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Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Opera house Opera house Kalepook Before you hop on a plane to begin your Chicago vacation, please take a moment to learn a little bit about the history of this beautiful city and find out why more than 32 million people choose to take a Chicago trip each year. Since its humble beginnings in 1835, when it was a nothing more than a group of cabins on the Chicago River, Chicago has boomed with activity and has earned the name "The City That Works." By 1890 it had become the second largest city in the nation, although it never caught up with New York City. Then in 1871 what started as a small fire in a stable far to the west of the city center, became a blazing inferno that destroyed the whole inner city. This tragedy resulted in a golden opportunity for Chicagoans; the chance to rebuild their city from the ground up. The result is a better street layout and safer sanitary conditions for its citizens (also aided by the flow reversal of the Chicago River, which took waste downriver to the Mississippi River instead of out into Lake Michigan, the city's water source). Chicago is famous for food and its jazz and blues clubs, and for good reason. If music isn't your thing, you can wine and dine in the greatest of Chicago restaurants where you will find everything from the some of best ribs in the U.S. to exotic food -- Chicago does it right. And let's not forget about Chicago hotels, which are among some of the grandest in the world. Take one look at the historic Drake Hotel at Michigan Avenue and world famous Lake Shore Drive and you will see why! Perhaps the greatest feature of Chicago is its beautiful architecture. While not as big as New York, downtown Chicago is unmatched in its sheer beauty because of the uniqueness in style of each building. Standing in the heart of Chicago is a memorable experience: standing on a bridge over the Chicago River, the Wrigley Building on one side and the great towers of downtown on the other; swarmed by the masses shopping along Michigan Ave. The Magnificent Mile -- it'll take your breath away. The Chicago Architecture Foundation conducts tours of Chicago's buildings. The "Architectural Tour of the Historic Skyscrapers," which is a walking tour, will take you inside some of these buildings that otherwise you would not see. These tours are a must when in Chicago. The Foundation store is located on Michigan Ave. from where these tours begin. 224 South Michigan Avenue, www.architecture.org. Some of Chicago's most obvious attractions include the Sears Tower (formerly the tallest skyscraper in the world), the Hancock Building (home of The Signature Room, a restaurant and bar at the top of the building), and Navy Pier. Navy Pier features all kinds of unique Chicago activities. You can can enjoy a dinner cruise or water tour of Chicago, a stained-glass museum, the incredibly fun Children's Museum for the toys, as well as tons of shopping, Chicago seafood restaurants and bar & grills, and plenty or art to keep your attention. While you're at Navy Pier, get some cinnamon-roasted almonds and fresh-squeezed lemonade -- highly recommended!. Other major attractions include: the Shedd Aquarium, the Art Institute, Adler Planetarium, and the Field Museum. You can also enjoy the Magnificent Mile, a line of high-end shopping destinations right on Michigan Avenue. And, don't forget to take a stroll along the waterfront where you can catch a glimpse of the famous Buckingham Fountain. Also, new to the Chicago scene, is Millennium Park, home of a fantastic bandshell, breath-taking gardens, playful fountains, a relaxing promenade, the "Bean," and a myriad of shop and eateries, as well as other attractions. If you come to visit, make sure to skip out on the taxis and walk around a bit. You will find tons of fascinating little gems tucked away in every corner of this lively city, you just have to look for them! Continue reading to find out more about the top ten things to do in Chicago. Top Ten Things to Do in Chicago Magnificent Mile - Chicago's Magnificent Mile is world famous for upscale shopping, world class dining venues with panoramic views of the city, hip and sophisticated hotels, and celebrity sightings -- of course. Along the Magnificent Mile (or Mag Mile) you will find high-end designers such as Gucci, Hugo Boss, Armani, Escada, and Bottega Veneta as well as less expensive retailers such as H&M. The Apple Store, Nike, Levi's, Polo, Nordstrom's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdale's are also located on the Mag Mile. Architectural gems such as the Old Water Tower, the John Hancock Center, the Tribune Tower, The Drake Hotel, and the Wrigley Building can be found along the mile. Alinea and Charlie Trotter's - The reason Alinea and Charlie Trotter's and are listed together is that the two famous Chicago restaurants made the The S. Pellegrino World's 50 Best Restaurants 2008 list. Alinea ranked #21 and Charlie Trotter's ranked #38. Charlie Trotter's has made the list every year since 2002, when it was ranked at #11. Charlie Trotter's is located in Lincoln Park at 816 W. Armitage Avenue, Ph: 773-248-6228, www.charlietrotters.com. Alinea, also in Lincoln Park, is located at 1723 N. Halsted Street, Ph: 312-867-0110, www.alinea-restaurant.com. Millennium Park - This 24.5 acre park owned by the City of Chicago includes work by a collection of artists, designers, landscapers and architects including: Kathryn Gustafson, Frank Gehry, Juame Plensa, and Anish Kapoor. It is also home to the 300-seat Park Grill, situated right next to a 16,000 square foot ice-skating rink that converts to a 150-seat star-lit dining area featuring outdoor concerts and fashion shows. Other highlights include: a music pavilion, theater, garden, and Ameritech Plaza, fountain. The Symphony Center has enough space for 120 musicians and 150 singers and it can seat 4,000 guests, while the lawn area can accommodate more than 11,000 people. The music and dance theater features a 1,500-seat auditorium. The Drake Hotel - The Drake Hotel needs no introduction. This historic hotel has hosted heads of states, the Royal Family, and dignitaries. It is the preferred hotel for the rich and famous and "discerning travelers." It is a permanent part of Chicago's skyline and a landmark known as "where the Magnificent Mile begins." This grand hotel has 535 guestrooms, including 74 luxurious suites. If you can't afford to stay here, at least have dinner at the world famous Coq d'Or restaurant or stop in for afternoon tea at the Palm Court. 