Have you ever wondered how your favorite TV stars spend their downtime? Nick Gehlfuss, best known for his role as Dr. Will Halstead on Chicago Med, recently gave us a peek into his perfect day in the Windy City—and let’s just say, it’s a vibe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love exploring Chicago like a local, this is the kind of itinerary that blends culture, comfort, and connection.
Starting the Day Like a True Chicagoan
Morning Coffee at Intelligentsia
For Nick, the day begins with intention—and caffeine. He kicks things off at Intelligentsia Coffee in Logan Square. Why here? Because it’s more than just a latte; it’s about the vibe, the community, and the locally roasted perfection.
“Coffee is the ritual,” Nick says, “It’s about grounding yourself.”
A Walk Around the 606 Trail
Post-coffee, Nick takes a brisk walk on the 606 Trail, Chicago’s elevated greenway. It’s where urban grit meets nature, and it’s the perfect spot to clear the mind before a bustling day.
Midday Art, Architecture, and Appreciation
Architectural Tour on the Chicago River
Nick’s next stop is something he swears every local should do at least once a year—an architecture boat tour. These river tours give a historical perspective on Chicago’s iconic skyline, and for Nick, they’re “the ultimate reminder of the city’s resilience and brilliance.”
A Quick Stop at the Art Institute
You can’t walk past The Art Institute of Chicago without feeling pulled in. For Nick, it’s all about the classics—Monet, Van Gogh, and the peaceful escape from the noise.
“It resets my creative compass,” he says.
Lunch Like a Local—Not a Celebrity
Lou Malnati’s for Deep Dish
When lunchtime hits, Gehlfuss doesn’t go fancy—he goes flavorful. Lou Malnati’s deep-dish pizza is his go-to, and yes, he orders it with sausage.
“It’s indulgent, but that’s the point. It’s Chicago.”
Afternoon at Steppenwolf Theatre—Where It All Started
Revisiting the Stage That Shaped Him
One of Nick’s most nostalgic and meaningful stops? Steppenwolf Theatre. He trained here, grew here, and still finds inspiration in the space.
“TV gave me reach, but theater gave me roots.”
Sitting In on a Rehearsal
If he’s lucky, he sneaks in during a rehearsal. Watching the next generation of actors work their craft keeps him grounded and grateful.
A Stroll Through Lincoln Park
Sunset Walk Among the Trees
As the afternoon winds down, Nick heads to Lincoln Park. It’s not about being seen—it’s about getting lost among trees and trails while the sun sets behind the skyline.
“Nature in the city is like finding peace in chaos.”
Dinner with Soul at Lula Cafe
Farm-to-Table with Familiar Faces
Dinner happens in Logan Square again—this time at Lula Cafe, a farm-to-table favorite. Nick’s often seen here unwinding with friends or reconnecting over seasonal plates that taste like comfort.
Chicago’s Soundtrack: A Live Jazz Finale
Catching a Set at The Green Mill
To cap off the night? A live jazz set at The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, a legendary Uptown spot with Al Capone-era charm and world-class musicianship.
“This is the heartbeat of the city after dark.”
The Real Reason Nick Loves This City
It’s More Than a Backdrop—It’s a Muse
For Nick Gehlfuss, Chicago isn’t just where he works. It’s where he grows. From the stage lights of Steppenwolf to the quiet benches of Lincoln Park, every corner fuels his craft and his soul.
Lessons from a Star’s Day Off
Nick’s perfect day is less about celebrity glitz and more about intentional living. It’s about slowing down, savoring moments, and staying connected to what matters—whether that’s a good espresso, a timeless painting, or a jazz note echoing in a dark bar.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Day in Chicago
Nick Gehlfuss’s ideal day isn’t just a blueprint—it’s an invitation. An invitation to unplug, rediscover your city (or someone else’s), and find joy in the little things. Whether you follow his trail exactly or carve your own path, the message is clear: every day is a chance to fall in love with life again.
So go ahead. Grab that coffee. Book that boat tour. Sink into that slice of deep-dish. You’re not just touring a city—you’re experiencing it the way a storyteller does.
