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Archive for November, 2007

The Frugal Traveler Visits Chicago

November 12th, 2007 by jamie a

New York Times writer Matt Gross traveled to Chicago this summer with only $500 to spend a fun-filled and exciting weekend in the Windy City. Under the title “The Frugal Traveler,” Matt offers tips (and musings) on staying in hostels, the architectural wonders of the city, and the famed Blues Festival in Grant Park.

In addition, Matt also visited some attractions which are part of the Go Chicago Card, including the Chicago Architecture Foundation tour and The Field Museum. He also recommends the restaurants La Pasadita (for rice, beans, and tacos) and visiting Millenium Park, a stunning park full of futuristic sculptures.

So, take it from Matt and have a fabulous time in Chicago that won’t break the bank. He certainly knows how to be frugal. His trip came out to be an impressive $370.16!

Planning a trip to Chicago? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Chicago Card.

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Chicago’s Midway in 5 Most On-Time Airports

November 9th, 2007 by susan j

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Photo uploaded by Rick Kimpel, Jr. (CC-BY-SA)

If you’ve been keeping up with travel news, then you’ve probably read about the recent issues with delays and stranded passengers at several major US airports (in fact, you might have been one of those unlucky passengers and have first-hand experience).

Well, on Wednesday the Wall Street Journal covered 8 airports that buck the trend in late arrivals. Chicago travelers should be delighted to hear that Chicago Midway Airport is listed as 5th for best on-time arrival rates so far this year. The other airports are in Salt Lake City, Oakland, San Diego, and Houston.

Planning a trip to Chicago? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Chicago Card.

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Chicago Events for the Week of 11/8

November 8th, 2007 by jamie a

Saturday, November 10
Join the Museum of Science for McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade School where children learn how to operate 60 ft. high parade balloons. Lend a hand in preparing for the upcoming parade at this free event.

Friday, November 9 - Sunday, November 11
The 4th Annual Filipino American Film Festival hits the Windy City this weekend. Check out the amazing schedule which includes everything from animation to musicals.

November 8 - 18
The second oldest in the nation, the 26th Annual Lesbian and Gay Film Festival is also playing in Chicago. It’s full of special events, including the opening on Thursday, November 8th, along with spotlights and panel discussions.

Saturday, November 10
Handmade Market Chicago provides an incredible event to celebrate the independent crafter! Find unique gifts for friends, upcoming holidays, or treat yourself to some beautiful finds.

Planning a trip to Chicago? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Chicago Card.

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Cheap Eats in Chicago

November 7th, 2007 by jamie a

110507-superdawg.jpg
Superdawg at Night
photo uploaded by jordanfischer

No matter what cuisine strikes your fancy, this guide to restaurants in Chicago will keep both your stomach and wallet happy!

A hidden gem in Chicago, Taste of Lebanon is a great stop to quench your hunger for falafel, lentil soup (said to be the best in the city) and shawarma. Locals say that this is the most authentic and traditional Middle Eastern food found in the city.

How often will you get the chance to have amazing Hawaiian food in the midwest? At Aloha Eats, a taste of paradise is right at your fingertips. From hearty portions of BBQ beef, Chicken Katsu, and traditional “Hawaiian-plates” with two scoops or rice and one of macaroni salad, this is the only islander cuisine in the city all at fabulous prices.

For a strictly traditional “Chicago-style” hot dog, look no further than Superdawg. Get an all-beef dog on a poppy seed bun with “golden mustard, tangy piccalilli, kosher dill pickle, chopped Spanish onions and a memorable hot pepper.” In business since 1948, check out their amazing history.

Paddy Mac’s, a great neighborhood pub, is a perfect spot for a late night with friends. Grab a burger, wings, oysters, shrimp, and top it off with some nostalgic tater tots! With beer specials, tv’s to watch the game, and dartboards, you can relax the night away with the locals.

Planning a trip to Chicago? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Chicago Card.

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Laugh it Up in Chicago!

November 6th, 2007 by jamie a

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Photo uploaded by Fuzzy Gerdes

Known for its thriving comedy scene, Chicago is a great spot for those who love to laugh. Whether you’d like something appropriate for the kids, or something for a night on the town with friends, we’ve got the best spots for humor right here.