140 East Walton Place, 312-787-2200, www.thedrakehotel.com. Navy Pier - Navy Pier is the place where locals and people from the surrounding areas and beyond come to play. In fact, the number of visitors to Navy Pier is estimated at somewhere around 8 million. In addition to dozens of opportunities to take a cruise around Lake Michigan, a speed boat ride, or a number of architectural cruises, the Pier has a massive Ferris wheel, a game center, and a food court, several bar & grill restaurants, seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and more. Navy Pier is located at 600 East Grand Avenue and is easily accessed by bus, taxi, subway, and a free trolley from various points throughout the downtown area. www.transitchicago.com Sears Tower - Sears Tower stands at 1,450 feet tall and 110 stories high making it the tallest building in North America and the third tallest building in the world. Inside, the building has 3.8 million square feet of space and skydeck that has to be experienced to be believed -- it is the one of the world's highest observatories. The Sears Tower Skydeck is located at 233 S. Wacker Drive, Ph: 312-875-9696 or 312-875-9447, www.theskydeck.com. The Skydeck is open 365 days a year from 10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. April-September and until 8:00 p.m. October-March. North Avenue Beach - North Avenue Beach is the most popular beach in Chicago. During the summer months, the beach hosts championship volleyball games and other events, it has an outdoor workout area, rollerblade rink, a popular bar & grill called "Castaways," and it is located along one of the most famous bike paths in the city -- the Lake Shore Drive bike path. North Avenue Beach is located at 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive, Info.: 773-327-2706. The Art Institute - The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most prestigious art museums and art schools in the world. The museum is home to more than 300,000 works of art and the school has more than 3,000 students. The art museum features everything from African, American, ancient, Asian, contemporary, and European, to Modern and Indian artwork, sculptures, photography, prints, and more. The Art Institute is located at 111 S. Michigan Avenue, Ph: 312-443-3600, www.artic.edu. Shedd Aquarium - Not only has John G. Shedd aquarium been a leader in the zoo and aquarium profession for more than 75 years, the building is a national historic landmark. The aquarium features several massive exhibits including: Wild Reef -- Sharks at Shedd, Oceanarium, Waters of the World, Caribbean Reef, and Amazon Rising. Shedd has regularly scheduled special exhibits. John G. Shedd Aquarium is located at 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Ph: 312-939-2438, www.sheddaquarium.org. The Field Museum - One of the top natural history museums in the world, the Field Museum is home to more than 20 million specimens and a whopping 25,000-volume natural history library. Permanent exhibits offer a trip back in time to Ancient Egypt and temporary exhibits have included famous traveling exhibits such as the Auschwitz Album and King Tut, to name a few. The Field Museum is located at 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Ph: 312-665-7683, www.fieldmuseum.org. All Chicago attractions listed here can be reached by car, bus, subway or taxi. www.transitchicago.com _________Sights Edit This Millennium park Millennium park Robert Roby Chicago is all about spectacular sights and scenery and you will discover that there is an overabundance of things to see during your Chicago vacation. If you can extend your Chicago trip for a few days, you wont be disappointed. During the summer months you can explore Chicago's beaches, parks, and gardens or go to one of the cities many festivals. And when the temperature drop, you can spend your days dotting from museums and landmarks to architectural wonders and your nights dining at world famous Chicago restaurants. Continue reading to find more out about some of Chicago's top sights and attractions. Contributors June 04, 2008 change by mcburton [Add Sight] Art Institute of Chicago Edit This New addition to The Art Institute of Chicago under construction New addition to The Art Institute of Chicago under construction photo by: Joseph Hollick The Art Institute of Chicago hosts a collection covering 5,000 years of art. Events and exhibitions are hosted year-round (they are only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). The museum offers lectures, workshops, performances, and courses every day. The AI is located centrally in Chicago, adjacent to Millennium Park. There is a suggested admission donation of $12 for adults, but it's acceptable to pay a little less. In the lower level, among other things, are the Kraft Education Center (oriented to children!) and the Photography exhibition more.. type: Public Buildings World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312.443.3600 openingHours: varies, check site url: www.artic.edu address: 111 South Michigan Avenue Magnificent Mile Edit This Chicago's Magnificent Mile is world famous for upscale shopping, world class dining venues with panoramic views of the city, hip and sophisticated hotels, and celebrity sightings -- of course. Along the Magnificent Mile (or Mag Mile) you will find high-end designers such as Gucci, Hugo Boss, Armani, Escada, and Bottega Veneta as well as less expensive retailers such as H&M. The Apple Store, Nike, Levi's, Polo, Nordstrom's, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdale's are also located on the Mag Mile. Architectural gems such as the Old Water Tower, the John Hancock Center, the more.. