Secret Chicago

Chicago's Got Secrets

From an energy vortex in Fulton Market to a salt cave in Portage Park, follow Secret Chicago across the city's neighborhoods and into its little-known history. Find oddities and inspiration in Chicago's uncommon sites, including hidden attractions, haunted locales, and unique landmarks. This guide delivers answers to questions around town that you didn't even know you had and proves that
when it comes to secrets, Chicago is second to none.

Secret Chicago is now available from Reedy Press. Order from Indiebound, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or directly from the author.

Sneak Peek

Inside Secret Chicago

Reviews

I was surprised and delighted to find in the book a few things that were new to me, and likely will be to many of you.

Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune

Even if you think you know Chicago well and are familiar with some of its out-of-the-way haunts, you would be surprised to learn from this book about many more hidden gems, quirky attractions, and lonely landmarks that have stayed below the radar—until now.

Greg Borzo, Chicago Writers Association

Pick up this book and you’ll find 90 separate sites Jessica sussed out from all over the city, with an interesting narrative and a few pictures to whet your appetite for adventures of your own. I had a great time checking off places I’d discovered in my own city adventures and finding out about new places and things to see and I can envision this book being a great resource for anyone hoping to get more acquainted with Chicago as it truly is—a group of totally unique, diverse neighborhoods with their own style and culture.

Marielle Bokor, Third Coast Review

What's Inside?

Your guide to 90 distinctive places in and around Chicago.

Twisted History

Whole worlds are lost inside Chicago’s buildings and around street corners. Get face-to-face with Chicago's mysterious past.

Hidden Gems

For Chicagoans eager to step outside their neighborhood and visitors seeking experiences they won’t find anywhere else.

Bizarre Sights

How did a grave end up in a scrap yard? Did the first nuclear reactor ever leave Chicago? Explore this strange and alluring city.

About the Author

Jessica Mlinaric is a writer, photographer, and marketer based in Chicago. Her work covering culture and travel has appeared in Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, Chicago magazine, The Architect's Newspaper, Chicagoist, and more. Jessica founded urbnexplorer.com in 2010 to share stories about cities and their cultures.

Jessica Mlinaric

Writer & Photographer

Cat mom. Probably at a loud concert, unusual museum, or neighborhood tavern.