Chicago Things to Do Tips by dzni

3rd tallest building in Chicago... It may not be as tall as the Sear's Tower, but I think aesthetically it's nicer looking. Oh, and the view from the top on a nice, sunny day! It's breathtaking... You can see the full 'blueness' of Lake Michigan and then look the other way and see the rest of the city (since Hancock is one of the last skyscrapers at the end of the skyline). Anyway, if you're looking for a view, I'd choose this over Sear's.

Leave a Comment

Address: North Michigan Ave.
Other Contact: I could sware I had more picture

HUGE interactive museum that has all sorts of science-related exhibits. Inside they have a 727 hanging from the ceiling, into which you walk and sit down. There's a model coal mine shaft in the center that you can take a ride on and then walk in the underground 'cave.' There's a U-505 submarine you can walk through, not to mention the Fairy Castle walkthrough, and a Human heart walkthrough. You can easily spend a day in this place because I haven't even mentioned half the exhibits here. And an OMNIMAX... they have that too. Phew... enjoy yourself! Ah, however, this museum is still best-suited to children. I've noticed that as I've gotten older it hasn't really captured my attention as much! :)

Leave a Comment

Directions: Near the University of Chicago, on the lakefront, south of the city.

I recently visited this place for a second time and it's still pretty incredible. Inside you can find tons and tons of sealife. But I'd also encourage you to visit the part with the bigger ocean life, such as dolphins and penguins and such. There's even a corny show where they do tricks. Anyway, this place is well-worth it.

Leave a Comment

Directions: On lakefront, next to Field Museum. You can get to it from South Michigan Ave. if you feel like walking a little.

Planetarium location offers nice views of city. Inside there are all sorts of exhibits on space and such.

Field Museum offers stuffed animals and the like. I'm greatly underplaying both of these locations, but my visits here were extremely brief, so I didn't get to see a whole lot.

Leave a Comment

Address: Lakefront

Take a boat tour onto Lake Michigan
We used Wendella Boat Tours... it first takes you on a tour of the Chicago River as you meander between the skyscrapers on both sides of you. Then you go through the locks and out onto the lake for some great opportunities of pictures of the city.

Leave a Comment

Marshall Field's Department Store
Huge department store on State St., much like that of Macy's-fame. But this is better than Macy's (I've been to Macy's). Ok, yeah, it's still just a department store inside, but outside it's all decorated at Christmas, and there's always the large clock on its corner. Get some Frango mints while you're here!

Leave a Comment

Address: On State St., near Daley Plaza

There's a lot of modern artwork that you'll find downtown just walking around. For example... the Picasso piece in Daley Plaza.. is it a monkey or a lady? Anyway, just look for these things.

Leave a Comment

I've only been to a couple art museums in my day, but this is definitely my favorite! In fact, I've been there three times now! Anyway, there are thousands of famous pieces of art, many that are recognizable at first glance. For exmample, 'Nighthawks,' by Hopper, is the one with the little night cafe on a deserted street. Or they have 'American Gothic,' the one with the stoic famer and wife, holding the pitchfork. There are a number of pieces by Picasso, more recognizable, as well as a number of impressionist paintings. My favorite painting here, by far, is 'Sunday Afternoon on the Island of Le Grande Jatte' by Seurat... I know I slaughtered the title and the French there. Anyway, great painting that I highly reccommend seeking out while you're there.

Leave a Comment

Directions: Right on Michigan Avenue... south of the river. I believe it's around where Adams and Michigan meet.
Other Contact: I'm in Chicago so often, that I

You know that classic opening to 'Married with Children' when the large fountain in Chicago turns off? Well, this is that fountain! Sadly, the only times I've seen it have been when it was turned off. Anywho, check it out, it's neat looking, and not a far walk from the Art Institute or the Shedd Aquarium.

Leave a Comment

Directions: Off Michigan Ave. (or maybe Columbus Dr.).... anyway, it's in Grant Park, as you walk toward the lake.