Cuisine: Chi-town is legendary for it’s eateries with a world-class selection ranging from fine dining to individual venders. Kuma’s Corner has some of the city’s best burgers, and for BBQ that your backyard gril could only dream of make sure to check out Smoque.

Hot Doug’s is THE place for fine encased meats (that’s hot dogs and sausages mostly, for those not in the know) in the Windy City, and Doug has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, USA Today, Bon Appetit, The Chicago Tribune, The Sun Times, Time Out Chicago as well as many others.

Bars: After a nights out eating some of the best meals you’ll ever have head out to the lively Chicago nightlife. With a rich sports history Chicago watering holes are some of the best in the nation! Loin Head Pub is a local favorite, and if you’re in Wrigleyville then you can’t go wrong at any of the spots along Clark St.

Attractions: Become familiar with the cities rich architectural history while on the 75 minute Shoreline Sightseeing Cruise. Via their website,

This dramatic, nighttime cruise takes you down all three branches of the historic Chicago River for a glittering view of our city’s iconic skyscrapers. The evening ends with an up-close view of Navy Pier’s spectacular fireworks from the mouth of the Chicago River.

There is also a cash bar on board so there’s no excuse not to have a good time out on the water. Take your significant other because the mix of beautiful sights, fireworks, and a soothing ride makes for a fantastic date-night.

This must-attend music festival is three days long and has eight stages hosting a line up of 124 bands including such headliners as The Strokes, Lady Gaga, Phoenix and Green Day. Don’t be discouraged if these are not your favorite musicians, the lineup also includes R&B artists Erykah Badu and Rapheal Saadiq, as well as Reggae artist Jimmy Cliff and veteran acts such as Social Distortion, Devo and Mavis Staples. The vast majority of music at this festival is guitar-based rock and electronic, but the festival will feature a DJ stage showcasing the most influential DJs from all around the globe, such as 2ManyDJs,  the Belgian mash-up masters.

As if seeing your favorite bands perform all in one venue isn’t good enough, you can go to the F.Y.E. Autograph Booth to meet some of the bands and get your hands on their latest CD’s and vinyl. Also on display will be two new works of art from local artist John E. Bannon.  His life-sized mirrored man hovering over Butler Field appropriately titled, “Universe,” will be there for your viewing pleasure. The Adidas Originals Van will also be there so you can check out the latest products and even designs by your favorite Lollapalooza artists. You may even enter to win a chance to design your own shoe.

Now, most importantly, where are you going to stay and what are you going to eat? If you want somewhere nice to stay check out the Hard Rock Hotel on Michigan Avenue, or the Sax Chicago on Dearborn. Both of these hotels offer the finest amenities and are fairly close to Grant Park. If you want to save some money you should check out some of the local hostels. The Hostelling International Chicago has cheap rates and easy access to the bus terminal and train station to make getting to Lollapalooza easy.

What is there to eat? Only some of the best food you’ll ever have in your life. Lollapalooza is offering up its Chow-Town menu featuring options from some of Chicago’s favorite restaurants. You can indulge in everything from tacos and tamales to jumbo hot dogs and Pad Thai noodles. Anything that you might crave will be there for your indulgence. You can savor every bite knowing that all items being served are on eco-friendly plates and cups in the festivals collective effort to help keep our environment clean and safe.

Grab your tickets and book your room because this is a must-see festival!