Archive for
2007
November 19th, 2007 by susan j
Planning a trip to a new destination can be exciting, but also overwhelming. Where will you eat? What will you do on Saturday night? Will you be able to find vegan pastries in an unfamiliar city?
That’s why we’re rolling out a new feature on this blog called “Ask a Travel Expert.” If you have a question about where to stay, what to do, or anything else travel-related, then leave a comment and our team of travel experts will be sure to address it in a future blog post. Happy Travels!
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
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November 16th, 2007 by amy c
Photo provided by Macy’s
The holiday season is fast approaching and there is no place like Chicago to take care of everyone on your gift list. Here are some world famous shopping hot-spots to help you get a jump on your holiday shopping.
Known as the “,” Michigan Avenue is a shopper’s paradise. The mile-long stretch offers four different malls and 500 shops. Browse the height of luxury at Tiffany’s or Chanel and enjoy big name brands from Addidas to to .
Like almost every girl, I love to shop–especially to the sounds of Christmas music. But, I am by no means a marathon shopper. Just the thought of mile long stretch of stores both excites me and has my feet aching and stomach growling. Fortunately, the area is speckled with fine dining where you can recharge after working up an appetite swiping that credit card. Try the for some Southern comfort food, such as jambalaya and gumbo.
To experience holiday spirit at its height and get some serious shopping done, head to the former Marshall Field’s Department store. now owns the store, and it retains the old-fashioned charm and holiday cheer of years past. Macy’s offers an unforgettable glimpse at the ghosts of shopping’s past. This season, the store celebrates the centennial of famed icons, including the picturesque Tiffany Ceiling and Walnut Room. Refuel your shopping energy with delicious food or tea in the Walnut Room.
Also on State Street, is Old Navy, Urban Outfitters, and Aldo–the perfect destinations for the kids or teens on your list. Affordable and trendy, these stores will make you a hit with all the fashionistas on your list. Urban Outfitters offers great stocking stuffers that definitely beat the toothpaste and floss that make their way into my stocking year after year. (more…)
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
November 15th, 2007 by jamie a
Saturday, November 17 (11 am -10 pm)
Sunday, November 18 (all day)
, a 40 year old Chicago tradition, will be illuminated this weekend to kick off the holiday season! There will be live music, an attempt to break the world’s record for largest holiday carol, mini cheesecake decorating, and a grand fireworks show emceed by Mickey Mouse at 6:55 pm. This event will also be broadcast live on ABC 7 Chicago.
Saturday, November 17 (10 am - 6 pm)
Show your support for independent crafters at the . Get your holiday shopping done by picking up unique gifts for all your friends and family with everything from jewelry to kitchen gadgets and zines.
Saturday, November 17 - Sunday, November 18 (10 am - 6 pm)
Bring out your inner child at the . Meet inventors, test out new and upcoming toys, and participate in game tournaments with some of the world’s best players!
Sunday, November 18 (11 am - 4 pm)
At the , you can enjoy some great shopping and delicious treats all while supporting the Red Door Animal Shelter. This no-kill facility provides cats, dogs, and rabbits a cage-less life, offering them the closest experience to living in a home as they can. With 10 artisans selling their creations, you’re sure to find something to take home and cherish.
Sunday, November 18 (3 pm)
Come and be amazed by , two of Chicago’s exceptionally talented young orchestras, at their Fall Showcase. Don’t miss this grand show of up-and-coming musical talent!
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
November 14th, 2007 by jamie a
Experience the amazing collision between rock and roll music and contemporary art as depicted in
The Museum of Contemporary Art examines the intersection of rock and roll and visual art through music videos, album art, and works of art themselves. See the impact of music on the fine arts, especially prevalent with Andy Warhol’s involvement in producing the album The Velvet Underground and Nico in 1967. Explore recent album covers by Slater Bradley, Raymond Pettibon, and Mike Kelley created for modern bands, and discuss how musicians like John Lennon, Peter Townsend, and Bryan Ferry came from art school backgrounds.
For special events related to this exhibit, join the museum for the last session of on November 14 and then the on December 8 where children can explore their own connections between art and music for free!
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
November 13th, 2007 by susan j
Mickey Mouse lights more than one million lights along North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to Wacker Drive, culminating in a magnificent fireworks show over the Chicago River for The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival presented by Harris. Photo by Stanley Wlodkowski.
This weekend marks the 16th annual . Extending from the Chicago River to Oak Street, the Magnificent Mile (aka North Michigan Avenue) is one of Chicago’s main thoroghfares between the Loop and the Gold Coast. In honor of the holiday season, the street will be illuminated with more than one million lights.
From the lighting procession led by Mickey Mouse to musical performances by KT Turnstall and Sister Hazel, this year’s festival promises plenty of family-friendly fun and entertainment. Here’s a glimpse at what to expect if you go (the lighting procession will also be broadcast nationally on ABC):
11 am - 7 pm Lights Festival Lane features booths including the Southwest Airlines Mitten Tree, “Christmas around the World” with The Museum of Science and Industry, and more.
5 pm Live holiday street entertainment along the Avenue
6 pm Lighting procession led by Mickey Mouse
6:55 pm Fireworks display over the Chicago River
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Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
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 “,” 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 , including the and . He also recommends the restaurants (for rice, beans, and tacos) and visiting , 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.
November 9th, 2007 by susan j
Photo uploaded by ()
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 . 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.
November 8th, 2007 by jamie a
Saturday, November 10
Join the Museum of Science for 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 hits the Windy City this weekend. Check out the which includes everything from animation to musicals.
November 8 - 18
The second oldest in the nation, the is also playing in Chicago. It’s full of , including the opening on Thursday, November 8th, along with spotlights and panel discussions.
Saturday, November 10
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.
November 7th, 2007 by jamie a
Superdawg at Night
photo uploaded by
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, 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 , 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 . 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 .
, 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.
November 6th, 2007 by jamie a
Photo uploaded by
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.
Chicago’s best-known comedy club, boasts alums like Bill Murray, Amy Sedaris, and Steve Carell. Check out the , as well as their smaller venue, the . While most shows are comprised of mature topics (like current events and politics), this venue is open to teens and adults.
At , anyone 21+ can enjoy the laughs and drinks with the regulars. Check out their to find your favorite stars from the Late Show, TBS’s My Boys, and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
For sports fans of all ages, , offers hilarious improv comedy shows. With two teams battling to win the laughs of the crowd, you’ll have a fabulous time.
Since 1981, 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 !
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
