Chicago Travel Guide

Take a walking tour to see some of the city's prized public art from modern masters: Marc Chagall created the rectangular mosaic in First National Plaza; a Pablo Picasso sculpture sits on Daley Plaza; and Alexander Calder's arcing red flamingo watches over an outdoor café on Dearborn Street.
Walk, bike, or jog on the 20-mile-long Lakefront Path connecting downtown to Navy Pier. It skirts the edge of Lake Michigan and is a favorite of city dwellers.
Try and get tickets to tapings of The Oprah Winfrey Show by calling 312-591-9222, but know that there's no set schedule for when the show tapes and that demand far exceeds supply.
Laugh out loud at The Second City on North Wells Street. It's the home of the famed comedy troupe that gave rise to SNL superstars from Dan Aykroyd to Tina Fey. (The Billy Goat Tavern on Michigan Avenue's lower level was the inspiration for John Belushi's famous "Cheezeborger!" skit, and still offers marginal food and rude employees.)
Stroll the tree-lined streets of Oak Park. It's the first suburb west of the city, the birthplace of Ernest Hemingway, and the one-time home of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Like any great city, Chicago's got something for everyone, whether your tastes run toward world-famous museums and blow-your-budget luxury hotels or family-friendly lodgings and low-key neighborhood restaurants. Narrowing down your choices may seem daunting, but never fear: Here's your cheat sheet to the very best of the city, the places to which I send out-of-town friends and relatives when they want to experience the "real" Chicago. Some are well-known tourist attractions, others are insider secrets, but all are places and experiences that truly sum up this town. Happy exploring! Read More

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I am planning a trip to Chicago for 4 days and 3 nights the first of December. I want to do some shopping and sightseeing, and advice?? I am staying near the loop!
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My husband and I will be vising Chicalgo in early Jan. It will be a short visit and the focus of the trip will be the museum campus. Any suggestions for a close place to stay? We're from MN and realize that it could be very cold at that time and we may want a taxi even if we are close, but if the weather cooperates we'd like to walk if possible. Thanks
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Taking daughter to Chicago for her 22nd birthday week after Christmas. Ideas? Shopping other than Miracle Mile? Jazz clubs easy to walk to? Any help!
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