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Secret Illinois author Jessica Mlinaric holds the book in Chicago
My Books

‘Secret Illinois’ Book Now Available!

My third book, ‘Secret Illinois,’ is here!

A woman in a red shirt poses with a giant astronaut and Route 66 sign
Illinois

The Ultimate Guide to Route 66 in Illinois

Jessica Mlinaric and Geoffrey Baer with bicycles at the Illinois-Indiana State Line Boundary Marker
Chicago

Exploring Chicago Mysteries with WTTW

People browsing outdoor Chicago Christkindlmarket
Chicago

Chicago’s 20 Favorite Christmas Traditions to Enjoy the Holiday Season

by Jessica Mlinaric / October 12, 2026October 12, 2026

Sip mulled wine, visit a festive pop-up, and catch a Christmas performance in Chicago.

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View of downtown Chicago at sunrise
Chicago

50 Fun Things to Do in Chicago in December From a Local

by Jessica Mlinaric / October 6, 2026October 14, 2026

From winter fun to holiday cheer, check out these 50 fun things to try in Chicago this winter.

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Aerial view of Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan with fall leaves
Chicago

30 Fun Things to Do in Chicago in November

by Jessica Mlinaric / September 25, 2026October 12, 2026

From fall fun to holiday activities, check out these 30 fun things to try in Chicago this autumn.

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Greetings from Chicago mural on a brick building in Logan Square
Chicago

9 Interesting Hidden Gems in Logan Square, Chicago

by Jessica Mlinaric / September 22, 2026September 27, 2026

Find my favorite hidden gems in this historic and trendy neighborhood. 

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Burnham Island at Graceland Cemetery in the fall
Chicago

35 Fun Things to Do in Chicago in October

by Jessica Mlinaric / September 8, 2026September 15, 2026

Get ideas for fall fun with these 35 things to try in Chicago this autumn.

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Crowd at Riot Fest
Chicago, Culture, Music

Riot Fest Tips from a Concert Photographer

by Jessica Mlinaric / September 1, 2026September 3, 2026

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a veteran fan, I’m sharing my best Riot Fest tips.

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Chicago Riverwalk
Chicago

35 Fun Things to Do in Chicago in September from a Local

by Jessica Mlinaric / August 18, 2026August 20, 2026

Heading to Chicago this fall? Check out these 30 fun things to do.

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Chicago skyline with jets
Chicago

Chicago Air and Water Show Tips for a High-Flying Weekend

by Jessica Mlinaric / August 10, 2026August 10, 2026

Check out these tips for attending the country’s largest free air show .

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Chicago

45 Fun Things to Do in Chicago in August from a Local

by Jessica Mlinaric / July 14, 2026August 10, 2026

Heading to Chicago this summer? Check out these 55 fun things to do.

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colorful concert stage lights outdoors
Chicago, Music

Lollapalooza Tips from a Concert Photographer

by Jessica Mlinaric / July 1, 2026August 10, 2026

I’m sharing my best Lollapalooza tips from more than a decade of attending.

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About Me

Urban Explorer is a travel blog highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems to inspire curious travelers by Jessica Mlinaric, author of 'Secret Chicago' and 'Chicago Scavenger.'
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Chicago Scavenger book by Jessica Mlinaric
Secret Chicago book by Jessica Mlinaric

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