April 06, 2026
The newcube Chicago Guide
Article by Natalie
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Nothing quite beats springtime in Chicago. Like the rest of the Midwest, Chicago is a truly humble city, which is why Expo helps bring out its charm. Chicago is a place for foodies, the culturally curious, and people who just enjoy easy living and a sunny day above fifty degrees.
Chicago is no stranger to the iconic. With institutions like the Art Institute being featured in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and some of its most famous architecture directly linked to the World’s Fair, Expo’s positioning at Navy Pier allows it to seamlessly blend into the city. Expo doesn’t try to change the city; it gives it a moment to show off and amplifies what’s already there: Chicago’s thoughtful, deeply rooted art and design community that simply speaks for itself.
See the guide below, created by newcube team member and Chicago native, Natalie, to experience a true local’s guide.
SEE
Chicago’s strong commitment to making art accessible, investing in education, and supporting community-led initiatives is why so many of today’s most well-regarded artists, such as Kerry James Marshall, Rashid Johnson, Candida Alvarez, and Nick Cave, are proud to call it home.
With public murals from Kerry James Marshall, to educational initiatives such as Theaster Gates’ Rebuild Foundation and public spaces like the Obama Presidential Library (boasting a 70 foot tall stained glass window by Julie Mehretu) soon to open in June, my favorite thing about Chicago is the sense of pride Chicagoans have and their dedication to continuously improve the city through acts of service, both small and large. But of course, if you are trying to pack it all in over the weekend, the list below is a good place to start:
Millennium Park: It’s no secret Chicago holds some of the country’s most iconic public art installations, from the lakefront’s towering Keith Haring sculpture to Calder’s giant Flamingo and Picasso’s Sculpture at Daley Plaza. But of course, Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate, better known as “The Bean”, remains the city’s most recognizable landmark, drawing visitors to walk around (and under) its mirrored surface. Head to the park not only for Kapoor’s work, but also for the sweeping pavilion designed by Frank Gehry amongst many other examples of what good public art looks like.
Art Institute of Chicago: My personal favorite since childhood: the Thorne Miniature Rooms, an intimate showcase of design throughout the ages on a 1:12 scale.
EAT & DRINK
The food scene in Chicago is not something locals take lightly here. I mean, it’s sacrilegious to eat a hot dog with ketchup on it for crying out loud. With three chefs nominated for the James Beard Award, announced just last week, Chicago is home to some of the world’s best food from greasy no-frill hole in the walls, to world renowned Michelin star restaurants.
Athenian Room – I’m almost tempted not to share this one because it’s that good. A true neighborhood spot, the Athenian Room is as unfussy as it gets. It’s cozy, unassuming, and cash-only. Go for the Kalamata chicken or the steak with thick-cut fries doused in lemony oil.
Mr. Beef – Skip the deep dish and go here for your quintessential ‘Chicago’ experience. Known as the filming location for The Bear, Mr. Beef captures the city’s honest, rough around the edges, and hearty personality.
SHOP
I hope this list is only the start of your love story with Chicago and helps give a glimpse into why I am proud to call it home. If you are at the Expo and looking for expert guidance, get in touch with newcube!
