Archive for
October, 2007
October 17th, 2007 by susan j
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Looking for things to do in Chicago this October? Look no further, because here’s a round-up of Halloween-themed activities in and around Chicago.
October 20-21 and 27-28
Brookfield Zoo presents Boo at the Zoo, featuring a costume parade, a haunted house, jack-o-lantern demonstrations, and more!
October 24-31
Navy Pier offers fireworks and other festivities as part of Navy Fear at Navy Pier. Ghostly Gardens features kid-friendly activities like inflatable rides, games, and more.
October 26-28
Millennium Park hosts a free family-friendly program called Spooky Stories Haunt the Park.
October 26-27
Shedd Aquarium hosts Spooky Seas, which includes costume contests, trick-or-treating, and a chance to sleep over at the aquarium!
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October 16th, 2007 by jamie a
The Palmer House Hotel
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Whether you’re traveling with your furry four-legged friend or with your three kids, we’ve got your bases covered on finding the right hotel in Chicago.
For family...
At the , you can rest assured that you and your children will have a wonderful stay. In the heart of the city, it’s a short walk to the Art Institute, Soldier Field, and the Shedd Aquarium. There’s also a pool to cool off after your long day of experiencing the city.
For business…
The Palmer House
is perfect for the business traveler. Conveniently located in within walking distance to Grant Park, Millenium Park, and Navy Pier, there’s plenty to do after a long day’s work. There’s also everything from a conference floor to video phone and photo copying services to suit your business needs.
For pets…
Overlooking Grant Park and Lake Michigan, the Hilton Chicago allows you to bring your pet along on vacation! A luxury hotel only minutes from the business loop and many parks, you and your furry friend will surely have a great time.
For a romantic trip…
From complimentary chocolates and robes to a luxurious marble bathroom, The Drake is the perfect match for those in the mood for love. Complete with antiques and 4 restaurants and bars, this is a great place to relax. You can also stop at the nearby Bloomingdale’s or the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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October 15th, 2007 by susan j
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Completed in 2004, Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s newest landmarks. This 24.5 acre stretch of land features an ice skating rink, contemporary sculptures and art, and a 4,000-seat bandstand designed by Frank Gehry. The park is a must-see for those visiting Chicago. If you’d like a low-cost way to see the sites, then you might like to take a free . Through the end of October, Millennium Park greeters offer tours daily at 10 am and 2 pm. Tours meet at the Welcome Center.
Millennium Park also offers free audio tours which you can download to your MP3 player if you prefer to explore at your own pace. While in the area, also check out the Art Institute of Chicago.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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October 12th, 2007 by susan j
Matt B. over at The Chicago Traveler tipped us off that the new season of Top Chef is being filmed right in the Windy City. Zagat recently interviewed Hung Huynh, winner of last season’s Top Chef (Matt points out he was unfortunately he was not the chef from Chicago). Zagat also highlights several notable restaurant openings in Chicago. Bon Appetite!
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October 11th, 2007 by jamie a
October 4 – October 17
With 360 performances and 160 movies from 44 countries, the 43rd Chicago International Film Festival has been taking over the Windy City. Indulge your movie-going side with this incredible event and experience the world through cinema.
Saturday, October 13 (3 pm - 6 pm)
Featuring 25-30 sparkling wines from all over the world, the second annual Efferfest is a must for any bubbly lover. Also showcasing some grand worldly treats from specialty cheeses to steak au poivre, Pops for Champagne sure know how to throw a festival!
Thursday, October 11 (8 pm – midnight)
Friday, October 12 (6 pm – 2 am)
Saturday, October 13 (11 am – 2 am)
Sunday, October 14 (11 am – 2 am)
The largest art event in the city, the Around the Coyote Fall Arts Festival, is sure to be a hit. In its 18th year, the festival features hundreds of works in the areas of visual, film, video, and performance art. There will also be literary readings and the sounds of more than 75 bands to listen and experience. Get your creativity flowing for this amazing lineup.
Friday, October 12 – Sunday, October 14
(9 pm every weekend in October!)
