3 Winter Road Trip Bakery Stops To Warm Up Your Chicago Journey
The Chicago area boasts some of the best bakeries in the United States. If you plan on exploring Chicago this winter, taking a bakery tour can help you become more familiar with the city. You might even discover a few new favorite treats along the way.
Authentic French Bakery Experience at La Fournette
For an authentic French bakery experience, visit La Fournette. This place combines old-world recipes with Chicagoan flair and is well-known for its crusty, aromatic breads. Nearly all of their breads contain natural sourdough starters, which results in a rustic, robust flavor. They offer an extensive selection of pastries, breakfast items, as well as crepes and sandwiches made to order.
Weber’s Bakery: A Chicago Institution Since 1930
Weber’s Bakery has been a well-known Chicago institution since 1930 and is a favorite spot among locals and tourists alike. Customers often line up for their traditional holiday offerings, which include donuts, cakes, and other delicious pastries. While Weber’s Bakery is cozy, it doesn’t offer dine-in service. It’s still well worth the visit, though, so consider placing your order online or stopping by their storefront.
Unique Treats at Sugar Moon
Head to Sugar Moon for unique treats you might not find anywhere else. This local bakery has a cozy feel and is known for whipping up sweet and savory baked goods like scones, cookies, and buttery croissants. Their reasonable prices and unique, flavorful ingredients make them a local favorite. It also boasts a quaint, cozy feel and offers limited seating for those who would like to enjoy their treats on-site.
Essential Tips for a Winter Bakery Tour With Snowbird Auto Transport
Chicago is one of the best cities for enjoying unique culinary experiences. Visiting during the wintertime gives you the chance to try seasonal items that local bakeries only whip up once a year. If you’re planning to hit the road soon for an unforgettable bakery tour in Chicago, here are a few tips to help you along the way.
One of the best ways to get to Chicago (especially if you’re traveling cross-country) is by plane. Once you arrive, you’ll want to have your vehicle on hand. While Chicago has an excellent public transportation system, having your own car means you can visit all the places you’d like on your own schedule.
If you’re flying to Chicago, you’ll need to find a reliable and safe way to ensure your car is there when you arrive. Instead of driving it across country yourself, consider hiring a snowbird auto transport service. Auto transport is an excellent option for seniors or retirees who enjoy traveling (usually south) during the colder season. But if your adventures take you to Chicago, you can also enjoy the flexibility and convenience that these auto transportation services have to offer.
When choosing the right company to work with, your best bet is to shop around. For an optimal experience, you’ll want a company that offers plenty of options (like the ability to choose between open or closed haulers and expedited shipping). As snowbirds, your needs are unique, so make sure the employees you work with have proven expertise and are happy to answer any questions you have. Also, make sure you’re planning your travels at least a few months in advance. Road conditions can quickly change during the winter in Chicago, and you’ll want to allow plenty of time in case of an unexpected storm.
Before the company shows up to ship your vehicle, make sure to give it a deep clean. Thoroughly wash the exterior and take all your personal items out of the interior. By cleaning your car on the inside and out, the pre-shipment inspection should go smoothly. It may be a good idea to consider putting a wax coat on your vehicle too, since it can help shield the paint from debris during transport (especially if you’re using an open-air shipping container).
After you completely clean your vehicle, be sure to thoroughly document its condition. Take detailed, time-stamped photographs and a video of your car. Make sure to get it from every angle. These steps can help you prove its condition if any damage occurs during shipping.
Family-Friendly Bakery Stops to Brighten Your Winter Road Adventure
If you’re traveling with your family in tow, Chicago has many excellent family-friendly bakeries that are particularly welcoming for children. From classic cupcake shops to places that host kid-friendly events, you’ll find something for everyone in your group.
If you’re heading to Chicago’s Theater District, plan a stop at Magnolia Bakery. This shop features a banana pudding bar and flavors like red velvet, cookies and cream, and chocolate hazelnut. They also host cupcake decorating workshops for kids throughout the year, which are usually themed for the season.
For another charming and family-friendly option, visit Sweet Mandy B’s Bakery. This Lincoln Park shop is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere, old-fashioned desserts, and has the ability to make every visitor feel like a kid again. Their great prices mean you can sample several local favorites, including their cinnamon rolls, brownies, and snickerdoodles.
The Bakehouse Chicago is another great family-owned business that deserves a stop on your bakery tour. Its warm, cozy environment is excellent for travelers with young children. Some of their most popular offerings include their homemade croissants, custom cakes, and gluten-free baked goods.
If you’re planning on sampling the local bakeries in Chicago during the wintertime, be sure to plan ahead. Many of them offer seasonal treats, so it’s a good idea to visit early or order ahead before they sell out of some of their most popular items. Some also offer holiday specials, so it doesn’t hurt to check their websites and social media to see if you can get a great deal. By exploring everything these local bakeries have to offer, you’re sure to discover a few new favorites.
