Destination: Chicago, Illinois for big city thrills and family fun
For a great getaway intended for families or couples, Chicago offers world-class shopping, exciting events, wonderful cuisine, and outstanding entertainment. There are numerous attractions and events for all ages and interests. Lakefront festivals and activities, theaters, professional sports, museums, and many other options will help you enjoy your visit to the fullest.
Chicago is built on the western shore of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois. It is the third largest metropolis in the United States. In 2006, more than 44 million people visited Chicago from around the world. This picturesque setting on the water stretches along the shoreline for about five miles. The impressive skyline of tall buildings includes the 110-story Sears Tower and a beautiful park built on the east side.
About Chicago
The city stretches for about 30 miles to the west into the plains. Since there is no protection from the wind and storms coming from the plains, weather is extreme in Chicago. Expect cold snowy winters and hot summers, although spring and fall are usually more comfortable.
This location on Lake Michigan has long been a site for river and lake traffic. Established in the early 1800's as a settlement near a river portage by Indians and white traders, it became an important center for commerce.
Since then Chicago has attracted immigrants from all over the world. There are separate ethnic neighborhoods all over the city. Near the downtown loop are Greek Town, Little Italy, Chinatown, Little Saigon, and the Ukrainian Village. Close by are the Polish, Afro-American, German, and Hispanic neighborhoods. Plan to visit one of these unique districts and check out the restaurants and shops.
Chicago attractions
When you visit Chicago, you must see extraordinary Millennium Park (www.millenniumpark.org/). This sophisticated showplace for art, music, and architecture covers 24.5 acres and is overflowing with beauty. One of the major features in the park is the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an outstanding outside concert venue. The Crown Fountain is another amazing work of art with 50-foot reflecting towers projecting faces of Chicago residents. Don't miss the immensely popular Lurie Garden and the Cloud Gate sculpture on the AT&T Plaza. In the winter, enjoy outdoor ice skating.
Tourists and Chicago citizens all love to visit the Navy Pier (www.navypier.com/home.html). Here in its 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, cafes and activities, you will find a host of events and entertainment. Take a boat tour or a dinner cruise, ride the 15-story McDonald's Ferris Wheel or watch a movie at the IMAX Theater. Take the children to the Chicago Children's museum and explore three floors of hands-on exhibits. Enjoy free entertainment at the Family Pavilion almost every day of the year. You won't need to fight traffic to have a day filled with fun activities.
The Sears Tower is the tallest building in the Western hemisphere, and you won't want to miss the view. On the Skydeck at 1,353 feet, you will be able to see across 40-50 miles on a clear day. Look over the city and into Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. Also see the interactive displays and child-sized exhibits of Chicago's history past and present. At the Hancock Observatory, visit the 1,000 foot open-air deck. Listen to the Sky Tours Audio presentation to learn more about the city.
Six Flags Great America (www.sixflags.com/greatAmerica/index.aspx) is the most popular theme park in the Midwest. Ride thrilling rides and see exciting shows for a fun day for the whole family. The Lincoln Park Zoo is free and a delightful place to spend the day. See over 1,000 animals in their natural habitats and take part in the many activities and shows going on throughout the year.
Culture in Chicago
The Chicago Cultural Center is open to help you plan your trips and tours. It also features daily programs and exhibitions in various arts. The Museum Campus is a 10-acre lakefront park that includes four of the city's main museums. There you will find the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, and the Shedd Aquarium. The Museum Campus adjoins Grant Park where the Art Institute of Chicago is located.
Chicago is well-known for its quality professional sports. In 2006, it was named the best sports city in the U.S. by The Sporting News magazine. See the Chicago Bears play football, the Cubs and White Sox play baseball, the Chicago Bulls play basketball, and Chicago Blackhawks play ice hockey. There are also several arena football teams.
Chicago is also home to many varied theatrical companies. There is everything from Broadway hits to improvisational groups. The Second City is a popular stage with a varied selection of plays. In Lincoln Park, the Steppenwolf Theater Company features a company of internationally known artists with compelling performances. The Ford Center for Performing Arts offers a variety of content, and the ComedySportz is a place of laughter with top-notch comedians and shows.
Shopping in Chicago
When you come to Chicago, you'll certainly want to make time for shopping. All year round, Chicago has some of the best shopping you can find. The Magnificent Mile is an eight-block area along North Michigan Avenue with an impressive selection of shops and stores. State Street, Armitage Avenue, and Oak Street feature department stores, boutiques, and specialty shops for a shopper's paradise. Arts and antiques can be found in the River North Gallery District. For outlet shopping, the Prime Outlets are in nearby Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin.
For nightly entertainment, Chicago is the place to enjoy blues, jazz, and dancing. Visit Blue Chicago, Buddy Guy's Legends, Andy's Jazz Club, and Green Dolphin Street to enjoy your favorite music. For extreme relaxation, include a trip to one of the luxurious spas or salons. For ultimate skin treatments and hair styling, try The Red Door Salon by Elizabeth Arden and the Asha Spa & Salon.
Chicago accommodations
If you want to be close to downtown and all the activity there, the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Chicago Downtown is conveniently located near the downtown area. It is just blocks from the Sears Tower, Grant Park, and other downtown attractions. The Amalfi Hotel Chicago is within walking distance of Michigan Street, Navy Pier, and The Loop Financial District.
For more economic lodgings, Days Inn Chicago is a popular choice. It includes amenities such as free breakfast, spa passes, free papers, and valet services. An excellent way to visit the best places in Chicago is through hotel packages that include hotel rates and tickets to your choice of shows, attractions, or games.
The city of Chicago is famous for its many attractions, events, and activities to participate in. You will want to pack every day with wondrous and fascinating activity. Ride fantastic rides, see the sights, enjoy music and theatre, and indulge yourself in wonderful food and relaxation. Then start over the next day with shopping, viewing the wild animals, a boat ride or take a break on the beach. There is never a moment to be bored in Chicago.