Get ready for Halloween with Navy Fear at Navy Pier. This ongoing event is conjuring up fireworks, face painting, screaming contests, haunted train rides, and ghoulish dance parties. If you’re brave, you can check out the “Demons of the Deep” haunted experience on the pier with different tours of terror—mild or wild.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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October 10th, 2007 by susan j
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A year or so ago, I said to my pal Clint, “gee, wouldn’t it be nice if MapQuest could give walking directions, too?”
Being the shrewd urbanite that he is, Clint said, “actually, Susan, there IS a website for that.” combines public transportation with walking directions so that pedestrians get the fastest and most direct way to get to their destination (no more meandering MapQuest directions!).
It even offers city guides so that visitors can find nearby restaurants, attractions, and more. HopStop is available in major US destinations including Boston, New York City, Chicago, and San Francisco, so it’s great for city-dwellers and tourists, too.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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October 9th, 2007 by susan j
If you’re traveling to the Windy City, then you’ll definitely be interested in this Chicago-themed quiz entitled “Test Your Travel Smarts” from Conde Nast Traveler. I will warn, it’s pretty challenging, and if you have to use wikipedia, then that is totally cheating!
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Chicago?
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October 8th, 2007 by susan j
The Chicago Traveler tipped us off about the Chicago International Film Festival, which runs now through October 17. In honor of Chicago’s IFF, I thought we’d pay homage to Chicago’s cinematic past. Courtesy of wikipedia, here’s a partial list of films that were shot in and around the Windy City:
- Batman Begins
- Blues Brothers
- Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
- High Fidelity
- My Best Friend’s Wedding
- Never Been Kissed
- Pretty in Pink
- Stranger Than Fiction
Click here to see Wikipedia’s complete list.
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Chicago?
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October 5th, 2007 by susan j
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Fall means back to school shopping, shorter days, and, of course, apple picking season! The Chicago Tribune has compiled a list of nearby apple orchards for apple-picking, so check it out. If you have a favorite fall tradition, then leave a comment and let us know. We might even feature your idea in a future blog post!
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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October 4th, 2007 by jamie a
Since it’s Chicago Artists Month, we’ve picked out a few activities for this weekend to satisfy your inner artist!
As part of their “40 Free Days” festival celebrating “40 Fearless Years,” at the Museum of Contemporary Art, here are a few amazing things to attend!
Saturday, October 6
free tours: learn the stories behind the art and artists at the museum with tours at noon, 1, 2, and 3 p.m.
Art Star: Todd Oldham: The designer will be signing copies of his new book, Charley Harper: An Illustrated Life at the MCA store at 2 p.m.
Sunday, October 7
Art in the ’60s tours: Meeting at the admission desk, MCA guides will explain the trends and ideas in art during the ’60s.
Outdoor rock concert: Celebrating independent bands, the Intonation Music Festival and the MCA present Rock/Art from 1 – 6 p.m. in the MCA plaza with a vibrant lineup of music.
A complete listing can be found at the MCA’s 40 Free Days website.
Friday, October 5 (6 - 10 p.m.)
Saturday, October 6 (11 a.m. - 8 p.m.)
Sunday, October 7 (12 – 5 p.m.)
The 12th annual Art on Harrison festival will be held on Harrison Street between Austin Blvd. and Ridgeland Avenue in Oak Park. From beaded mask-making workshops to face painting, this is an event not to be missed. Be sure to check out the fashion show, Haitian artists, sidewalk chalk fest and live music performances!
Saturday, October 6
From 10 am to 5 pm, you can support the independent crafter with a visit to the Rockwell Crossing Artwalk. From paintings, jewelry, and ceramics to handmade body products, sculpture, and mixed media, you’re sure to find something amazing to take home!
October 1 – December 30
At the Museum of Contemporary Art, you can see emerging artist Philip von Zweck’s conceptual art piece based on the genre of mail art. Entitled Post, von Zweck’s piece is a democratic experience where the viewer can participate and interact directly with the work.
Saturday, October 6 – Sunday, October 7
Starting at 11 am, Artswalk Ravenswood hosts the 6th Annual Tour of Arts and Industry where you can visit over 54 studio locations across the city opened up to the public by prominent and emerging artists. There’s a film screening and the creation of a Chicago installation, just to name a couple things to do!
For a complete listing of events this weekend, check out Chicago Artists Month Event Listings.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
