Gotham City. The Windy City. Chicago has many names but one thing remains the same: it’s one of the must-visit cities in the United States. Tourists flock from all over the world to try out its famous food, enjoy the blues and sip on cool, crisp craft beer.

But there are a few things that you just have to do the next time you’re there. They may not be in the mainstream but that’s what makes them so perfect; hidden treasures that make your time that much more special.

Here are five things you should not miss the next time you’re in Chicago.

1. The Pedway

Chicago is well known for its stunning skylines, but what you may not find regularly on the tourist map can be found below ground level. Beneath the Loop is miles and miles of interesting walkways waiting to be explored. 

The system is called the Pedway. It was initially designed to protect citizens from the harsh winter weather, allowing people to walk from building to building. The entire Pedway goes for about 40 blocks but even some of the locals don’t know it exists. In fact, some may be using it right now without realising it, walking through a lobby here or a shopping mall there.

Pedway routes are marked by a yellow compass symbol so look out for them the next time you’re strolling through an interesting walkway.

Now, don’t start thinking these are some dingy tunnels. The Pedway is very much a classy affair, with entrances to City Hall and the Chicago Cultural Centre all part of the system, as well as several popular food courts and shopping opportunities.

Take your time and take it all in. There aren’t many maps that cover the Pedway any more so feel free to explore to your heart’s content.

2. The Double: An Urban Tavern

This establishment likes to stay on the down-low, which is some feat considering how much praise it receives. The Double serves an excellent range of unique craft beers, but the main attraction is its selection of beer cocktails. There’s loads to try, from a Chambord while ale to a bacon Maker’s Mark. 

You will find this place at Logan Square, only providing another reason to spend your time in this awesome part of town. The barman, Henry, certainly knows his stuff and the atmosphere created here is warm and cozy. You’ll also find high-quality music and large screen TVs for a full-on pub feel.

But the main thing is the drinks – and they are spot on. If you can find a chick hotel, you can stay close to the action and not have to worry about getting back if you have one or two (probably two). Check out this article for some suggestions.

3. Kayak Night Tour

It’s one thing to see the city on land. It’s a whole new ball game to see it from the river. The Chicago Architecture Foundation runs a top-notch river tour which isn’t to be missed. 

But even so, there’s an even better suggestion – kayaking.

Paddle yourself up and down the lake thanks to a range of options with Kayak Chicago. The best time to go is during sunset or at night. Honestly, it takes it to a whole other level. Bathe in the bright golden lights of the city’s towering skyscrapers and see them glisten in the lit up water. It’s an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

You don’t need any experience on the water either. Just remember to keep your phone/camera in a waterproof bag so it doesn’t get damaged by splash water while you’re taking the Instagram-worthy photos.

4. Rotofugi

Want to pick up a souvenir for those back home? Then look no further than Rotofugi. It’s a designer toy store for adults and pretty much heaven on Earth for graphic designers. You won’t run into any trouble finding the perfect gift either for yourself or someone else, from the Kid Robot toy Tokidoki.

There’s a wide range of vinyl figures, plush toys and much more as the designs come from both Eastern and Western culture. Even if you’re there just to browse and see what’s on offer, the gorgeous displays will make it worth your time.

Inside the Rotofugi is the Rotofugi Gallery which features exhibits from local and national artists. The store is a family-run business run by Kirby and Whitney Kerr. They’re both around on most days and will happily chat with you about the art and toys. 

But by now, you’re probably still thinking about the unusual name. Well, here’s what Mr and Mrs Kerr have to say:

“When we say Rotofugi, we pronounce it with a ‘soft’ G…like ‘RO-TOW-FOO-JEE.’ However, if you wanna give it a ‘hard’ G sound we really don’t care. Strictly speaking, Rotofugi doesn’t mean anything…it’s a made up word.” 

So now you know.

5. The International Museum Of Surgical Science

This is one of the most interesting places in Chicago. The International Museum of Surgical Science is not for the faint-hearted though, so make sure you’re prepared for the experience.

It’s located within a Gold Coast mansion built back in 1917 which was modelled based on the Le Petit Trianon in Versailles. The museum is run by the International College of Surgeons and is full of surgical instruments, sculptures and paintings that depict how we have been healing each other all over the world.

It’s quite old-school, as in there aren’t any interactive displays or anything you can physically interact with, but this makes it even better. There are also some wartime exhibits to see, including some amputation kits and even a working iron-lung machine. 

The IMSS also recreates an old apothecary shop and a 20th Century dentist’s office on an exhibit that shows what the streets used to be like. There are also sculptures of some of the greatest people in the world of surgery and medicine on show.