Chicago: Sleep, Eat & Drink Art

Chicago's 227 square miles may seem daunting, but when you start to explore the unique neighborhoods block by block, you'll discover that "nice" should never be underestimated. Giving New York, Miami and Los Angeles a run for its money, Chicago's "Second City" moniker may be best left as a historical reference. This town is here to stay.

The Langham Chicago and Travelle
Declared a Chicago landmark in 2008, the Langham Chicago occupies the first 13 floors of the Mies van der Rohe-designed skyscraper and draws upon the luxurious service and attention to detail established by the Langham, London in 1865. Request a room with river views and be sure to block out some time to experience Chuan Spa, an urban sanctuary where you can opt for an herbal sauna, Himalayan salt stone sauna, aromatherapy shower and an array of holistic treatments.

Within the hotel, Executive Chef Tim Graham oversees Travelle, a sprawling 9,000-square-foot epicurean and mixologist's delight. "I've always been intrigued by the notion that Mediterranean cuisine can truly be inspired by the 21 distinct countries that border the sea," says Graham. "With Travelle, I want our diners to experience a culinary journey that offers exciting ports of call."

Global influences combine with local ingredients to produce tantalizing dishes such as squid ink pasta with lobster sauces and charred tomatoes, "seacuterie" - Graham's whimsical take on charcuterie - and pita balloons, a conversation starter served with muhammara pepper dip. Artisan cocktails include the 1865 (named after the original Langham), an alluring combination of Courvoisier, Champagne and elderflower liqueur. Or choose to imbibe from the "Madhattan" bar cart service.

Hotel Palomar Chicago

For an art gallery tour without leaving the lobby, consider Hotel Palomar, which partners with curators from Revolving Collections Gallery for Sleeping with the Artist. The program showcases artwork from emerging local artists, rotates throughout the year and plays upon the property's "Art in Motion" theme and the art-centric River North neighborhood - home to the highest concentration of art galleries in the United States outside of Manhattan.

Artists on display through early fall include local street artist FRESH, Doug Fogelson's photography manipulations and fine art photographer Ryan Ewart.

Fulton Market Kitchen

Conceptualized and co-designed by Daniel Alonso, Fulton Market Kitchen opened this spring, combining street art, visual installations and an eclectic food and beverage program for an immersive dining experience.

"Fulton Market Kitchen offers guests the rare opportunity to enjoy dining, drinking and the work of incredible artists in a single, truly unique setting," says Alonso, who drew inspiration in part from the Wynwood Walls in Miami and other urban art. "We are striving to become a highly artist-friendly and collaborative channel for the vibrant local art community to work together to exhibit, educate and sell their work."

Dusek's Board & Beer, Punch House and Thalia Hall

For the ultimate intersection of art, entertainment and gastronomic indulgence, this trifecta pays homage to John Dusek, who commissioned the structure in 1892. Reestablished in 2013, the building offers something for everyone and a little bit more. Dusek's Board & Beer features a menu designed by Michelin-starred chef Jared Wentworth and beer list curated by Cicerone Will Duncan. The bohemian vibe has neighborhood spirit with an elevated approach to the menu.

Next door you'll find Thalia Hall, an entertainment venue modeled after Prague's opera house. Closed to the public since the 1960s, its restoration brings new vitality to the area with diverse programming including World Music Festival (September 18) and Isabella Rossellini presenting "Green Porno," her collection of short films (October 3).

Punch House, located in Thalia Hall's basement, reimagines the communal beverage first brought to the West by British merchant sailors. Offering classic and contemporary versions, it embodies everything that is Chicago - past, present and a nod toward the future.