This time, Chicago was the first stop on my three-week journey through the United States. I stayed in a hotel near Michigan Avenue, the famous boulevard that is also home to the Magnificent Mile, the city's premier shopping district. Thanks to this central location, many of Chicago's attractions, restaurants and shops were easily accessible on foot. Chicago also feels like a city designed for walking. The area surrounding the river forms the beating heart of the city, making it easy to find your way around after just a day of exploring.

After checking out the hotel, including a beautiful rooftop overlooking the skyline, it was time for one of my favourite activities whenever I travel to the United States: shopping. Sephora, Anthropologie, Aritzia and Nordstrom were naturally on the list. But honestly? Trader Joe's and Whole Foods once again proved to be the biggest attraction. I can easily spend hours wandering through aisles filled with products that simply don't exist back home. Since my suitcases still had three weeks of travel ahead of them, I showed some restraint and focused on making a list of everything I wanted to bring back to Belgium later in the trip. Trader Joe's in Belgium? A traveller can dream.

The Best Skyline Views from the Water

If I had to recommend just one activity in Chicago, it would undoubtedly be an architecture cruise on the Chicago River. The experience quickly reveals why Chicago is considered one of the world's most important architectural cities. As you glide between the skyscrapers, knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the city's history and the architects who shaped its world-famous skyline.

I was lucky enough to take the cruise on the sunniest day of my stay. With clear blue skies overhead and the buildings reflected in the water below, it was without question one of the highlights of the trip.

Coffee, Cookies and Iconic Restaurants

Food lovers will feel right at home in Chicago. The massive Starbucks Reserve Roastery on Michigan Avenue is an experience in itself. Spread across multiple floors, it offers exclusive coffees, bakery treats and unique drinks you won't find anywhere else.

Then came an unexpected surprise. For years, I had been convinced that Levain Bakery only existed in New York. During a stroll through Chicago, I was delighted to discover that the famous bakery also has a location here. Their legendary cookies are just as addictive as the originals.

For an authentic taste of Chicago, Portillo's is a must. Their famous Chicago-style hot dog is a local classic that deserves a spot on every visitor's list.

Of course, Chicago is equally famous for its deep-dish pizza. At Lou Malnati's, you'll receive something that resembles a generously filled savoury pie more than a traditional pizza. Thick, indulgent and packed with flavour, it's the ultimate comfort food. Reservations are highly recommended.

Another institution is Giordano's, a local favourite where residents and visitors have been lining up for decades for their signature deep-dish pizza. Debating who serves the best pizza in Chicago almost feels like a religion here.

Those looking for a classic American diner experience should also visit The Original Billy Goat Tavern. Made famous by Saturday Night Live, this iconic spot beneath Michigan Avenue still captures the spirit of old Chicago.

The Beginning of Route 66

Did you know that Chicago is also the official starting point of the legendary Route 66? On Adams Street, you'll find the well-known sign marking the beginning of the iconic journey towards California.

For me, this location held even greater significance because later in my trip I drove part of Route 66 myself. From Las Vegas, I travelled towards Santa Monica, the historic route's endpoint on the Pacific Ocean. Although I didn't drive the entire route, there was something special about standing at both the starting point in Chicago and the finish line at the Santa Monica Pier during the same journey.