Five Things to do in Chicago from a Chicago Guy’s Point of View
By Edward M. Bury
Guidebooks and travel sites offer some great advice and insight on how to find and enjoy what Chicago has to offer. But, savvy travelers know long-time locals often can provide an unparalleled perspective on a great city like Chicago. Here are five “must-do” activities suggested by a life-long Chicagoan.
1. See Chicago from the Water. The Chicago skyline truly is one of the most dynamic and compelling urban vistas in the world. From the towering modern office buildings to the span of classic buildings along Michigan Avenue, the skyline is breathtaking and best appreciated from a distance. Outside of flying, the best way to view the skyline is by water. Many boat tour operators dock along the Chicago River near Michigan Avenue and offer hour-long or longer tours from May through October; the cost is around $25 for adults. Some feature commentary on the landmark buildings along the river, and some pass through the locks onto Lake Michigan. Or, visitors can take the Chicago Water Taxi from the foot of the Wrigley Building (400 N. Michigan Av.) to the dock at Madison Street. The 11-minute ride costs just $2 each way.
2. See Chicago from on High. The landscape surrounding Chicago is flat. Very flat. The only way to take in full depth and breadth of the area is from a very tall building. On a good, clear day, it’s possible to view as far north as Wisconsin and east into Indiana and Michigan. Some hotels offer dramatic views of the city, but the best perspective comes from an observation deck. The Sears Tower Skydeck in the building of the same name rises 103 stories or 1,353 feet in the air, offering 360-degree views. Another option is the John Hancock Observatory, which soars 94 floors along North Michigan Avenue. Both observatories charge admission fees, and crowds can be lengthy, especially on clear summer days. Another option: visit the Signature Room restaurant and lounge on the 96th floor of the Hancock building. There’s no admission fee, but you’ll get a tremendous view for the price of a cocktail.
3. Ride the El. Chicago’s “el” – the elevated rapid transit network operated by the Chicago Transit Authority — is how many get to and from work. But it’s also a great way to see neighborhoods from a unique viewpoint. The most interesting line is the Brown Line, which winds its way from downtown through hip and historic neighborhoods. Pick up the Brown Line el at the Clark and Lake station and head north. Your train will twist and turn its way through Lincoln Park, Lakeview and Ravenswood. Along the way, you’ll see historic homes and businesses, and even get peeks of the downtown skyline. Exit at Armitage Avenue for some high-end shopping, or continue up to Southport Avenue for dining and clubs. The cost is $2 per ride.
4. Eat an Italian Beef. Deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs originated here, of course, but these days, good examples of these culinary mainstays can be found outside the city. But another iconic comfort food item really can only be found here. It’s the Italian beef sandwich. Not a Philly or French Dip, the Italian beef is seasoned roast beef cooked in natural juices and served on Italian bread. Order one dry (no juice) or wet (dipped), and opt for hot peppers (called giardiniera) or sweet peppers. Every beef stand has its own carefully guarded recipes. In the downtown area, two stands stand out: Mr. Beef on Orleans Street or Al’s Beef on Ontario Street. Remember to take lots of napkins. Expect to pay around $5 to $6 per sandwich.
5. