Secret Chicago

3 days ago | secretchicago.com | Elena Smentkowski

Chicagoans have a brand new way to explore Lake Michigan this summer—and the rest of the Great Lakes, too. On Monday evening, the Victory II cruise liner officially set sail from Navy Pier, embarking on its maiden voyage from the heart of the city. The 300-foot ship is now offering multi-day cruises that sweep across all five Great Lakes. Stops along the journey include scenic coastal towns and historic cities like Escanaba, Mackinac Island, Sault Ste.

4 days ago | secretchicago.com | Elena Smentkowski

A Chicago restaurant is staking its claim as Pope Leo XIV’s favorite Chicago pizzeria! Aurelio’s Pizza of Homewood is the newly elected pontiff’s unofficial favorite local pizza spot. Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost, was born and raised in the nearby town of Dolton Illinois, and spent time in Homewood during his adolescence.

4 days ago | secretchicago.com | Elena Smentkowski

“National Slider Day” is Thursday, May 15, and White Castle is celebrating by giving away free sliders all day long. White Castle established the unofficial national holiday in 2015, according to WGN, as a tribute to its iconic burgers. Customers can redeem their free sandwich at any Chicago White Castle location by downloading the White Castle app and entering the code “SLIDERDAY.” Additionally, a digital coupon will be available on White Castle’s website and social media pages.

6 days ago | secretchicago.com | Tori Levy

In the hours following Pope Leo XIV’s election announcement, reports emerged claiming that his loyalty belonged to the North Side. However, these reports were quickly challenged by others who stated that he actually supported the South Siders. John Prevost, the Pope’s brother, confirmed that his brother is actually a White Sox fan, noting that their parents had split loyalties between the Cubs and the Cardinals. “Whoever said Cubs on the radio got it wrong.

1 week ago | secretchicago.com | Tori Levy

If you were heartbroken by the news that My Pi Pizza, the Chicago deep-dish staple, is closing forever, we have more somber news: another pizza spot has closed its doors permanently. Pizza Capri is leaving Lincoln Park After more than three decades at the corner of Willow and Halsted, Pizza Capri has officially vacated the space forever. If you pass by the restaurant, you’ll see a sign thanking customers for their support over the years.