Chicago is a city with a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. From its world-renowned museums and stunning skyline, to its iconic food and rich cultural history, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City.
If you’re planning a trip to Chicago, it’s helpful to have a good travel guide or book to help you make the most of your time in the city. A good guide can provide valuable information on the best places to eat, the top attractions to visit, and insider tips on local culture. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which ones are worth your time and money.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best travel guides and books for Chicago. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these resources will help you plan the perfect trip and make the most of your time in the city. From discovering the city’s hidden gems to getting the inside scoop on local events and attractions, these guides and books have something for everyone. So get ready to explore the Windy City – with the help of our recommended travel resources, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip.
- All books have been handpicked by us!
- Books with bad reviews are left out.
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Fodor’s Chicago is the ultimate guidebook for anyone planning a trip to the Windy City. With carefully curated recommendations and an easy-to-read layout, this guidebook is packed with everything you need to make the most of your time in Chicago. From illustrated ultimate experiences and multiple itineraries to detailed maps and beautiful color photos, Fodor’s Chicago has it all. In addition to honest recommendations on the best sights, restaurants, and hotels, this guidebook also includes practical trip-planning tools and historical and cultural insights to help you get a deeper understanding of the city. Special features on topics like the lakefront, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Chicago then and now make this guidebook even more comprehensive. And with up-to-date coverage of neighborhoods like The Loop, Near North, and Lincoln Park, you’ll be sure to discover all that Chicago has to offer.
Lonely Planet’s Chicago Travel Guide is the perfect companion for anyone planning a trip to the Windy City. With up-to-date information on all the best sights, restaurants, and activities, this guidebook has everything you need to make the most of your time in Chicago. From insider tips on how to save time and money, to cultural insights and honest reviews for all budgets, Lonely Planet’s Chicago covers it all. With beautiful color maps and images throughout, you’ll be able to easily navigate the city and discover all it has to offer. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Loop or taking a trip to Navy Pier, this guidebook has you covered. And with over 42 maps and coverage of neighborhoods like Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, and Wrigleyville, you’ll be sure to find something for everyone. Keep in mind that this version of the guidebook is set to be released in January 2023.
Chicago Like a Local is the ultimate guidebook for anyone looking to discover the hidden gems and unique experiences that make the Windy City so special. Compiled by three proud locals, this book takes you beyond the usual tourist attractions and into the small businesses and community strongholds that give Chicago its character. With six themed walking tours dedicated to specific experiences like record stores and dive bars, and helpful “what3word” addresses to help you pinpoint all the listed sights, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to explore the city like a true local. Whether you’re a restless Chicagoan on the hunt for a new hangout or a visitor eager to discover the city’s hidden secrets, Chicago Like a Local has something for everyone. This stylish and giftable travel guide is a must-have for anyone seeking to truly experience all that Chicago has to offer.
Walking Chicago is the perfect guidebook for anyone looking to explore the Windy City on foot. With 35 self-guided tours through the city’s most vibrant and historic neighborhoods, this book is packed with everything you need to discover the city’s unique culture and history. From ethnic neighborhoods like Little Italy and Greektown, to high culture at the Art Institute and blues on the South Side, this guidebook has something for everyone. And with more than 20 miles of stunning shoreline along Lake Michigan, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to discover. With fun facts, surprising stories, and tips on the best cafes, bars, and night spots, Walking Chicago is the ultimate companion for anyone looking to take an urban adventure through the Windy City. So grab your walking shoes and get ready to discover all that Chicago has to offer.
The Not For Tourists Guide to Chicago is the ultimate map-based guidebook for anyone looking to explore the Windy City. With 60 mapping neighborhoods, this book is packed with user-friendly NFT icons that plot the nearest essential services and entertainment locations, making it easy to find the best deep-dish pizza hideouts, sports attractions, beaches, jazz clubs, coffee shops, and more. Designed to lighten the load of locals, commuters, business travelers, and tourists alike, this book features sections on the North Side, Near North Side, Near West Side, the Greater Loop, the South Side, and Greater Chicago, as well as more than 150 neighborhood and city maps. And with a foldout highway map included, it’s the only key to Chicago that you’ll need. So whether you’re a street-savvy local or a first-time visitor, the Not For Tourists Guide to Chicago has something for everyone.
By reading up on history of our travel destinations we can better understand the behaviour of those living in the places that we visit. Every place that we visit has its own unique history. Hawaii has a long and rich history. Although the islands’ history is too extensive to cover in a single book, this book does a good job in summarizing centuries of history in an easy to read accessable book.
Chicago Food Crawls is the perfect guidebook for anyone looking to explore the city’s culinary scene. With more than 13 crawls featuring 3-8 establishments in each, this book takes you on a tasty tour of the Windy City’s hidden gems and long-standing institutions. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out, a new way to experience your own city, or simply some food porn and great stories to enjoy from home, this book has something for everyone. Each crawl is centered on a neighborhood or theme, making it easy to discover all that Chicago has to offer. So if you’re a foodie looking to experience the best that the city has to offer, Chicago Food Crawls is the perfect guidebook for you.
The Kid’s Guide to Chicago is the perfect guidebook for families looking to explore the Windy City. With kid-tested tips on where to go, where to eat, what to see, and where to find the best souvenirs, this book is packed with everything you need to plan your trip. Along the way, kids will be engaged by reading and sharing fun facts and cool travel tips, while awesome games and quizzes keep the whole family entertained. Whether you’re visiting the city or are a local looking for new things to do, the Kid’s Guide to Chicago is a must-have for any family looking to make the most of their trip.
