A Chicago namesake. Within walking distance of the OLC

Mama Giordano was famous in Torino, Italy for her exquisite cooking. Of all her renowned dishes, her most beloved meal was her “Italian Easter Pie”. Mama Giordano would serve this double- crusted, cheese stuffed masterpiece on special occasions. Years later, Italian immigrants Efren and Joseph Boglio moved to Chicago to start their own pizza business. In 1974, on Chicago’s historic south side, Efren and Joseph introduced their Mama’s recipe for stuffed pizza and opened the first Giordano’s in the world. The rest is history you can still taste today, along with our other great starters, fresh salads, outstanding pastas and unique sandwiches.

Less than two miles away from the OLC.

Rosemont’s Parkway Bank Park entertainment district is a 200,000 square-foot complex home to 15 dining and entertainment venues offering upscale international cuisine, live music and comedy, state-of-the-art film, indoor skydiving, bowling and more. The venues surround a great lawn that plays host to a variety of seasonal events including concerts, festivals and a winter ice rink.

Chicago public transit is very accessible from the OLC. You can walk 10 minutes or take a quick bus ride to the Rosemont Transit Center/Rosemont stop on the Blue Line. From there you can get downtown in about 40 minutes. Paying for the train is simple. If you have a credit card set up on your mobile device, you can tap it on the entry kiosk to pay the $2.50 fare.

A local favorite! Just steps from many museums and the iconic Bean, Millennium Park Summer Music Series features a wide variety of music from established and emerging artists at the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion. This free event takes place on Monday and Thursday evenings in the summertime. Check out the 2024 lineup below.

Navy Pier is where you go in Chicago for events, free public programs, attractions, culture, dining, shopping and more. It’s where fun lives large, whether you’re a visitor or local, with family or friends.

Navy Pier is proud to offer a diverse variety of exciting events and public programs year-round. Our extensive event calendar features something for everyone, from free fireworks displays throughout the year to live music, theater, art exhibits, dance performances, cultural celebrations, lake cruises and kids’ activities.

The Chicago Architecture Center provides some of the best rated tours in the city. Their expert docents will guide you by boat, bus, train or on foot and share the stories behind the buildings.

The CAC River Cruise Aboard Chicago's First Lady has been voted #1 boat tour in the United States by USA Today readers in 2024, as well as Chicago Reader's Best Tour for over 10 years!