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] address: Roughly 950 North to Wacker Drive Millennium Park Edit This Millennium Park with flowers & Frank Gehry Sculpture Millennium Park with flowers & Frank Gehry Sculpture photo by: Joseph Hollick This 24.5 acre park owned by the City of Chicago includes work by a collection of artists, designers, landscapers and architects including: Kathryn Gustafson, Frank Gehry, Juame Plensa, and Anish Kapoor. It is also home to the 300-seat Park Grill, situated right next to a 16,000 square foot ice-skating rink that converts to a 150-seat star-lit dining area featuring outdoor concerts and fashion shows. Other highlights include: a music pavilion, theater, garden, and Ameritech Plaza, fountain. The Symphony Center has enough space for 120 musicians and 150 singers and it can seat more.. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312-742-1168 openingHours: 6:00 a.m. to 11 p.m. url: www.millenniumpark.org address: corner of Columbus and Randolph email: millennium-park@cityofchicago.org Lincoln Park Zoo Edit This Lincoln Park Zoo Lincoln Park Zoo photo by: Kenneth Hong Lincoln Park Zoo has as many events as it does exhibits. It's very family-oriented, with a huge petting zoo/living farm program. They do many presentations during the day, often in smaller, intimate groups - and often with animals. ADMISSION IS FREE. Events are offered year round with a huge range of interests and age targets. There are also seven restaurants and three places to shop. The animal exhibits include Birds, Tropical Birds, African Large Mammals (i.e. Giraffes, Rhinos), Large Cats, Forest Animals (i.e. Bears, Otters), Reptiles, Fowl, more.. type: Parks, Gardens and Zoos World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312 742 2000 openingHours: varies by season url: www.lpzoo.com address: 2100 N. Clark Street Chicago IL 60614 Navy Pier Edit This Navy Pier is the place where locals and people from the surrounding areas and beyond come to play. In fact, the number of visitors to Navy Pier is estimated at somewhere around 8 million. In addition to dozens of opporotunities to take a cruise around Lake Michigan, a speed boat ride, or a number of architectural cruises, the Pier has a massive Ferris wheel, a game center, and a food court, several bar & grill restaurants, seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and more. Navy Pier is located at 600 East Grand Avenue and is easily accessed by bus, taxi, subway, and a free more.. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.navypier.com address: 600 East Grand Avenue Sears Tower Edit This Sears Tower stands at 1,450 feet tall and 110 stories high making it the tallest building in North America and the third tallest building in the world. Inside, the building has 3.8 million square feet of space and skydeck that has to be experienced to be believed -- it is the one of the world's highest observatories. The Sears Tower Skydeck is located at 233 S. Wacker Drive. The Skydeck is open 365 days a year. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312-875-9696 or 312-875-9447 openingHours: 10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. April-September and until 8:00 p.m. October-March url: www.theskydeck.com address: 233 S. Wacker Drive John G. Shedd Aquarium Edit This Not only has John G. Shedd aquarium been a leader in the zoo and aquarium profession for more than 75 years, the building is a national historic landmark. The aquarium features several massive exhibits including: Wild Reef -- Sharks at Shedd, Oceanarium, Waters of the World, Caribbean Reef, and Amazon Rising. Shedd has regularly scheduled special exhibits. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312-939-2438 openingHours: See Website url: www.sheddaquarium.org address: 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive _________Getting Around Edit This Chicago's elevated "L" train Chicago's elevated "L" train Joseph Hollick The best way to get around the city during your Chicago vacation is by foot. The city is very easy to navigate, and walking is the best way to get the full flavor of the city. This is one of a few American cities that is most enjoyable without a car. When your feet need a break, public transit is readily available, and is not bad by American standards. The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority, www.transitchicago.com) is the public transportation system serving the city. It consists of the "L" or El, and an elaborate network of buses. The El, an elevated train, is the quickest and cheapest mode of transportation between O'Hare and Midway airports and the Loop downtown, and it is also a major Chicago landmark. Shuttle buses leave at regular intervals from both airports to major downtown Chicago hotels and there are lots of taxis waiting to whisk you into the city, though they're expensive. Taxis are really only expensive once you leave the downtown area. If you are looking for quick transportation around Chicago, say from a Museum Campus to Navy Pier, taxis aren't that bad. It's still recommended that you walk, though, because this is the best way to enjoy the city. If you're looking for transportation into the suburbs or outlying areas of Chicago, the El or Metra ( www.metrarail.com) is recommended. Navy Pier also provides free trolleys year round that criss-cross around downtown Chicago (maps are available at Navy Pier). All the major car rental companies have outposts at the airport as well as branches in the city and suburbs. Most visitors should be able to use the El for almost all their transit needs, the exception being those going to Hyde Park, certain areas of Lincoln Park near the lake, and the area east of the Loop (in the center of downtown, where all the different lines of the El