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Things to do in the West Loop

Explore the West Loop with our guide to the neighborhood's best restaurants, bars, shops and things to do

Photograph: Colin Beckett
By Zach Long |
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Over the last 10 years, the West Loop has morphed into one of the most happening neighborhoods in town—and it's easy to see why. The former industrial area is brimming with top restaurants and bars, stunning loft apartments and boutique hotels for out-of-towners. The epicenter of the 'hood is “Restaurant Row,” a concentration of excellent eateries along Randolph Street and Fulton Market. It's here that visitors can find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to a fried chicken joint to a hidden ramen shop. Beyond it’s collection of culinary gems, the West Loop is also home to unique shops, cool attractions and so much more. Check out the best of the neighborhood with our comprehensive guide to the West Loop.

The best restaurants in the West Loop
Restaurants

The best restaurants in the West Loop

Once strictly an industrial area, the West Loop has been transformed into Chicago's hottest dining hood.

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The best bars in the West Loop
Bars

The best bars in the West Loop

Try molecular gastronomy cocktail bars and sit down at several awesome beer bars

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The best attractions and things to do in the West Loop
Attractions

The best attractions and things to do in the West Loop

Explore the many terrific art galleries and find plenty of things to keep you busy in the West Loop

The best shops in the West Loop
Shopping

The best shops in the West Loop

Fine men's suits, chic women's dresses, home decor, running products and more— be prepared to drop some dough while you're downtown.

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Cheap eats in the West Loop
Restaurants

Cheap eats in the West Loop

The West Loop boasts some of the best Chicago restaurants, but eating there doesn't have to cost a fortune.

West Loop residents tell us their favorite neighborhood spots
Things to do

West Loop residents tell us their favorite neighborhood spots

Anyone who lives in the West Loop knows that the neighborhood absolutely rules.

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