Discovering Chicago: Morning River Walk and Barrel Run Adventure

Morning Bliss: Chicago River Walk

Chicago, with its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere, offers some of the best urban experiences you can imagine. Today’s adventure began with a serene morning walk along the Chicago River. As the sun rose, it cast a golden light on the unique buildings that line the river, each with its own story and charm. Unlike New York, Chicago's architectural variety made the scene feel both historic and modern simultaneously and it feels a lot more open than New York. We followed the walk through the city and then out to the Lake, admiring the boats and super yachts all moored up.

Afternoon Delight: Breweries on the Barrel Run

After soaking in the city's beauty along the river, it was time to transition to an equally exciting part of the day: the Barrel Run! Chicago's brewery scene is becoming legendary, and this brewery tour is the perfect way to experience it. We joined the tour with a group of fun-loving people from all over the world (only 2 others from the UK) and embarked on an afternoon filled with delicious brews and good company. Each stop on the Barrel Run brought a new flavour and a new story, and just a little bit more merriment each time. We were also offered purchases to drink between stops.

After seeing lots of Pearl Jam tee-shirts we found out they are playing some shows in town as almost all of our fellow Barrel Run participants were in town for Pearl Jam. A couple from Manchester here to see them twice, a group of farmers from Brazil at a convention on farming equipment in Idaho taking a detour for Pearl Jam, a retired couple from Michegan also here for a Pearl Jam.

We managed to find our way back to the hotel after all this for a good nights sleep. All in all, our day in Chicago was filled with delightful contrasts: the peaceful morning river walk, the awe-inspiring architecture, and the lively afternoon brewery tour. It’s a city that offers something for everyone, and we can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.