Ever wondered what a perfect day in Chicago looks like through the eyes of Chicago Med star Nick Gehlfuss? Spoiler: it’s not all lights, camera, action. The guy knows how to soak in the Windy City like a local—and we’re talking good coffee, bold theater, and soul-refreshing walks.
Let’s step into Nick’s shoes (probably stylish boots, if we’re being honest) and explore what makes his ideal day in Chicago truly magical.
🧭 A Day in the Life of Nick Gehlfuss
Who Is Nick Gehlfuss?
Nick Gehlfuss is best known for his role as Dr. Will Halstead on NBC’s Chicago Med. Beyond the hospital scenes, he’s a passionate theater lover, a foodie, and a proud Chicagoan-by-choice.
☕ Morning Vibes: Coffee, Comfort, and Calm
A Chill Start With the Perfect Brew
Nick kicks off his day with a great cup of coffee—and no, not from a generic chain. He prefers local gems. Heritage Bicycles or Intelligentsia are his go-tos, where the aroma of fresh roast is as much therapy as the drink itself.
Reading the Paper Like It’s 1999
He enjoys flipping through a real newspaper (yes, real paper!), catching up on the world while letting the caffeine do its thing.
🥐 Breakfast Done Right
Where Nick Goes for Breakfast
If he’s in the mood for a full meal, Nick might head to Lula Cafe in Logan Square. Think: farm-to-table eggs, fresh sourdough, and vegan options that actually taste amazing.
🚶♂️ Strolling Through the City
Lakefront Magic
You’ll likely find Nick walking along Lake Michigan, especially around the Lakefront Trail. It’s not just about the view—it’s about decompressing and reconnecting with the city’s rhythm.
People Watching in Lincoln Park
From dog walkers to joggers to the occasional street performer, Lincoln Park offers a meditative yet lively experience that he often appreciates.
🎭 Afternoon Adventures in Art and Culture
A Deep Love for Theater
Nick is a self-professed theater geek—and proud of it. If he could choose one place to spend his afternoon, it’d be Steppenwolf Theatre Company, where he once dreamt of performing.
Why Steppenwolf Holds a Special Place
Founded by Gary Sinise and John Malkovich, Steppenwolf’s raw, intimate performances mirror Nick’s acting philosophy: authentic, emotional, and real.
🍕 Lunch with Local Flavor
Not Your Typical Deep Dish
While tourists might chase down deep-dish pizza, Nick prefers a more refined palate. His lunch pick? Pequod’s Pizza for its caramelized crust—or Au Cheval if he’s craving the city’s most famous burger.
🖼️ Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places
Art Institute Wanderings
After lunch, he may detour to the Art Institute of Chicago—not for Instagram shots, but for authentic inspiration. The Impressionists collection? That’s his zone.
📚 A Quick Literary Escape
Hidden Bookstore Finds
Nick enjoys browsing small indie bookstores like Myopic Books in Wicker Park. He describes the feeling of flipping through aged pages as “a creative detox.”
☀️ Sunset Moments and Golden Hour Vibes
Chicago Riverwalk Magic
As golden hour rolls in, Nick strolls the Chicago Riverwalk, a serene blend of architecture, water, and life in motion.
🍽️ Dinner Under the Stars
His Favorite Dinner Spots
For dinner, Nick might choose Girl & The Goat—a trendy yet earthy restaurant known for its bold, shareable plates. Or he may head to RPM Italian, where the pasta melts like poetry.
🎶 Nighttime Notes and Musical Escape
Live Jazz or Theater?
Depending on his mood, Nick wraps up his night with live jazz at The Green Mill (an Al Capone favorite!) or catches a late show at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier.
🛌 Winding Down Like a Local
Peace, Not Party
Forget afterparties. For Nick, the perfect ending is relaxing at home with a book or favorite series. Maybe The Bear, maybe an old classic—it’s about comfort.
💭 Why This Perfect Day Matters
This isn’t just a schedule—it’s a reflection of what matters most to Nick: art, authenticity, nature, and the human connection. And isn’t that what a perfect day should be?
🌆 Conclusion: Nick’s Chicago, Your New Bucket List
Nick Gehlfuss doesn’t just live in Chicago—he experiences it with heart and soul. His version of a perfect day shows us that the Windy City isn’t just for tourists or business trips. It’s a place of inspiration, creativity, and meaningful pauses.
If you ever get the chance, retrace his steps. Who knows? You might just fall in love with Chicago all over again—or for the first time.
