Recently I visited the Windy City and absolutely fell in love with it. While visiting I was going off the suggestions of friends, family, and travel bloggers. While their opinions were deeply appreciated, I ended up finding my own way and my own favorites. Some basic info, I stayed in the Swissotel on East Wacker Dr. so most of the restaurants that I'm going to suggest are centered around this location.

1. I highly suggest staying at the Swissotel.

I'm not just saying this because it's where I stayed. The hotel itself is built in the shape of a triangle and its uniqueness makes it very easy to find if you get lost. Any room you get has incredible views and if you are lucky you will get a room on the side with a view of Navy Pier (I was able to watch the Saturday night fireworks from the comfort of my room). It's on E Wacker St. so it's a central location with easy accessibility to all the general sights and within walking distance of a train station on the loop.

2. If you're looking for a cheap but tasty lunch I highly suggest Sopraffina's.

It's also really easy to get there too! If you wanna feel like an authentic Gallagher, you can take the "L", pink line, to the Kedzie stop and from there it's only about 3 blocks down. The owner is really nice but ask's for a $5 "donation" to take pictures on the porch.

You can also walk around to the back of the house to see the broke down van. There's a security guard there and if you talk to him he'll tell you the next time they're filming. Google maps is a good asset for this activity.

5. Speaking of the "L", use it!

A 24-hour pass is only $10 and its unlimited rides for those 24 hours. It's cheaper in the long run and even though it includes more walking it provides more chances to see the little things Chicago has to offer like sculptures and murals.

6. If you are able to eat at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe, do it.

Most of the time the wait is absurd but if you happen to catch it when there's a 45 minute or shorter take it because it is so worth it. Its right on Randolph St. across from Millennium Park so definitely check it out.

7. Around the corner from Wildberry is a heaven sent masterpiece, Giordano's.

If you are looking for a deep dish that looks so good you wanna shove your face in it this is the place. Every bite is like a little bit of Chicago. If you're not interested in pizza, they make a mean Chicken Parmesan. The address is 130 E Randolph St. and it's right across the street from Millennium Park.

8. The Navy Pier is a must as is the Centennial Wheel.

The views from the wheel are absolutely breathtaking so bring a camera. While on the Navy Pier I greatly encourage you to try the OG Rainbow Cone. The shack is almost hidden in between two yacht ticket booths so keep a sharp eye out for it.

9. For a nice dinner thats not to hard on the wallet, go to the Grand Lux Cafe.

It's on Michigan Ave. (yes the mile long shopping strip) so it's relatively easy to find and while you wait for your table you can snag a cookie from their bakery. I had the burger and it was absolutely delicious but the pastas are also fantastic.

10. While shopping on Michigan Street, take the time to stop at Dylan's Candy Bar.

There's a small container that you can fill up with goodies for only $10 and it makes a nice souvenir. If you are of legal drinking age the store makes alcoholic drinks just for that special sweet tooth.

11. Although it's a little farther away from downtown, Ann Sather Cafe is a must for any cinnamon roll lover.

You get two large cinnamon rolls with ever meal and they are absolutely drool worthy. Their omelets are also fantastic. The cafe is located on broadway street and really close to the beach.

12. The Skydeck in Willis Tower hold the most incredible view.

It's the #1 tourist stop and everyone should do it at least once even if you are afraid of heights.

13. Eating crab legs at the Angry Crab is not just going to dinner, it's a whole experience.

When you first walk in the door you may notice that each table has a roll of paper towels on it, that should be your first clue that sh*t is about to go down! The hostess will take you to your table and before you can even sit down, lays a giant sheet of white paper over the table. Once your order of crab legs is ready, I kid you not, they bring them out in a bad full of butter. I promise your life will be changed.

14. Next to the Angry Crab is this little Thai place called A Bite of Szechuan and they have rolled ice cream!

All those videos on Instagram of ice cream being rolled into logs and you finally get to have some right after dinner!