come together), which includes Navy Pier and the waterfront (though it is not a far walk from the Loop to either). El line maps are available online at www.transitchicago.com. CTA buses go almost everywhere but they do so on erratic schedules. A web of commuter trains running under the Metra banner run by the RTA (Regional Transportation Authority, www.rtachicago.com) serve the suburbs surrounding Chicago, and is recommended if you're trying to reach the further-out suburbs such as Wheaton. These trains are reasonably priced and are lots of fun for children. Try Evanston for vegetarian restaurants, coffee, Ten Thousand Villages on Main Street for fair trade products and walks along the lake. In Chicago, try Andersonville (North Clark Street between Foster and Berwyn) for art galleries, feminist bookshop, gourmet foods and what's left of the Swedish community. Restuarants of all flavours exist. Kopi Traveller's Cafe is a great hangout and offers snacks and coffee and atmosphere. Another recommendation is Latizia's on the north side. Every suburb outside of Chicago has it's own "downtown" area, and each is unique and usually overlooked. They also usually have free parking. If you're staying in Chicago for many days, it's recommended that you visit at least a few of these areas. A suburb I recommend is Elmhurst, which has it's own myriad of museums, gorgeous parks, fountains, public art, and shops. Visit any Chicago bookstore for a selection of books which can recommend great places to visit. While CTA buses are known for arriving in 'bunches' (say two arrive at the same stop simultaneously), there is a fixed schedule for BOTH buses and trains. Check schedules at www.transitchicago.com and download maps and timetables as well. Despite the little boxes that CTA personnel seem to live in at the el platforms -most will be friendly and give directions! ______Getting There Edit This You will never have to worry about transportation during your Chicago vacation. A Chicago trip is best enjoyed on foot and by using the city's excellent public transportation system. The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority, www.transitchicago.com) is the public transportation system serving the city. It consists of the "L" or El, and an elaborate network of buses. The El, an elevated train, is the quickest and cheapest mode of transportation between O'Hare International Airport ( www.ohare.com) and Midway Airport ( www.chicago-mdw.com) and the Loop downtown or anywhere in the city. The El is also a major Chicago landmark so your sightseeing starts here! Shuttle buses leave at regular intervals from both airports to major downtown Chicago hotels and there are lots of taxis waiting to whisk you into the city, though they're expensive. Taxis are really only expensive once you leave the downtown area. Yellow Cab Chicago is the city's number one taxicab company ( www.yellowcabchicago.com). ______Museums Edit This [Add Museum] Adler Planetarium Edit This The oldest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, it is renowned for its fine collection of historic astronomical instruments and its splendid sky shows. Admission: Free Tuesday; Adults: $3, Children (4-17) $2; Seniors $2; Sky Show $2; type: general World66 rating: [rate it] address: 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive openinghours: Monday - Thursday: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Fridays till 9pm, and weekends till 6pm Museum of Science and Industry Edit This At The Museum of Science and Industry you can explore many exhibits about machinery and health, from touring a U-505 German submarine, walking through a "heart," going deep into a coal mine, or watching a movie at the Omnimax Theater. City museum passes are available for this location. World66 rating: [rate it] address: 5700 S Lake Shore Drive tel: (773) 684-1414 Shedd Aquarium Edit This This is the world's largest indoor aquarium, featuring exhibits of ecosystems from all over the world including coral reefs, the Amazon rainforest, and Pacific Northwest. It contains over 650 species of seahorses and 25 sharks. City museum passes are available for this location. World66 rating: [rate it] address: 1200 S Lake Shore Drive tel: (312) 939-2438 Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum Edit This This museum is located in Chicago's Pilsen/Little Village area, a strongly Mexican community. It exhibits traditional and contemporary Mexican art in various mediums. Head over to this museum around the Day of the Dead to purchase sugar skulls decorated right in front of you. World66 rating: [rate it] address: 1852 W 19th St tel: (312) 738-1503 Art Institute of Chicago Edit This Art Instatute Of Chicago Art Instatute Of Chicago photo by: Robert Roby The Art Institute, which comprises both a museum and a school, found its permanent home on Michigan Avenue in 1893. The original, core beaux-arts building, designed by Shepley, Rutan, and Coolidge, was built for the World's Columbian Exposition. The museum houses more than 300,000 works of art within its 10 curatorial departments. Among its great treasures are the legendary masterpieces A Sunday Afternoon on La Grand Jatte--1884 by Georges Seurat, American Gothic by Grant Wood, Nighthawks by Edward Hopper, and 33 paintings by Claude Monet. The Art Institute of Chicago is a more.. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] address: The 111 South Michigan Avenue openinghours: Weekdays from 10:30 am - 5:00 pm, Weekends from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm url: www.artic.edu Field Museum Edit This This museum includes three levels of exhibits, featuring a popular multi-level Egyptology section (highly recommended) and MANY other permanent and rotating exhibits. The Field Museum is famous for housing the largest and most complete skeleton of a T. Rex ever found, dubbed Sue. The Museum was founded in 1893 and, in 1921, moved to it's current location on the Museum Campus, right next to the Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium in the southern part of downtown Chicago. Soldier Field is also in this area, so please note if there are any more.. World66 rating: [rate it] zipcode: 60605 url: www.fieldmuseum.org address: 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr tel: (312) 922-9410 A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum Gallery Edit This It is the first African American Labor History Museum in Chicago. Phone: +1-312-928-3029, Hours: Admission: $2. