When people visit Chicago, I like to think that they already know that we're big on neighborhoods. From the South Side's White Sox fans to the die-hard Cubs devotees in Wrigleyville and everywhere in between, you're sure to find a different vibe and lifestyle in every community.

The Loop is the center of it all, being the area that's surrounded by the 'L' tracks. It is the business district of Chicago: the neighborhood with all of the hustle, bustle, and skyscrapers that make Chicago one of the most renowned cities in the world. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Theater, Millennium Park, and Grant Park all call the Loop home.

photo by Carlita Kelly

There's really no shortage of things to do and finding the tourist attractions is easy-- they appear on every website, guide book, and are etched into the minds of every local you pass by. However, when living here, it's important to know the local favorites. From brunch to shopping to everyday lifestyle, here are some of the places in the Loop that I frequent.

photo by Carlita Kelly

Grab Coffee at Goddess & The Baker

Goddess & The Baker started out as just a cute deli (Goddess & The Grocer) in Bucktown. I was understandably happy when the first café opened in The Loop in 2015. Besides the fact that the venue itself is gorgeous, the second I walk in I'm tempted with the smell of coffee and dozens of pastries. I know I can't go wrong with any of them, but the rainbow cake with a whipped coffee frappe are my favorite items on the menu.

Brunch at Cindy's Rooftop

Starting a Saturday morning with brunch and mimosas at Cindy's is the perfect beginning to your weekend. Featuring both bar and couch seating that offer incredible views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, this rooftop has a specific "private lake house" vibe. Your mouth will water over the buttermilk pancakes and the Dutch apple pie. All you need to do is grab a few friends - Cindy's will take care of the rest.

photo by Brandon Olafsson

Break a Sweat SoulCycle

The good thing about being in a high-rise building is that most of them have a fitness center. There's never an excuse to ignore your health, but honestly, sometimes I get distracted and unmotivated working out by myself and I need some inspiration.

SoulCycle is my favorite group workout. It's not your typical spin class. Every aspect is treated with the utmost importance from the body's intent, to the music that gets your mind in the zone, to the vibes of the people around you. It's less about losing weight and more about clearing the mind of negativities and focusing on "finding your soul" -- even if only for 45 minutes.

Pamper Yourself at Cuticle

When I moved to The Loop, I made sure I knew where the closest grocery store, banks, and post office were located. I completely forgot about the (almost) equally important places for personal care like hair salons, eyebrow studios, and nail salons. Luckily, I found the best nail salon in town.

Cuticle is hidden behind the buildings on Upper Randolph. This tucked-away gem does the usual manicure and pedicure but goes above and beyond with additional complimentary services like scented foot baths, celebratory beverages, and massages during the manicure and pedicure. Without the astronomical prices that other salons charge for the same service, this salon pampers you like you deserve.

photoby Carlita Kelly

Shop at Block 37

The Magnificent Mile isn't the only place to shop in downtown Chicago. I tend to avoid the tourists and head over to Block 37 on State Street. Inside are all of my favorite shops like Zara, Anthropologie, and Sephora. I can satisfy my sweet tooth at the bakeries and candy stores, get lunch at Latinicity, or finish my shopping day with a movie at the dine-in AMC theater. Block 37 fulfills all of my shopping, eating, and entertainment needs.

There are so many great attractions in the Loop, I know I didn't list them all. Next time you're in the Loop, be sure to take a detour from your travel guide to visit at least one of these spots or even venture out and discover something new. I'd love to hear about your experience in The Loop, Find me on Instagram to share your Chicago updates!

 

Carlita Kelly is an MBA student and fashion blogger based in Chicago. She is the face and voice behind CarlitaKelly.com and has contributed to major publications like MTV and Seventeen. Make sure to also check out her Instagram!