11.08.2024 |
Living at Aqua Lakeshore East puts you in the heart of Chicago, where some of the city's best coffee spots are just a short walk away. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a true aficionado, this walking tour will take you through charming cafes, bustling neighborhoods, and scenic spots, all within a comfortable stroll from Aqua. Grab your favorite cup and let’s get started!
1. Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea
📍 200 N Michigan Ave
Walk: 10 minutes
Head west towards Michigan Avenue and stop by Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea. This spot is known for its unique concept of serving a variety of craft coffee brands all under one roof, so you can sample different roasts and blends. Try their nitro cold brew for a refreshing twist, or if you're a tea lover, their matcha drinks are also top-notch.
3. Intelligentsia Coffee - Millennium Park Coffeebar
📍 53 E Randolph St
Walk: 5 minutes
Next, take a pleasant stroll along the edge of Millennium Park to reach Intelligentsia. This iconic Chicago coffee roaster has become synonymous with quality and consistency. Grab a pour-over or a perfectly balanced flat white, and maybe take it to-go for a quick walk around the Cloud Gate ("The Bean") while you sip.
4. Dollop Coffee Co.
📍 343 S Dearborn St
Walk: 15 minutes
Head south through the Loop, and you’ll find Dollop Coffee Co., nestled in the historic Monadnock Building. Dollop is known for its cozy, inviting atmosphere and delicious house-made pastries. Their lavender latte is a favorite, especially for those who enjoy a hint of floral sweetness in their cup. This is a great place to relax and soak in some of the historic architecture around you.
5. Hero Coffee Bar
@herocoffee
📍 439 S Dearborn St (Alley Entrance)
Walk: 5 minutes
Continue down Dearborn Street and discover Hero Coffee Bar. Tucked away in a charming alley, this hidden gem has a cozy, welcoming vibe. Their signature drinks, like the salted caramel mocha, are a treat, and the courtyard seating gives you a quiet space to enjoy your drink and a quick snack.
6. The Goddess and the Baker
📍 33 S Wabash Ave
Walk: 10 minutes
After your visit to Hero, walk back up to The Goddess and the Baker, a trendy café that mixes chic style with delicious coffee. Known for their colorful layered cakes and vibrant interior, this is the perfect spot to end your coffee tour on a sweet note. Try a refreshing iced latte, or go for something more indulgent like their honey lavender latte.
7. Eggy’s Diner
📍 333 E Benton Pl
Walk: 12 minutes back to Aqua
Finish your tour by looping back towards Aqua, where you can stop at Eggy’s Diner for a little something to eat if you're feeling peckish. Grab a cappuccino and enjoy one of their hearty breakfast options while you unwind from your walk.
Tips for Your Coffee Tour
- Bring a Reusable Cup: Help the environment and keep your coffee warm for longer by bringing your own cup.
- Take a Scenic Route: Make sure to take advantage of the walking paths around Millennium Park and the Riverwalk to enjoy Chicago’s beautiful urban scenery.
- Stay Cozy: Chicago weather can be unpredictable, so consider bringing a light jacket or scarf, especially during cooler months.
This walking coffee tour is a fantastic way to explore the flavors, aromas, and neighborhoods that surround Aqua Lakeshore East. It’s an opportunity to see the city through a caffeinated lens, savoring each sip as you go. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your favorite reusable cup, and embark on a delicious journey through downtown Chicago!
