MF City: Chicago
Your guide to the Windy City's best gyms, healthiest food, and coolest clubs
by Ariane Marder
| Print Page | Email to Friend
WORKING OUT
OUTDOORS
North Avenue Beach
N. Lake Shore Drive at North Avenue
With stunning views of the city skyline and lakeshore, Chicago's busiest beach boasts an ideal backdrop for a workout. There's a bike path, sand volleyball, a beach-hockey rink, even a Crunch mini-gym where you can blast your lats while ogling the babes on blades. Forgot your gear? Grab whatever you need at a nearby beach house.
GYM
Fitness Formula Clubs Union Station
444 W. Jackson Blvd. 312-627-0444
This sprawling club and spa promises full service. When you're done lifting, compete in a friendly pickup game or work on your stroke in the Junior Olympic-size pool ($30 for a 24-hour pass).
HOTEL GYM
Embassy Suites Lakefront
511 N. Columbus Dr. 888-903-8884
This swank hotel spares no expense anywhere. The state-of-the-art fitness center, just blocks from Lake Michigan, is open round-the-clock. Among the recent additions: Precor machines and an indoor lap pool.
GOING OUT
EATS
Powerhouse Restaurant and Bar
215 N. Clinton St. 312-928-0800
Renowned Chi-Town chef Jeff Mauro serves up a seasonal menu of tasty New American cuisine.
Trattoria No. 10
10 N. Dearborn St. 312-984-1718
The standout pasta endears this restaurant to locals. Good food and affordable wine always make for an ideal power lunch.
AFTERPARTY
Rockit Bar and Grill
22 W. Hubbard St. 312-645-6000
Rock fans come for the music, pool sharks love the custom tables, and everyone hits up Rockit for its laid-back vibe.
Vertigo
2 W. Erie St. 312-202-6060
Located on the 26th floor of the Dana Hotel, this lounge is known for its pretty young things.
