Chicago Area
Chicago is a dynamic city with something for everyone. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it is beautifully situated, and is an ideal place for those who enjoy a big city feel without being too far away from nature. Many joggers and bikers can be seen cruising along the winding paths that run along the lake, while a few blocks away, people in their business attire hurry along the sidewalks to work. Since Chicago is one of the older cities in the US, it still has some architecturally beautiful buildings that lend to its character. Those who visit will find friendly people, great food, and a unique city that should not be missed.
Highlights of Chicago
- Wrigley Field
- The Hancock Observatory
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Shedd Aquarium
- Lincoln Park Zoo
Historical Sites
Wrigley Field
Whether or not you are into baseball, you can't help but be impressed by the classic charm of this old fashioned ballpark. Wrigley Field is one of the oldest ballparks in the US and, remarkably, the scoreboard is still changed by hand. You may also notice that no lighting has been added to the park due to fans strongly protesting the idea when it was originally proposed. Even if you don't watch a game, it's still worth walking around the area. It's fun to note the residences next to the park that have added bleachers to their rooftops to catch a glimpse of a Cubs game.
Lincoln Park Zoo
This is one of the few zoos left in the US that does not charge admission. Started with only a pair of swans in 1868, the zoo now houses more than 1000 mammals, reptiles and birds along 35 acres of lakefront property. For additional information regarding opening hour and directions, please call: 312 742 2000.
The Old Water Tower
The Old Water Tower is one of the few buildings to have survived the Chicago Fire of 1871. Now it is used as a small museum. It's hard to miss as you walk along Michigan Avenue as its stone construction is in stark contrast to the more modern buildings that now make-up the city center.
Activities
Bobby's Bike Hike
This is a great tour for those who want to see the Chicago sites while on the back of a bicycle. Guides take a light-hearted approach to the tour and riders do not have to be particularly fit to still be able to participate and enjoy the day. More information may be found at www.bobbysbikehike.com.
The Hancock Observatory
Newly renovated, The Hancock Observatory is a wonderful way to see Chicago from above as it houses the only open-air Skywalk in the city. The Skywalk is not as high as that of Sears Tower; however it is still a daunting 1000 feet above the ground. In addition, there are audio tours available which give visitors a nice overview of the city and a fun space where people can pose as a 1968 construction worker, among other things, through the magic of trick photography. Open daily from 9am-11pm. Additional information may be found at www.hancock-observatory.com. ISE Cardholders receive $2.00 off of the admission price.
Sears Tower
Formerly known as the world's tallest building, The Sears Tower has now become a symbol of Chicago. Those who aren't afraid of heights may want to go up to the enclosed Skydeck for some breathtaking views of the city and lake below. Please visit www.the-skydeck.com for more information.
The Shedd Aquarium
Constructed in 1929, the Shedd Aquarium enjoys a spectacular location on the waterfront of Lake Michigan. With its 200 tanks, it also contains the world's largest assortment of aquatic creatures, from smaller animals such as tropical fish and penguins all the way up to dolphins, whales, and sharks. Additional information may be obtained by calling: 312 939 2438. The Aquarium website is www.shedd.org.
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is known as one of the world's premier museums. Housing a collection of art spanning over 5000 years, this truly is a worthwhile place to visit. It has been said that the museum's impressionist and postimpressionist collection is second only to France's. Hours: Mon, Wed-Fri 10:30am-4:40pm, Tue 10:30am-8:00pm, Sat & Sun 10:00am-5:00pm. For more information, please call: 312 443 3600. The museum's website is: www.artic.edu/aic.
The Navy Pier
For those who want a nice place to spend an afternoon, The Navy Pier is a good choice with its giant Ferris wheel, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. Depending on when you go, you might also be able to catch a concert at the Skyline Stage.
Places to Stay
Hostels
There are a wide variety of hostels in Chicago. To search for hostels online with full descriptions, photos and availability features, please click here. The $2 reservation fee will be waived when booking through this site.
Places to Eat
Chicago has 1000's of restaurants to choose from, but some of the most popular can be viewed at the following site: http://www.aklehr.com/ChiRest.html. Among the favorites are "Hi Ricky", a great Thai place, "Heaven on Seven", "Manny's Deli", "McCormick & Schmick's", "Mr. Beef" (one of Jay Leno's favorite spots), and "Red Star Tavern".
Beef N Brandy
This is another great spot located right next to The Palmer House. Menu items are varied ranging from baby back ribs to Greek salads and prices are moderate. ISE Cardholders will receive 10% off, except for lunch (11am-2pm).
De Colores Mexican Restaurant
Located at 3156 N. Lincoln Ave, this is a great place for Mexican. Those with an ISE Card will receive 5% off during lunch ONLY (12pm-3pm).
Berghoff Restaurant
This historic restaurant was opened in 1898 and specializes in modern European food at middle of the range prices. It's also said to be the first restaurant to serve a legal drink at the end of Prohibition. Additional information may be found at www.berghoff.com.
Getting Around
Walking
Once you're in the city, there are a lot of great places to walk, such as Grant Park, the shoreline, as well as the Navy Pier area and shopping district. However, since Chicago is fairly large, it's probably best to supplement your walk with some form of alternative transport.
Car
While there are plenty of roads to access the city, it's probably a lot easier (and less stressful) to get around by using the efficient public transportation. Most of the scenic spots are not along the roads anyway.
Bus
The local buses in Chicago are slow but get you where you need to go.
Train
Quickest and cheapest way to get to the Loop in downtown Chicago is to take The El (an elevated train). The El runs from both Midway and O'Hare airports and is very easy to use.
Taxi
Taxis are widely available but can be expensive.
Air
The two main airports that service Chicago are O'Hare and Midway. O'Hare handles all of the major airlines, while Midway tends to be more for cut-rate carriers such as Southwest or ATA.
Moving On
Bus
Greyhound services the Chicago area and has reasonably priced fares to destinations throughout the US. ISE Cardholders that keep their Greyhound bus receipts will be reimbursed 10% off the ticket price (walk-up tickets only). Receipts must be sent to ISE.
Train
Since Chicago happens to be the hub for Amtrak's national and regional train service, it offers some excellent routes for travelers. Both long distance and shorter distance trains are available to destinations throughout the US. It's recommended to reserve any Amtrak journeys well in advance as they do tend to fill-up.
Air
Finding flights out of Chicago should not be a problem, especially out of O'Hare which services practically every airline.
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