Second City, Chicago’s best-known comedy club, boasts alums like Bill Murray, Amy Sedaris, and Steve Carell. Check out the mainstage show, as well as their smaller venue, the etc. theater. While most shows are comprised of mature topics (like current events and politics), this venue is open to teens and adults.

At Zanies, anyone 21+ can enjoy the laughs and drinks with the regulars. Check out their daily calendar to find your favorite stars from the Late Show, TBS’s My Boys, and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

For sports fans of all ages, ComedySportz Theatre, offers hilarious improv comedy shows. With two teams battling to win the laughs of the crowd, you’ll have a fabulous time.

Since 1981, iO Theater has been providing Chicago with incredible improv. With alums like Tina Fey, Mike Myers, and Vince Vaughn, join in the tradition of fun with one of their daily shows!

Planning a trip to Chicago? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Chicago Card.

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Field Museum Maps Out a New Exhibit

November 5th, 2007 by susan j

11022007fieldmuseum.jpgChicago’s Field Museum
Photo uploaded by whiteshark29

Last week Chicago’s Field Museum opened a new exhibit called “Maps: Finding Our Place in the World,” which is part of Chicago’s citywide Festival of Maps (click here for the full calendar of events).

As the Festival’s official blog points out, maps offer insight into the historical period in which they were created. Chicago’s rapid development in the nineteenth century appears in a series of maps from that period.  Other maps portray Chicago’s politically charged history of segregation. More contemporary maps reveal the proposed plans for the 2016 Olympic Games in Chicago. This Chicago Tribune article offers more details on this fascinating new exhibit.

Planning a trip to Chicago? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Chicago Card.

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Spend a Day in Lincoln Park

November 2nd, 2007 by amy c

Lincoln park
View of Chicago skyline from Lincoln Park Waterfront
Photo uploaded by
purOticorico (Richie Diesterheft)

Populated by young professionals and recent college graduates, this hip neighborhood is a city landmark full of fun sights for the family by day and classic Chicago nightlife of Blues clubs, pubs, and comedy clubs by night. Here are some of our picks for how to spend a day in Lincoln Park:

Lincoln Park Zoo: equipped with a vintage carousel and children’s train ride, this state of the art zoo is a neighborhood landmark.

Swirlz Cupcakes: The cupcake craze sweeping the nation also graces Chicago in this fancy, mouth-watering cupcake exclusive patisserie. This boutique shop offers 30 made-from-scratch flavors of cupcakes, including enticing key lime, coconut caramel, and orange dreamsicle. Flavors change periodically but the sumptuous Italian buttercream frosting and creamy French butter make every cupcake delightfully moist and spongy.

Goose Island Brew Pub: Enjoy famous hand-crafted brews and lagers at Chicago’s most beloved brewery. There is something for everyone here from delicious burgers to pool tables.

Second City: Get nightly laughs at the comedy club that launched the career of famous comics and Saturday Night Live actors, such as Mike Meyers, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray and more. Offering off-the-wall comedy since 1959, Second City has become a national treasure.

B.L.U.E.S.:The intimate setting, full bar, and consistently excellent performers seven days a week make this music venue a favorite among Blues aficionados.

Planning a trip to Chicago? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Chicago Card.

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Chicago Events for the Week of 11/1

November 1st, 2007 by jamie a

Friday, November 2 - Sunday, November 4
Get inspired at the 14th annual International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art. There’s glass, fiber art, ceramics, and metal art from over 100 galleries in 18 countries.

Friday, November 2 - Sunday, November 4
For a sampling of all kinds of creative dance, check out opening weekend of Dance Chicago 2007! Styles include everything from Irish and hip hop to jazz and ballet.

Saturday, November 3 (8-11 pm)
Lend a hand to the Greater Chicago Food Depository by attending the 4th Annual Drink for Hunger! There’s music, dancing, drinks (of course), raffles, and giveaways all to support a great cause.

Saturday, November 3 (9 am)
The Field Museum is hosting a symposium on Darwin and his Theory of Evolution. From the history of biology to to the evolution of the HIV virus, this is a wonderful way to learn about Darwin and all that surrounds his studies.

Planning a trip to Chicago? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Chicago Card.

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