KubeCon Chicago 2023: A Deep Dive into the Windy City's Best Between Sessions

We're thrilled to be journeying to the bustling core of the Midwest: Chicago! With KubeCon just on the horizon, our team is gearing up for the grand event. We've gathered some insider tips on the must-visit spots outside of our booth time, and we'd love to pass those recommendations your way!

As you gear up for a series of enlightening sessions on Kubernetes, it's paramount to take some time to immerse yourself in the cultural, architectural, and culinary wonders Chicago has to offer. Here’s your comprehensive itinerary.

November 5th: Getting Acquainted with Chicago

• Morning: After dropping off your luggage, make your way to Millennium Park. Don’t just stop at Cloud Gate; the Lurie Garden and Crown Fountain are equally captivating.
• Afternoon: Embark on a self-guided architectural tour of The Loop. Marvel at gems like the Willis Tower, the Chicago Board of Trade, and the Harold Washington Library.
• Evening: Delight your palate with the legendary deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's. Follow it up with a visit to Garrett Popcorn Shops for a tin of their world-famous caramel and cheese mix.

November 6th-9th: KubeCon and Chicago Exploration

Morning Starters:

• Chicago's Lakefront Trail: An 18-mile-long path along Lake Michigan, ideal for early morning jogs or bike rides. Feel the city waking up beside the calm lake.
• Café-hopping in Wicker Park: Kick-start your conference day with craft coffee from places like The Wormhole or La Colombe.

Mid-Conference Getaways:

• Chicago Cultural Center: A quick escape. Marvel at the world's largest Tiffany dome and immerse yourself in diverse art exhibits.
• Maggie Daley Park: A green expanse perfect for short breaks, featuring a rock-climbing wall and mini-golf.

Evening Retreats:

• Magnificent Mile (Michigan Avenue): Mix retail therapy with history. The city’s premier shopping street is lined with historic landmarks.
• Blues at Buddy Guy's Legends: Dive into Chicago's rich music history with some authentic blues music. Perfect for unwinding post-conference.
• Chicago Riverwalk: Opt for a moonlit walk or a twilight architectural boat tour to grasp the essence of Chicago's architectural prowess.

Lunch & Dinner Hubs Near Conference:

• French Market: A European-inspired market with a plethora of gourmet options, from seafood to pastries.
• Fulton Market: Once a meatpacking hub, now a gastronomic wonderland. Dive into places like The Publican or Green Street Smoked Meats.

November 9th Night: KubeCon’s Unofficial Night Out

Wicker Park and Logan Square remain our top picks. However, consider venturing into River North for its pulsating nightlife. Cocktail lounges like The Aviary or LGBTQ-friendly Dorothy offer varied experiences.

November 10th: Wrapping Up Your Chicago Saga

• Morning: Dive into art at the Art Institute of Chicago. Remember to visit the Thorne Miniature Rooms.
• Afternoon: Farewell shouldn’t be hasty. Opt for a leisurely Architectural cruise on Lake Michigan or savor Chicago’s diverse culinary offerings, like the Italian beef sandwich or Chicago-style hot dog.

Balancing KubeCon’s sessions with Chicago’s charm can be a rewarding experience. Let the Windy City surprise you with its myriad faces, from towering skyscrapers to intimate blues bars. On behalf of Steadybit, we wish you an enlightening conference and a memorable stay in Chicago!