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Chicago

Hero Coffee is located in a private Chicago alley
Chicago, Culture, Secret Spot

Secret Spot: A Hidden Coffee Shop in Chicago’s Loop

by Jessica Mlinaric / January 30, 2018January 17, 2025

This little-known coffee shop is located inside a slice of Chicago history.

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Order of Elks domed rotunda ceiling in Chicago
Architecture, Chicago, Culture

Inside Chicago’s Stunning Architecture

by Jessica Mlinaric / November 21, 2017March 3, 2018

Open House Chicago lets you peek inside Chicago’s most distinctive buildings. The annual two-day festival offers free access to over 200 locations.

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Image of fans at Pitchfork Music Festival 2017
Chicago, Culture, Music

Pitchfork Music Festival 2017 Highlights

by Jessica Mlinaric / July 19, 2017January 7, 2025

Explore Chicago’s favorite weekend with your favorite bands, new artists, and festival fashion.

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Photo of afternoon tea treats at the Drake Hotel
Chicago, Culture

10 Tips for Afternoon Tea Etiquette

by Jessica Mlinaric / April 6, 2017January 6, 2025

Whether you’re at the Ritz or a country tea room, keep these tips in mind at your next tea party.

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Image of the clock tower in Ravenswood
Chicago, Culture, Travel Guide

Ravenswood Neighborhood Guide

by Jessica Mlinaric / February 14, 2017January 6, 2025

Ravenswood is leafy, tranquil neighborhood on Chicago’s North Side, but don’t mistake it for boring.

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Muslim women rally at the Women's March in Chicago
Chicago, Culture

Women’s March Photos Featured by Wirehouse Co.

by Jessica Mlinaric / February 7, 2017February 14, 2017

I snapped a few photos capturing the energy of the Chicago Women’s March on January 21.

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View of downtown Chicago at sunrise
Architecture, Chicago, Culture

Capturing Chicago’s Sunrise from 360 Chicago

by Jessica Mlinaric / December 29, 2016February 7, 2017

To celebrate the shortest day of the year, 360 Chicago hosted an Instameet in its in the 94th-floor observatory.

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Photo of a shared room at Chicago's Hollander hostel
Architecture, Chicago

Room Key: The Hollander Chicago

by Jessica Mlinaric / December 27, 2016January 12, 2025

The Hollander offers an upscale hostel experience with a social emphasis.

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Photo of a guest room at the Robey hotel in Chicago
Architecture, Chicago

Room Key: The Robey Chicago

by Jessica Mlinaric / December 21, 2016January 12, 2025

Enjoy minimal, elegant design in the heart of Chicago’s bustling Wicker Park neighborhood.

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Photo of Roisin Murphy performing at Chicago's Double Door
Chicago, Culture, Music

Roisin Murphy’s Many Faces at Double Door

by Jessica Mlinaric / November 15, 2016January 7, 2025

The avant-garde Irish pop star thrilled Chicago fans during her sold out show at the Double Door.

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About Me

Urban Explorer is a travel blog highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems to inspire curious travelers by Jessica Mlinaric, author of 'Secret Chicago' and 'Chicago Scavenger.'
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Chicago Scavenger book by Jessica Mlinaric
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