I'm from California, 26M. I'm visiting Chicago alone via California Zephyr. I'm taking the train on the 8th, and then leaving on the 16th. There's a hostel for about 80 bucks a night I was planning to take base in. But if you have recommendations :)

EDIT: I'm staying in Lincoln Park for my trip. I am not opposed to traveling for a day-trip. But of course there's so much to see in only 7ish days.

Sorry if there's an FAQ, I can't find it on mobile.

Part of the fun is going there completely blind... but I also know that there's more than I even am aware exists in Chicago. I'm looking for recommendations for night life music. Recommendations for when I go see Lake Michigan (I know it's literally at Chicago, but specific waterfronts?)

I was told I HAVE to take the architecture tour, do you agree?

I love small venue music (jazz, experimental, electronic, anything really) especially at a bar. If there are any symphony or wind ensemble performances, I love those too. I'm easy going, I like fun, but I'm not very much of a partier per se, any shows going on that I can check out?

I love transit and urbanism, and I like cycling recreationally and commuting, but I am not an athlete cyclist. What advice do you have in exploring without a car (I don't plan to rent a car if I don't need to) I have a relatively good walking endurance level and I enjoy it.

I'm of course wanting to try restaurants, but I'm not loaded with cash, so reasonable restaurant prices. (I'll leave that interpretation to you)

I love coffee (original I know) best coffee place that serves 'for here'?

I really would love to see what Chicago is like for the local, grocery stores, book stores, gameshops (card/board games, vidja games, etc.)

I can't think of a whole lot else to ask about. I'm also curious to visit Milwaukee or other cities/towns if it's accessible via transit.

Thank you for taking the time to read/answer :)