Dr. Darnell A. Durrah

When your daughter tells you she wants to spend her birthday in Chicago, you don’t just say yes—you plan a trip to make it unforgettable. That’s exactly what this journey was all about: celebrating my now 15-year-old in one of America’s most vibrant cities. From luxurious accommodations to exploring iconic locations, indulging in local eats, and celebrating her big day, Chicago gave us a trip full of memories we’ll cherish forever.

A Warm Welcome at the JW Marriott

Our home base for this adventure was the JW Marriott Chicago, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The luxurious accommodations set the tone for the trip with their blend of elegance and comfort. One of my favorite parts of staying at the JW Marriott was the Executive Lounge. Whether we needed a quiet space to relax after a long day of exploring or a quick bite before heading out, the lounge exceeded every expectation. The staff’s attention to detail and the overall atmosphere made the stay feel extra special.

The hotel itself is perfectly located in downtown Chicago, offering easy access to everything the city has to offer. And while the city’s public transportation is excellent, I opted to rent a car using my USAA benefits via Alamo. Driving through Chicago and the surrounding areas in a smooth Chevrolet Malibu added to the experience. The freedom to explore at our own pace was invaluable, especially for venturing out to places like Schaumburg for my daughter’s birthday shopping.

Birthday Highlights and Midwest Vibes

My daughter’s birthday wish list included a shopping spree at Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, about 25 miles outside of downtown Chicago. The drive itself was a highlight—there’s nothing quite like the charm of the Midwest. Open roads, beautiful scenery, and that undeniable sense of Americana made the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Woodfield Mall didn’t disappoint. From big-name stores to unique boutiques, it offered everything a teenager could dream of for a perfect birthday shopping experience. Of course, no trip—whether at home or away—would be complete without a stop at Target. Yes, even on vacation, Target called, and we answered!

Exploring Chicago’s Unique Attractions

Back in the city, we made it a point to explore some of Chicago’s most unique and memorable attractions. One of the standout experiences was the Museum of Ice Cream. Let me tell you, it’s not just for kids! This whimsical, interactive museum was a highlight for both of us, with its colorful displays and delicious treats at every turn.

We also had the chance to observe the filming of Chicago Med, which was a surreal experience. Watching the production of a show that captures so much of Chicago’s spirit was a treat I wasn’t expecting. Another favorite stop was the police precinct associated with Chicago PD, one of my all-time favorite shows. The precinct is located on the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) campus, and I have to say, UIC’s campus is breathtaking. It’s an open campus with a mix of modern and historic architecture, all nestled within the heart of the city. Walking through it, you can feel the energy of the students and the vibrancy of the city around it.

Foodie Adventures in Chicago

You can’t visit Chicago without diving into its iconic food scene, and we made sure to try the best of what the city had to offer. Based on recommendations from locals, we set our sights on Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, and Gino’s East.

At Giordano’s, we went classic with a cheese and spinach deep-dish pizza that was rich, gooey, and delicious. At Lou Malnati’s, I discovered a new favorite: the Chicago Italian beef sandwich. Served with both Italian and barbecue dipping sauces, it was a flavor explosion I’ll be dreaming about until my next visit. Unfortunately, we ran out of time to try Gino’s East, but it’s already on the list for the next trip.

Traveling in Comfort and Style

Getting to Chicago was as enjoyable as the trip itself, thanks to Delta Airlines. I treated my daughter to the Delta Sky Lounge experience at LAX, where she quickly found a quiet spot to do what all teenagers do—pull out her phone and dive into YouTube.

The return trip through Chicago O’Hare gave us the chance to check out another Delta Sky Lounge, and this one was refreshingly uncrowded. For anyone wondering, my favorite Delta Sky Lounge so far is still Salt Lake City. The views there are unmatched.

Reflecting on the Journey

The best moment of the trip came unexpectedly. After days filled with laughter, exploration, and celebration, my daughter gave me a heartfelt hug and said, “Thank you for making this birthday special.” As a parent, that’s the kind of moment you hold onto forever.

This trip reminded me of how important it is to take the time to create meaningful memories. Thank you to my Heavenly Father for allowing me this opportunity, thank you to my daughter for inspiring this adventure, and thank you, Chicago, for being the perfect backdrop to a celebration we’ll never forget.

Now, it’s time to return to reality, get ready for Thanksgiving, and take on my on-call duties until Monday morning. But Chicago, I’ll be back. Until next time!

This article is written by Dr. Darnell Durrah, a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience, but more than that, just a person who truly values connection and purpose. Growing up in Compton shaped who I am today—a proud father, dedicated professional, and someone who believes in finding joy and meaning in life’s everyday moments. Whether it’s traveling to create lasting memories, helping my clients navigate life’s challenges, or simply learning from the stories of others, I know that connection is what makes life rich. If this resonates with you, I’d love to connect. Let’s keep the conversation going and see how we can make an impact together!