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This is where I keep track of the places that make a layover worth leaving the hotel for — from favorite restaurants and coffee shops to hidden gems, things to do, and places I’m still hoping to explore. Some are tried-and-true spots I’ve personally visited, while others are on my ever-growing list for a future layover.

Click on the pins to open Google Maps location

Crew Recommendation

Attractions

Holy Grounds at St. Paul Catholic Church

A welcoming, community-centric church café lounge serving premium artisan espresso drinks and fresh local baked goods.

Visited

Bars & Breweries, Landmarks, Lunch & Dinner

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

Ask a Chicago local where to get deep dish and you'll likely hear Lou Malnati's. The buttery crust and rich layers make it a hometown favorite for a reason.

Visited

Attractions, Bars & Breweries, Landmarks, Lunch & Dinner, Outdoors, Shopping, Tours

The Chicago Riverwalk

As a Chicago native, this is one of my favorite summer spots in the city. Restaurants, bars, boat tours, and waterfront views stretch for miles through downtown.

Visited

Bars & Breweries, Lunch & Dinner

Charleston Crab House

A solid seafood spot with classic dishes and friendly service. I filled up at the bar with a seafood fettuccine alfredo.

Visited

Bars & Breweries, Lunch & Dinner

King Claw

This spot introduced me to the magic of seafood boils served in a bag. The crab legs were incredible, and the smell alone will have you planning your next visit before you leave.

Visited

Bars & Breweries

Republic Garden & Lounge

If you love floral decor, picture-perfect cocktails, and a stylish crowd, this is your place. Every corner feels designed for a photo opportunity.

Local Approved

Breakfast & Brunch, Coffee, Landmarks, Lunch & Dinner, Shopping, Snacks & Desserts

5th Street Arcades

A stunningly restored, historic indoor shopping arcade lined with boutique retailers, artisan coffee shops, and local eateries.

Bucketlist Item

Attractions, Landmarks

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

An iconic, glass pyramid museum dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of music's greatest artists.

Crew Recommendation

Lunch & Dinner, Shopping, Snacks & Desserts

Gangnam Market

A massive, ultra-modern Asian grocery oasis featuring an extensive food hall, specialty boba counters, and imported goods.

Visited

Attractions, Landmarks

Millenium Park ice rink

Every winter, Millennium Park transforms into one of Chicago's most iconic skating destinations. For an even more memorable experience, head to the nearby Maggie Daley Skate Ribbon.

Visited

Bars & Breweries

The House of Glunz

Located in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood, this 4th generation winery family splits their time between Chicago and California. De La Costa sangria is by far my favorite

Visited

Landmarks, Outdoors, Shopping

City Market

Historic charm mixed with cute shops, food stalls, and indoor-outdoor spaces full of local finds and souvenirs.

Visited

Bars & Breweries, Lunch & Dinner, Snacks & Desserts

Matador Charleston

I originally stopped in because the stained-glass matador overlooking the bar caught my eye, but the food is what keeps bringing me back. With shareable plates, flavorful dishes, and a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere, it's the kind of place that encourages you to settle in and stay awhile.

Visited

Bars & Breweries

The Cocktail Club

Charleston's bar scene never disappoints, and this cozy spot is one of my favorites. Creative cocktails, historic charm, and speakeasy vibes make it an easy recommendation.

Crew Recommendation

Attractions, Outdoors

Edgewater Beach

A vibrant, scenic Lake Erie urban beachfront park offering public swimming, kayak rentals, and iconic views of the city skyline.

Found Online

Attractions

Terminal Tower Observation Deck

A historic 1930s skyscraper landmark offering breathtaking, panoramic bird's-eye views of the urban center and Lake Erie from its 42nd floor.

Visited

Bars & Breweries, Breakfast & Brunch, Lunch & Dinner, Nightlife, Snacks & Desserts

Lockwood Restaurant

Located inside The Palmer House lobby, this restaurant combines excellent food with beautiful 1920s décor and ceiling artwork. Perfect for a classy happy hour or dinner.

Visited

Attractions, Coffee, Landmarks

Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago

Five floors of specialty coffee, cocktails, snacks, and unique Starbucks experiences all under one roof.

Local Approved

Bars & Breweries, Lunch & Dinner, Snacks & Desserts

Little Palm Bar

A chic, mid-century coastal oasis offering refreshing tropical cocktails and light, elegant bites beside a beautiful poolside patio.

Visited

Bars & Breweries

Henry's On The Market

Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, this multi-story bar offers great views, lively crowds, and plenty of Southern charm. Some of my favorite Charleston memories started here.

Visited

Bars & Breweries, Lunch & Dinner, Nightlife

Oyster House Seafood & O-Bar

Great outdoor patio, excellent crab cake burger, and frozen rosé drinks that are dangerously easy to enjoy.

Visited

Breakfast & Brunch

The Daily Cafe — King St

A creative breakfast café with excellent coffee, unique drinks, and a patio perfect for slow mornings. The Israeli Upside Down Latte was a standout.

Found Online

Attractions, Landmarks, Outdoors

Lakeview Cemetery

A historic, Victorian-era garden cemetery housing monumental architecture, the Garfield Monument, and the final resting place of John D. Rockefeller.

Local Approved

Shopping

West Side Market

Cleveland's oldest publicly owned indoor market hall, hosting over 100 diverse vendors selling global meats, cheeses, and fresh pastries.

About Christina's Layover List

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Hi, I’m the flight attendant behind The Layover List! I’ve always loved exploring new places, but being a flight attendant has given me a pretty unique way to do it. Between flights, I’m usually looking for a good local restaurant, a cute coffee shop, something fun to do, or a hidden gem that makes a short layover feel a little more special. I started The Layover List as a way to keep track of the places I’ve loved, the spots my fellow crew members have recommended, and all the places I’m hoping to check out someday. Think of it as my personal collection of “I only have 24 hours here, where should I go?” recommendations.

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Everything featured here is based on my own experiences and opinions and is meant to inspire your travels. Experiences, food quality, service, hours, and safety can change, so please do your own research and use your best judgment when visiting any location featured on the site.

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