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] address: 10406 S. Maryland Avenue openinghours: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, & alternate Saturday 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m Museum of Contemporary Art Edit This The MCA is one of the nation's largest modern art museums, featuring work created since 1945 by artists like Franz Kline, Andy Warhol and Jeff Koons. Admission for adults is $10, seniors and students with ID $6, and children under 12 are free. Admission on Tuesdays is free from 5-8 pm. Attend "First Fridays," a festivity from 6-10 pm on the first Friday of every month. World66 rating: [rate it] address: 220 E Chicago Ave tel: (312) 280-2660 Clarke House Museum Edit This The Clarke House, built in 1836, is Chicago's oldest surviving building. It's really the only place in Chicago to see how an early Chicago family lived. The furnishings and wallpaper are from the period. An informative time-line display in the basement tells how the histories of the house and city are intertwined. The restored Greek Revival home is also famous for having been moved three times from its original location on Michigan Avenue between 16th and 17th Streets. When the city moved it back to its current location near the original site in 1977, the Clarke house more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312 745-0040 openingHours: Tours at 1 and 2 PM address: 1827 S. Indiana Ave _______Hyde Park Edit This Hyde Park is a cozy historical neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. It is relatively small, running from 51st Street on the North to 59th Street on the South, from Cottage Grove Avenue on the West to Lake Michigan on the East. The best way to get there from Downtown Chicago is either taking the Metra train from Randolph Street station, or taking bus #6 (Jackson Park Express) from anywhere on State Street. Hyde Park boast the presence of the renowned University of Chicago, and it is worth while strolling over the Nobel Laureate invested Campus for a while and enjoy the gothic architecture intended last century to give it immediate status as a center of learning. The Robie House, Frank Lloyd Wright's most beautiful example of a prairy style house, is on campus as well and can be visited daily (before 3pm) . ____ A Perfect Day Edit This A Perfect Day in Chicago Alright, you arrived in Chicago and there is the risk that you will be wandering aimlessly around downtown. The enormity of the city may scare you at first, but soon you will notice that there are certain landmarks that you will always come back to and quickly recognize. When you don't have too much time in the city and still want to get a full flavor, let me describe here what would count as a perfect day in Chicago. You will have found some form of accomodation in downtown Chicago (Hostelling International is a good location/resource) and first you want to discover a little bit of the old Chicago that was not destroyed by the fire of 1871 and of course get breakfast! Take the Metra train (any!) from Randolph Street Station to 55-56-57 Street stop (this is one stop with this peculiar name; if you have the express train, get off at 59th Street). You will have arrived at the historic quarter called Hyde Park on the South Side of the city. Besides boasting the presence of University of Chicago with its many Nobel Prize winners, it has the perfect place for breakfast: Go to Medici on 57th, approximately five blocks West of the Metra track and get "Eggs Espresso". This will certainly coat your stomach for an intensive day in the city! Hyde Park has a lot to see, but you will have to make a choice. If you have some kids to take around, the Science and Industry Museum (The largest in the world, on two blocks East of the Metra Track on 57th Street; Thursdays free entrance) is a perfect place to let them run around for a while. The Museum itself is housed in one of the only remaining buildings of the Columbian Exposition of 1893. Very impressive. If you want to have some more grown-up fun, you can visit one of Frank Lloyd Wright's (American architect, 1867-1959) most beautiful creations, The Robie House, two blocks away from Medici on the corner of Woodlawn Avenue and 58th Street (6 blocks West of Metra Track on 58th Street; Tours weekdays 10am 11am 1pm 3pm, weekends more, $8 per person). After the tour or visit to the Science and Industry Museum, get back to downtown. Take either the Metra train or take the Bus #6 (Jeffrey Express) 3 blocks East of the Metra track on Hyde Park Blvd. You cannot visit Chicago without strolling through the Art Institute on Michigan Avenue (8 blocks South of the river, Tuesday free entrance) for a while. The Museum has one of the world's best Impressionist collection and it is worthwhile marvelling at Chagall's huge blue windows that he painted especially for the Museum in the '70s at the end of his long artistic career. Maybe at two o'clock the Chicago Cubs will be playing a home game in Wrigleyville. The baseball team may not be one of the best, but their stadium is one of the oldest in the country and very intimate. You can generally get tickets just before the game starts. Otherwise you could head out to the Lincoln Park Zoo (located at 2200 North Cannon Drive, at Lake Shore Drive and Fullerton Parkway) also on the North Side. Public transportation can take you there within a few blocks. (Call CTA for details: 312/836-7000) The entrance is free and the zoo is always a lot of fun. While you are on the North Side make sure to get some lunch in some