Chicago is big enough that it can constantly surprise you. Step off your beaten path and you can find a new favorite restaurant, coffee shop, or bookstore. The city’s patchwork of neighborhoods can make you feel like you’re discovering an entirely new place. If you want to take a break for your routine, plan a mini trip within your own city. These five neighborhoods offer the curious Chicagoan plenty of reasons to try out a staycation, whether you find the word silly or not.

See the City through a Tourist’s Eyes in the Loop

Art Institute of Chicago photo by Shutterstock

After you’ve lived in a city for a while, you become accustomed to its beauty—it’s the backdrop of your everyday life. The Loop is the city’s central business district, so a lot of people on the street are hurrying to their offices and lunch meetings, not bothering to look around. But the Loop attracts throngs of tourists from around the world. Step into their shoes for your Chicago getaway to experience the city with a fresh perspective. 

Start your touristy adventure with a visit to Millennium Park. Take a selfie with the Bean—we won’t judge. If you’re taking a winter trip, go ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. If you’re staycationing in warmer weather, catch live music or a movie at Pritzker Pavilion. See world-famous art right next door to the park at the Art Institute of Chicago. Do dinner and a show in the Loop’s Theatre District. Or if you’re one of those people who hardly glances up at buildings downtown, take an architecture tour on the Chicago River to gain a greater appreciation for the beauty of your city.

Go on a Shopping Spree in Andersonville

Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago

Vacation and shopping are synonymous for a lot of people. If you don’t want to come home from your staycation empty-handed, consider making Andersonville your destination. This North Side neighborhood is an enclave of independent small businesses. Get your vintage fix at places like Andersonville Antiques and Brownstone Antiques. Or beef up your wardrobe with clothing from Milk Handmade and The T-Shirt Deli. When you need a break from carrying your shopping haul, the neighborhood has plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat.

Find the Music in Pilsen

Thalia Hall photo courtesy of edward stojakovic

Lower West Side neighborhood Pilsen is the getaway spot for anyone who lives and breathes for music. Plan your staycation to coincide with a show at Thalia Hall, an oh-so-hip music venue. During the day, you can sate your musical appetite at the neighborhood’s record shops. 606 Records, Pinwheel Records, and Shady Rest Vintage & Vinyl, all within walking distance of one another, form a kind of “Record Row.” And you can pair your tunes with tacos [https://www.neighborhoods.com/blog/your-tasting-guide-to-pilsens-best-taco-spots]. This neighborhood has some of the best in the city—although which restaurant actually has the most delicious tacos is up for debate. Try out a few to make an informed opinion.

Eat Out in Greektown

Artopolis Bakery, Cafe and Agora in Greektown

Foodies looking for a Chicago staycation spot will find plenty to love in Greektown. Indulge in seafood at Santorini, or linger over pastries and coffee at Artopolis Bakery, Cafe and Agora. If you want to stay out late, get a table at 9 Muses, which stays open until 2 a.m. every night of the week and 3 a.m. on Saturdays. After eating, expand your knowledge of Greek culture beyond the dinner table at the National Hellenic Museum.

Explore the Culture of Hyde Park

Museum of Science and Industry photo by shutterstock

Hyde Park has a lot to attract staycationers. The neighborhood is one of three, along with Washington Park and Woodlawn, which hosts the city’s Museum Campus South. See the Museum of Science and Industry, the DuSable Museum of African American History, and the Oriental Institute Museum. Plus, you walk through the picturesque University of Chicago campus. If you want to spend some of your time off outdoors, the neighborhood is right on the lake with access to two sprawling parks. Walk along the lagoons of Jackson Park or around Bynum Island in Washington Park.

You can even stay in the neighborhood during your staycation. Boutique hotel Sophy Hyde Park recently opened.  The hotel has 98 rooms and its own restaurant, bar, and lounge Mesler.