Struan Hogg

Born in Scotland, Struan fell in love with Chicago after visiting family in his teens and never looked back. As the founder and editor of Hey Chicago, he travels to the city regularly, spending his time walking its 77 neighborhoods, digging into local archives, and tracking down the untold history behind its architecture. Combining an outsider’s wonder with a deep respect for Chicago grit, Struan celebrates the community stories that make the Windy City unmatched.

12 Stunning Historic Libraries in Chicago That Are Incredible Beautiful & Free To Visit

by Struan Hogg

Here are the first three incredibly beautiful Chicago libraries that you can walk right into for absolutely free.

12 Normal-Looking Chicago Buildings That Hide a Very Dark History

by Struan Hogg

You walk past them every day. Uncover the chilling true history of 12 normal-looking Chicago buildings, from mob hits to hidden mass graves.

11 Incredible Things You Have to Do in Chicago’s Chinatown

by Struan Hogg

Skip the tourist traps! From hidden speakeasies and underground food courts to the Midwest’s largest Asian market, explore Chicago’s Chinatown like a local.

Sick of $25 Burgers? 9 Chicago Eats That Will Feed you For Under $10

by Struan Hogg

Sick of $25 burgers and downtown tourist traps? Discover 9 legendary Chicago meals under $10, from massive Polish hot bars to the city’s best smashburger.

Chicago Locals Say These Are The Best Rooftop Bars In The City

by Struan Hogg

The 13 best Chicago rooftop bars locals actually recommend, ranked by what kind of night you’re planning. From iconic skyline views to neighborhood hideouts.

The 12 Best Museums In Chicago (And Which Ones Are Actually Worth The Ticket Price)

by Struan Hogg

The 12 best museums in Chicago and which ones are actually worth the ticket price. From the Art Institute to free hidden gems most visitors miss.

5 Chicago Architecture Boat Tours Locals Actually Recommend (And The $10 Budget Option)

by Struan Hogg

The 7 best Chicago architecture boat tours, ranked by locals. From the volunteer-led gold standard to the niche fireboat tour. A local’s guide.

How Chicago Invented Improv Comedy (And Why Every SNL Star Started Here)

by Struan Hogg

Chicago invented improv comedy in 1955. Here’s the full story from Viola Spolin and the Compass Players to Second City, iO, and SNL.

12 Best Speakeasies In Chicago (And How To Actually Get In)

by Struan Hogg

The 13 best speakeasies in Chicago, from the bookshelf door at The Drifter to the laundromat entrance at the Magic Lounge. A local’s guide to hidden bars.

8 Incredible Artifacts At The Chicago Museum That Inspired Indiana Jones (And The Stories Behind Them)

by Struan Hogg

The 8 incredible artifacts at Chicago’s hidden museum that inspired Indiana Jones. From a 17-foot King Tut to the original Pazuzu from The Exorcist.