of the great restaurants on N. Clark St. stretching from just North of downtown to 40 block further North. You'll be sure to find something that you like and can afford. If it is a rainy day (there is some precipitation in this Windy City), you may want to stay inside. And isn't this the city with tall buildings? Indeed. The tallest is the Sears Tower, but personally I believe you can get a nicer view from the John Hancock Building (Open 7 days a week, until midnight; $8.50 adults). It is right near the Old Water Tower on Michigan Avenue. And anyway it is hard to miss, right? When the evening falls in the city you don't want to lock yourself in your hotel room; and there is no need for that. Downtown Chicago is relatively safe and there is a lot to do. With kids you probably want to head out to Navy Pier, an entertainment area that is open all year round every day of the week. It has a big Ferris Wheel, a bric-a-brac market, a big Imax theatre and much more (East from downtown on Ontario Ave. stretching out into Lake Michigan; Entrance free; open year round until 10pm). Without kids you are free to enjoy one of Chicago's main exports: live jazz and blues. There are many clubs around downtown. Buddy Guys Legends (754 S. Wabash, 800N, 100W, 312-427 0333, usual cover $6) is one of the big blues clubs. A personal favorite is Andy's with live jazz every evening, usually starting early and finishing late (11 E. Hubbard St., 12-642-6805, usual cover $6). You can dine relaxed while listening to live jazz! After the last jazz note has left the trumpet you are probably ready to go to bed after a very satisfying day in Chicago. ______Day Trips Edit This During your exciting Chicago trip, you may decide that you want to take a short break from all of the excitement of the city or you may want to try something different for a night. What’s great about taking a Chicago vacation is that you can take a break for a quick drive or train ride to a nearby city or town. Chicago is just a short drive from Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana and hundreds of pleasant suburban areas such as Naperville and Oak Park. Each of these areas has something special to offer -- and some things that Chicago just may not have. Take Indiana, for instance. Here you can spend a night gambling on a riverboat casino. And how about Wisconsin, where you can spend the day hiking, horseback riding or touring Lake Geneva on a steamboat! Many of Chicago's suburban areas have a lot more to offer than you may think. Naperville features a living history museum, the areas famous Riverwalk, and plenty of historic landmarks to explore. Continue reading to learn more about some of Chicago’s most popular day trips! Contributors June 04, 2008 new by mcburton [Add Day Trip] Lake Geneva Edit This Lake Geneva has always been a favorite weekend getaway for Chicagoans, residents of Indiana, and many cities within Wisconsin's borders such as Milwaukee. At roughly 79 miles from Chicago or around 1-1/2 hour drive from Chicago, visitors from the city can spend a full day at Lake Geneva, and make it back to Chicago in time to see a Comedy show, have dinner or go out dancing. At 135 feet deep and 5,626 acres, Lake Geneva (Geneva Lake) is the second deepest lake in Wisconsin. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, boating, swimming, fishing, and steamboat cruises as well as more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 262-248-4416 url: www.lakegenevawi.com address: Lake Geneva Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, 201 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva WI, 53147 email: staff@lakegenevawi.com Naperville Edit This Naperville has the best of both worlds. It's big enough to still have a city feel (population 140,000, the 4th largest city in Illinois), but far enough away from the city to have a more relaxed feel. Located only 30 miles from Chicago, Naperville is easily reached by Metra Train (www.metrarail.com) or by car. Major points of interest include: Downtown Naperville and the Riverwalk, Centennial Beach, Moser Millennium Carillon and Moser Tower, and the 13-acre outdoor living history Museum "Naper Settlement" (www.napersettlement.org). The DuPage Children's Museum and more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 630-305-7701 url: www.visitnaperville.com address: Naperville Convention and Visitors Bureau, 212 S. Webster, Naperville IL, 60540 email: ncvb@naper.org Harbor Country Michigan Edit This Harbor Country isn't just one place, it's actually made up of eight towns. These include: Union Pier, Three Oaks, Harbert, Grand Beach, Lakeside, Michiana, Sawyer, and New Buffalo. The drive is less than an hour and a half (70 miles) and what you will find here are white sandy beaches, antique shops, wineries, bike paths, and plenty of walking trails. Activities run the gamut from canoeing and sailing to golfing, shopping, dining, and more. The best time to visit Harbor Country is summer, with fall coming in at a close second. Winter is also popular for skiing, snowmobiling, more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 269-469-5409 url: www.harborcountry.org address: Harbor Country Chamber of Commerce, 530 S. Whittaker Street, New Buffalo MI, 49117 email: request@harborcountry.org _______Nightlife and Entertainment Edit This Chicago has it's fair share of nightclubs, lounges, and restaurant bars, but what you will notice during your Chicago vacation is plenty of sports bars, bar & grills, and laid back taverns or neighborhood bars that are friendly and welcoming to all. Chicago is a sports town, an eating town and a drinking town, so on any given night of the week you will find packed watering holes, groups watching the game at one of the city's many sports bars or small groups of friends having a cocktail at a hip lounge. This is not to say that Chicago doesn't have plenty of nightlife activities outside of boozing. There's the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, gallery openings and events just