The Chicago Tribune Guide to Chicago: Your Essential Guide to the Windy City

The Chicago Tribune Guide to Chicago: Restaurants, Bars, Theaters, Museums, Festivals, Sports, and More

by David Aston

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1435 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	190 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Welcome to the Chicago Tribune Guide to Chicago, your essential guide to the Windy City. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Chicago, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, this guide has something for everyone.

Getting to Chicago

Chicago is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is the city's main airport, and it is served by all major airlines. Midway International Airport (MDW) is a smaller airport that is located closer to downtown. Amtrak trains serve Chicago from all over the country, and the city is also a major hub for Greyhound buses.

If you're driving to Chicago, the city is located at the intersection of Interstates 90 and 94. There are several toll roads in the Chicago area, so be sure to have change on hand if you're taking one of these roads.

Getting around Chicago

Chicago has a comprehensive public transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) operates buses, trains, and elevated trains (the "L"). You can purchase a Ventra card to use on all CTA services. The Ventra card can also be used to pay for parking at CTA garages and lots.

If you're not comfortable using public transportation, there are several taxi and ride-sharing services that operate in Chicago. You can also rent a car, but be aware that parking can be expensive in the city.

Where to stay in Chicago

Chicago has a wide range of hotels to choose from, from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations. If you're looking for a hotel in the heart of the city, consider staying in the Loop, River North, or Gold Coast neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are home to many of Chicago's most popular attractions, restaurants, and shops.

If you're on a budget, there are several affordable hotels located in the Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Wicker Park neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are still close to the city center, but they offer more affordable hotel rates.

What to do in Chicago

Chicago is a city with something to offer everyone. Whether you're interested in history, culture, art, or sports, you'll find plenty to keep you busy in the Windy City.

Here are just a few of the many things you can do in Chicago:

• Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the world's leading art museums.
• Take a walk or bike ride along the Magnificent Mile, Chicago's famous shopping and entertainment district.
• Visit Millennium Park, home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as "The Bean").
• See a show at one of Chicago's many theaters, including the Goodman Theatre, the Steppenwolf Theatre, and the Chicago Theatre.
• Attend a Chicago Cubs or White Sox baseball game.
• Visit the Field Museum of Natural History, one of the world's largest natural history museums.
• Take a boat tour of the Chicago River.
• Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest and largest zoos in the country.
• Explore the Wrigleyville neighborhood, home to Wrigley Field, the iconic home of the Chicago Cubs.

Where to eat in Chicago

Chicago is a foodie's paradise, with a wide range of restaurants to choose from. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you'll find something to your taste in the Windy City.

Here are just a few of the many great restaurants in Chicago:

• The Alinea, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience.
• The Girl and the Goat, a popular restaurant that serves up modern American cuisine with a Mediterranean twist.
• Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, a Chicago institution that is known for its deep-dish pizza.
• Portillo's Hot Dogs, a Chicago favorite that is known for its hot dogs, Italian beef, and chocolate cake.
• The Publican, a gastropub that serves up a variety of American dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Where to shop in Chicago

Chicago is a shopper's paradise, with a wide range of stores to choose from. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, affordable finds, or unique souvenirs, you'll find it all in the Windy City.

Here are just a few of the many great places to shop in Chicago:

• The Magnificent Mile, Chicago's famous shopping and entertainment district, is home to a wide range of stores, from luxury boutiques to department stores.
• The River North neighborhood is home to a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and home decor stores.
• The Wicker Park neighborhood is a trendy shopping destination that is known for its independent boutiques and vintage shops.
• The Lincoln Park neighborhood is home to a variety of shops, from bookstores to clothing stores to home goods stores.
• The Old Town neighborhood is a charming shopping destination that is known for its antique shops and art galleries.

Where to go for nightlife in Chicago

Chicago has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a wild night on the town, you'll find something to your liking in the Windy City.

Here are just a few of the many great places to go for nightlife in Chicago:

• The River North neighborhood is home to a variety of bars and clubs, including many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city.
• The Wicker Park neighborhood is a trendy nightlife destination that is known for its live music venues and craft beer bars.
• The Lincoln Park neighborhood is home to a variety of bars and restaurants, including many that offer live music.
• The Old Town neighborhood is a charming nightlife destination that is known for its jazz clubs and wine bars.
• The Hyde Park neighborhood is home to the University of Chicago, and it is a popular nightlife destination for college students and young professionals.

Planning your trip to Chicago

Now that you know a little bit more about Chicago, it's time to start planning your trip. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your time in the Windy City:

• Decide what you want to see and do. Chicago has a lot to offer, so it's important to prioritize what you want to see and do. Make a list of your must-see attractions and activities, and then plan your itinerary around those.
• Book your accommodations in advance. Chicago is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season.
• Purchase a Ventra card. A Ventra card will allow you to use all of CTA's public transportation services. You can purchase a Ventra card at any CTA station or online.
• Be prepared for all types of weather. Chicago weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all types of weather, including rain, snow, and heat.
• Have fun! Chicago is a great city to visit, so make sure to relax and enjoy your time there.

Additional resources

• Choose Chicago

The Chicago Tribune Guide to Chicago: Restaurants, Bars, Theaters, Museums, Festivals, Sports, and More

by David Aston

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1435 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	190 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE