THE FULLEST Guide to Chicago
Emma Zwissler — the owner of The Sunday Standard — brings us this month’s THE FULLEST Guide to Chicago. The Sunday Standard is a clean skincare line and beauty store nestled in Chicago’s Logan Square. Chicago is also her forever home and to say she’s obsessed with it as a city is an understatement. So, we think she’s definitely the most qualified person to be giving us all the hidden gems of the Windy City. Her best tip? Skip the city center and venture into the neighborhoods for a taste of what it means to be a Chicagoan.
Stay
The Hoxton Hotel
The Hoxton Hotel is a great option for the creative traveler looking to be inspired. Located in the city’s up-and-coming Fulton Market District, this posh hotel features several on-site bars and restaurants (Chicago-legend Stephanie Izard hosts at Cabra, located on the rooftop of the Hoxton), and is nestled right in the middle of one of the city’s best restaurant scenes.
Longman & Eagle
Above neighborhood-favorite eatery Longman & Eagle is a small inn featuring six casual yet considered rooms. During your stay be sure to pop downstairs for a whiskey cocktail, and be sure to order their vegan french onion dip!
The Wicker Park Inn
The Wicker Park Inn is a boutique bed and breakfast in the heart of trendy Wicker Park — a neighborhood full of great restaurants, vintage and boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and nightlife. Situated in a historic home, the Wicker Park Inn offers nine luxurious guest rooms.
The Robey
The Robey, which occupies one of Wicker Park’s only skyscrapers, offers 180-degree views of the city skyline as well as a rooftop pool and cocktail lounge.
Eat
Logan Square Farmers Market
In the summer months, the Logan Square farmers market, located just east of the square on Logan Boulevard, can’t be beaten for local produce, fresh baked goods, and chill vibes. Go early and expect a crowd!
Left Coast
If you find yourself in Lakeview, Left Coast is a great spot for a quick and healthy meal — grab it to go or snag a seat on their sunny patio.
True Food Kitchen
True Food Kitchen is a favorite for a health-focused meal near the Mag Mile, and you’ll find plenty of organic, gluten-free, and vegan options on their menu to keep you fueled up for your day of shopping and sightseeing.
Wheat's End Cafe
For those seeking gluten-free options, Wheat’s End Cafe is a must-visit; their all-day cafe features a 100% gluten-free menu, with GF versions of some often hard-to-find favorites like Belgian waffles, popovers, and fried chicken.
Daisies
Daisies, located in Logan Square, is a personal favorite, with an always-delicious rotating menu filled with seasonal produce, inventive preparations, and fresh house-made pasta. They also utilize high-quality produce from @frillmanfarms in all their dishes.
Shop
The Sunday Standard
The Sunday Standard is an independent clean beauty and modern wellness boutique curated for the conscious consumer. Located in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, you’ll be able to browse clean skincare, fragrance, and health-forward pantry staples like THE FULLEST’s Warm Feelings™ saffron latte.
Gemini Shop
Gemini is a Wicker Park shop that offers both men’s and women’s apparel and accessories — a thoughtfully curated spot that’s great for both high-end, aesthetic basics, and quirky “it girl” designer finds that will elevate any wardrobe, from minimalist to maximalist.
Penelope's
While you’re over at Gemini Shop, pop next door to their sister shop, Penelope’s. Full of trendy, youthful pieces, and funky accessories to brighten your day but not weigh down your wallet.
Asrai Garden
Asrai Garden’s West Loop location is a magical stop, featuring stunning floral arrangements, luxurious fine jewelry, and curiosities ranging from skincare to handbags to candles.
Andale Market
For the foodies, Andale Market in Andersonville is a fun stop. At this self-proclaimed “bodega with swag,” you’ll find everything you need for a bougie picnic in the park.
Visit
Common Language
Located in Bucktown, Chicago, this fitness experience is one worth booking while in the city. Classes are designed with high-energy and dynamic motions while maintaining intentional, low-impact movement. It’s a fun, warm, move-your-body to the music atmosphere. Be sure to check out their lineup of wellness goodies — including our Warm Feelings™ saffron latte sachets and Exheal™ soothing saffron salt bath. Magnetic energy and a sweaty glow await!
Chicago’s Lakefront Trail
Our gorgeous lakefront is a must-see. Hit the beach, take a walk on the lakefront trail, or do as the locals do and bike to Belmont Harbor, where you can sit on the tiered concrete steps and take a refreshing swim.
The 606
Take a walk on The 606, an abandoned rail line on Chicago’s west side that was turned into a 2.7 mile multi-use recreational trail and city park.
Chicago's Garfield Park Conservatory
Chicago’s Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest and most stunning botanical conservatories in the nation — sometimes called “landscape art under glass,” the Conservatory showcases thousands of plant species and is a great place to pop in during the colder months, considering its near-tropical indoor climate control.
The Art Institute
Our city offers a ton of beautiful and interesting museums, but my favorite is the Art Institute — be sure to check out their special exhibitions, as there is always something interesting happening.
Chicago Architecture Center
Whether you’re visiting with friends or family, you’re sure to love the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s River Cruise, which offers a 90-minute tour of some of Chicago’s most famous and beautiful buildings, with a great view from the river that runs through the center of the city.