about every night of the week, Ballet Chicago, Comedy Clubs, live Jazz and Blues music galore, and more. So, whether you're interested in seeing a performance, listening to some live Jazz, attending a gallery event or watching the game on 10 big screen TVs -- Chicago has you covered, and then some! Contributors June 09, 2008 change by mcburton Display all or display just: Bars & Cafes Clubs and dancing Concerts Dancing Gay and Lesbian Live Music Pubs Show best rated on top | Show in alphabetical order [Add Entertainment place] Palm Tavern Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 446 E 47th St tel: (773)285-9440 Schubas Tavern Edit This Schubas is another small music venue beloved by music fans all over Chicago. type: Concerts World66 rating: [rate it] address: 3159 N Southport Ave tel: (773) 525-2508 Sidetrack Edit This Huge video bar in Lakeview (Boystown) with different video themes each night. Located just south of Roscoe on Halsted. Accessible by the CTA via the Belmont Red Line stops and the #8 Halsted Bus. type: Gay and Lesbian World66 rating: [rate it] ClosingTime: 2am Sun-Fri, 3am Sat tel: 773-477-9189 url: www.sidetrackchicago.com address: 3349 N Halsted Lampo Edit This Electronic and electroacoustic music, free improvisation and sound art projects. type: Concerts World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.lampo.org address: 2116 W. Chicago Avenue Ravenswood Pub Edit This Possibly the last great Chicago neighborhood pub! type: Pubs World66 rating: [rate it] address: 5455 N Ravenswood Ave tel: (773)769-6667 ClosingTime: 2:00 am Sun-Fri, 3:00 am Saturday url: www.RavenswoodPubChicago.com Green Dolphin Street (Jazz) Edit This type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] address: 2200 N Ashland Ave tel: (773) 395-0066 Kingston Mines (Blues) Edit This type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] address: 2548 N Halsted St tel: (773) 472-2031 Sound-Bar Edit This SOUND-BAR is Chicago's most recent upscale nightclub set in a 20,000 square foot multilevel high-tech environment... with its ultra-modern design and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, Sound-bar will spoil the senses leaving nothing to the imagination... Stainless steel, smoked glass, and fine custom made furniture are incorporated in a minimalist setting to create this masterpiece. SOUND-BAR is the prototype of tomorrow's mega club introducing the concept of "fine dancing" to the Midwest... luxurious and stylish... A 4,000 square foot dance floor, Multiple bars, more.. type: Clubs and dancing World66 rating: [rate it] zipcode: 60610 address: 226 West Ontario Street url: www.sound-bar.com tel: 312 787 4480 Kasey's Tavern Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 701 S Dearborn St tel: (312)427-7992 Green Mill Cocktail Lounge (Jazz) Edit This type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] address: 4802 N Broadway St tel: (773) 878-5552 Earnie's Tap Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 7112 W Higgins Ave tel: (773)631-1843 Tequila Club Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 2507 W 59th St tel: (773)925-7704 Checker Board Lounge (Blues) Edit This type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] address: 423 E 43rd St tel: (773) 624-3240 Fifth Floor Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 440 N Halsted St tel: (312)226-4555 White Lantern Club Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 6014 W 26th St tel: (708)863-9066 Kazmierzanka Lounge Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 4785 S Archer Ave tel: (773)890-9002 Fayez Social Club Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 3456 W 63rd St tel: (773)476-9280 621 Club Ltd Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 4621 N Clark St tel: (773)784-3864 700 North St Louis Block Club Edit This *D:Red Dog Club type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 707 N Saint Louis Ave addess: 1958 W North Ave tel: (773)278-1009 The Empty Bottle (varied) Edit This THE best music in Chicago type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.emptybottle.com address: 1035 N Western Ave tel: (773) 27-3600 Tavern On the Pier Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 435 E Illinois St tel: (312)321-8090 Three Arts Club Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 1300 N Dearborn St tel: (312)944-6250 Mad About Money Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 7902 S Perry Ave tel: (773)783-2544 5000 West Adams Block Club Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 5042 W Adams St tel: (773)626-1396 Jazz Showcase (Jazz) Edit This type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] adddress: 59 W Grand Ave tel: (312) 670-2473 Rosa's Lounge (Blues) Edit This type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] address: 3420 W Armitage Ave tel: (773) 342-0452 Dandys Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 3729 N Halsted St tel: (773)525-1200 Garcia's Place Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 4434 S Wood St tel: (773)847-3452 Who Cares Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 10701 S Green Bay Ave tel: (773)731-4106 Saints Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 2936 N Southport Ave tel: (773)529-5510 Park West (Varied) Edit This type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] address: 322 W Armitage tel: (312) 929-5959 Web Pub Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 2026 W Webster Ave tel: (773)276-3411 Dakota Inn Edit This type: Dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 12119 S Crawford Ave tel: (708)388-6622 Dana's Place Edit This type: Bars & Cafes World66 rating: [rate it] address: 4715 S Paulina St tel: (773)523-9226 Andy's Lounge (Jazz) Edit This type: Live Music World66 rating: [rate it] address: 11 E. Hubbard St. tel: (312) 642-6805 Ontourage Edit This Chicago's Premiere Sexy Upscale Downtown club. 21+ | demomix.com type: Clubs and dancing World66 rating: [rate it] address: 157 W. Ontario ClosingTime: 9-4am closingtime: 