Loving the Windy City

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View from the Trump Tower
Few American cities have more to offer than Chicago, Illinois.  This windy cosmopolitan city offers a rich range of cultural activities, dining, theater and architecture.

It’s hard to decide what to do first upon arrival in the windy city.  I recommend taking an architectural river cruise at sunset.  Board an open air boat and listen as the knowledgeable tour guides highlight the city’s architecture and history.  The as it gets darker, the light begin to shine with different colors for spectacular views.

The front desk at the Mile North Hotel

We opted to stay in a boutique hotel instead of a larger hotel.  The Mile North Hotel is a half block from Michigan Avenue with Gino's famous pizza right next door.  The location couldn't be better with Nordstrom on the corner.  We found the rooftop bar on our first night with fantastic views of the city.  This place is popular with locals and a great spot to unwind after a long day with a cocktail.

Classic Chicago Dog from Portillo's
Dining is a big draw to Chicago.  No trip there is complete without trying a traditional Chicago hot dog with spicy sport pepper or deep dish pizza.  We started off with pizza from Gino's.  If I had to use one work to describe the pizza, it would be decadent.  Oozing with cheese and Italian sausage, each bite makes you feel more and more guilty. Most restaurants offer an antipasto tray on the appetizer menu.  The best one we found was at RPM, owned by Julianna and Bill Rancic..  Portillo's filled our hot dog craving.  A lively kitchen staff will keep you entertained as you bite into the traditional Chicago dog with the soft poppy seed bun.

The Terrace roof top lounge at the Trump Tower was a perfect end to our trip.  We stopped in for drinks after a visiting the Bean and the Museum of Art.  The restaurant is very busy but you can head out to the lounge at dusk and watch the buildings slowly light up.
Clever window display at a clothing store on Michigan Avenue
The Bean

If you're lucky enough to meet some locals, ask them for an Italian restaurant recommendation.  You’ll find some very authentic characters at these old fashioned eateries.

Whether you love art or not, a trip to the Chicago Metropolitan Museum of Art is must see.  Plan on spending a couple of hours strolling through the different areas of modern art, impressionists, and even historical armor.

When the sun goes down, the lights turn on at the theaters.  Ask your hotel concierge for help in getting the best seats at the shows.  

If shopping is your game, you’re in the right place!  Head down Michigan Avenue for all of your shopping needs.  You’ll find Nordstorm, Nieman Markus, Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, Pottery Barn and many more.  

Check out Mary deSilva's Amazon Kindle ebooks here.



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