As the third-largest city in America, Chicago provides a world array of opportunities for adventure from shopping, eating, museums, sports and the local neighborhoods that sometimes feel like you have stepped into another country. Sometimes windy from both the politicians and the weather ‘off the lake,’ the Fall is an ideal time to explore by air, foot, water, horse and car but always keep a coat handy as the locals say, “wait five minutes and the weather will change.” Game days in South Bend have been in the 70s to rain to hail to snow to sunshine, sometimes during the course of one game. Plan accordingly. Michigan Avenue provides the “Magnificent Mile,” capped by Oak Street to the north, that could leave your wallet empty. From the Art Institute’s famous lions on guard, work out the deep-dish pizza with a walk north to the newest jewel of the Chicago Park District, Millennium Park. Designed by USC Alumni Frank Gehry, there are many areas for discovery. To the south is Grant Park with Buckingham Fountain and the Museum Campus (Field, Shedd Aquarium and Observatory). Of course you cannot leave town without a sampling of some fine cuisine. Ask five people and you will get five different answers as to where the best pizza, steak or ethnic food is located. The same can be said for bars and clubs, most open until 4:00 or 5:00 a.m. for your bodies still on West Coast time. Feel free to ask a MAC member and we will point you in the right direction or towards our individual favorites. Here are a few websites to check out prior to your arrival to formulate a game plan for your time with us: The City City of Chicago City of Chicago Tourism CTA - Buses and the "El" Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau Dining and Entertainment Citysearch Metromix Museums / Attractions The Art Institute of Chicago Chicago Historical Society The Field Museum Museum of Contemporary Art Museum of Science and Industry Shedd Aquarium Millennium Park The City Dining and Entertainment Museums / Attractions |