9-4am zipcode: www.demomix.com Smart Bar Edit This House Music! type: Clubs and dancing World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.smartbarchicago.com The Metro Edit This The Metro is a relatively small venue (holds about 1200) that hosts live musical acts year round. Bands such as Ministry and the Smashing Pumpkins got their start on this stage. type: Concerts World66 rating: [rate it] address: 3730 N Clark St tel: (773) 549-0203 Double Door Edit This The Double Door is one of Chicago's finest music venues and is the Metro's "little sibling." It is located in Wicker Park, a youthful naighborhood with plenty of edgy record and clothing stores as well as its share of bars. All shows are 21+. type: Concerts World66 rating: [rate it] address: 1572 N Milwaukee Ave tel: (773) 489-3160 _________Things to do Edit This Adler Planetarium Adler Planetarium Go Chicago Card Winter, summer, spring or fall, there is always something fun and exciting to do in Chicago. This means, no matter when you decide to take your Chicago trip, you will always find something to suit your fancy. During the winter months, Millennium Park is like a winter wonderland with ice skaters enjoying the 16,000-square-foot ice- skating rink or tourists checking out the artwork and architecture by famous artists, designers, and landscapers such as Kathryn Gustafson, Frank Gehry, Juame Plensa, and Anish Kapoor. During the warmer months, biking along the Lake Shore Drive bike path is popular or sunbathing at North Avenue Beach. Continue reading to find out more about things to do in Chicago -- for all seasons! Contributors June 04, 2008 change by mcburton [Add Activity] North Avenue Beach Edit This North Avenue Beach is the most popular beach in Chicago. During the summer months, the beach hosts championship volleyball games and other events, it has an outdoor workout area, rollerblade rink, a popular bar & grill called "Castaways," and it is located along one of the most famous bike paths in the city -- the Lake Shore Drive bike path. type: Going to the Beach World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 773-327-2706 address: 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive Navy Pier Edit This Navy Pier is the place where locals and people from the surrounding areas and beyond come to play. In fact, the number of visitors to Navy Pier is estimated at somewhere around 8 million. In addition to dozens of opportunities to take a cruise around Lake Michigan, a speed boat ride, or a number of architectural cruises, the Pier has a massive Ferris wheel, a game center, and a food court, several bar & grill restaurants, seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and more. Navy Pier is located at 600 East Grand Avenue and is easily accessed by bus, taxi, subway, and a free more.. type: Sailing World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312-595-Pier; 800-595-Pier url: www.navypier.com address: 600 East Grand Avenue email: navypierinfo@mpea.com Shedd Aquarium Edit This Not only has John G. Shedd aquarium been a leader in the zoo and aquarium profession for more than 75 years, the building is a national historic landmark. The aquarium features several massive exhibits including: Wild Reef -- Sharks at Shedd, Oceanarium, Waters of the World, Caribbean Reef, and Amazon Rising. Shedd has regularly scheduled special exhibits. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312-939-2438 url: www.sheddaquarium.org address: 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive Bike Chicago Edit This There are a number of bike paths located throughout the streets of Chicago, but the most popular (and most scenic) bike path in the city is the path that runs along Lake Shore Drive. With the drive to the west of you and the lake Michigan to the east, this ride is certainly a feast for the eyes. Bike Chicago has the largest bike rental fleet in the city. In addition to bike rentals, Bike Chicago offers guided bicycle tours of the city (neighborhoods, sculptures, the lakefront, and more), segway tours, and group outings. Bike Chicago has several locations: Riverwalk at more.. type: Cycling World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312-595-9600 url: www.bikechicago.com address: 600 E. Grand Avenue, Navy Pier email: info@bikechicago.com Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course Edit This If you want to take some time out to play golf in the city, look no further than the Sydney R. Marovitz Golf Course. Part of the Chicago Park District, this lakefront golf course is a 3,240 yard, par 36 course. The first hole runs parallel to Lake Michigan. Onsite is a snack bar and Clock Tower restaurant. Just a short walk away, you will also find several tennis courts, a bird sanctuary, Chicago's famous totem pole statue, and the north end of the Lake Shore Drive bike path. type: Golf World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312-742-7930 address: 3600 N. Recreation Drive The Field Museum Edit This One of the top natural history museums in the world, the Field Museum is home to more than 20 million specimens and a whopping 25,000-volume natural history library. Permanent exhibits offer a trip back in time to Ancient Egypt and temporary exhibits have included famous traveling exhibits such as the Auschwitz Album and King Tut, to name a few. type: Other World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 312-665-7683 url: www.fieldmuseum.org address: 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago River Canoe & Kayak Edit This Yes! You can go kayaking right in the heart of the city on a private trip or with a group. Chicago River Canoe & Kayak offers a number of kayaking events such as cardio kayak, trips to the areas rivers, moonlight dinner paddles, and more. Visit the website for details or call directly to speak with a guide. type: Rowing and Canoeing World66 rating: [rate it] tel: 773-704-2663; 773-252-3307 url: www.chicagoriverpaddle.com address: 3400 N. Rockwell email: info@chicagoriverpaddle.com |