7AM: Check into the Hotel Lincoln and start the morning with a walk, jog or bike ride along Lake Michigan. The Lakefront Trail stretches 29 kilometres along Chicago’s eastern side, offering gorgeous views of the lake, long green pastures, multiple harbours and beaches, and bucolic paths winding from north to south.

8 AM : Indulge in a world-class breakfast at Floriole Café & Bakery, the cosy French-inspired space run by couple Sarah and Matthew Holl, where the custardy quiches are made with thick, flaky crusts and the colorful pizzettas decorated with fresh ingredients such as squash blossoms and crème fraiche.

10 AM : Head through Streeterville to take wing at Navy Pier, home to an inspiring new attraction called Flyover. Part short film, part immersive thrill ride, it’s 100% a love letter to Chicago. The stunning aerial footage and pulsing soundtrack showcase the city’s people, music and architecture.

11 AM : Continue feeding your imagination inside the 21c Museum Hotel, the city’s only 24/7 art gallery. While primarily an upscale inn, it’s also an entrancing modern art studio — particularly the second floor, which is open to the public at all times.

12:30PM : Stroll through the Loop and cross the river for lunch at Publican Quality Meats, a modern butcher shop with a loyal lunch following. Enjoy handcrafted sausages and creative sandwiches in this Fulton Market shop, located in Chicago’s old meatpacking district.

2PM: While near the West Loop, browse limited-edition furniture from local designers at Morlen Sinoway Atelier. The interior design store also carries artisanal jewelry, ceramics and glassware in a tony space at Fulton Market.

3 PM : Get lit or get vinyl at Exile in Bookville, a hip indie bookstore-cum-record shop. This delightful gem, located on the second floor of the Fine Arts Building (a bonus for architecture fans), specializes in small-press novels. Or check out their record selection and play guest DJ.

6 PM : Relax with a soak or a scrub at Aire Ancient Baths, designed to transport its guests back in time. Move between pools of varying temps, guided by candlelight and the scent of orange blossom, and detox with a salt wrap and hot-stone massage.

8PM: Get your fill at Monteverde, the restaurant of chef Sarah Gruneberg, formerly at the legendary Spiaggia, which is no more. Her fresh, handmade pasta is available to take away, in case you can’t get a reservation. Otherwise, opt for the Cacio Whey Pepe with ricotta whey – the house’s signature dish.