Thanksgiving in Chicago: A Cozy South Loop Getaway with My Daughter
For Thanksgiving this year, I was lucky enough to land a house sit in Chicago’s South Loop, caring for three adorable kitties—giving Surae and I the perfect chance to spend the holiday together. It was the ideal home base for exploring the city.
🍜 Eating Our Way Through Chicago (Especially the Asian Food!)
Since good Asian food is rare in Mexico, I came to Chicago with one major goal: eat as much of it as possible. This was accomplished through big bowls of rich, comforting ramen, a dim sum feast in Chinatown, and some incredible sushi. I also made sure we fit in a delicious steak dinner at Chicago Cut Steakhouse, overlooking the river—an experience that lived up to its reputation with amazing food and gorgeous views.
Chicago truly shines as a global food city, and it felt like such a treat to share all of these meals with Surae.
🍁 Fall Colors, Christmas Lights & Classic Chicago Sights
We spent a wonderful afternoon wandering Millennium Park, taking in the Bean and enjoying the last bursts of fall color. I miss seeing autumn living in Mexico, so this felt extra special.
Even better? The holiday decorations were already in full force—huge trees, storefront lights, garlands everywhere. When it’s still 75° back home in Lake Chapala, it’s hard to get into the Christmas spirit, so Chicago gave me the boost I needed.
Another highlight was the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights, which were whimsical, colorful, and festive—an easy way to feel like a kid again.
🌃 Sunset Chicago River Architecture Tour
Hands down, my favorite night of the trip:
the Chicago River Architecture Tour at sunset.
Watching the skyline glow and reflect on the water as the buildings lit up felt magical. Chicago’s architectural landscape is stunning—historic, modern, bold, and elegant all at once.
🎭 Theater Night: Hell’s Kitchen at the Nederlander
We scored lottery tickets to see Hell’s Kitchen at the historic James M. Nederlander Theatre, built in 1926.
It was absolutely freezing that day, so stepping inside such a gorgeous old theater felt like stepping into another world.
🎉 Thanksgiving Parade Magic (Plus: A Surprise Dr. Simi!)
Thanksgiving morning, we bundled up (layers on layers!) and walked to the parade route. I found the perfect spot under the elevated train tracks, which made for an iconic Chicago backdrop.
The parade was lively, multicultural, and joyful—including several groups honoring Mexico, which made my expat heart so happy. I even stood next to a family from Puebla holding a custom Dr. Simi parade doll. When I told them how much I loved it, they were shocked I knew Dr. Simi—and then gave me the doll!
After the parade, we defrosted, said goodbye to Surae, and later that night I ventured back out to the legendary Jazz Showcase, a cozy jazz club dating back to the 1940s. A warm, soulful way to end the holiday.
The next morning, with a snowstorm approaching, I tried to make my way back to Mexico—and of course ran into some travel hiccups. That story deserves its own post… so stay tuned!
❤️ Grateful for Time Together
Even though I no longer have a traditional home base in the U.S., traveling this way—exploring new cities, caring for sweet pets, and spending time with loved ones definitely works for me.
This Thanksgiving in Chicago was a gift, and I’m so grateful for every meal, every laugh, every beautiful moment with my girl.
Can’t wait for the next adventure!
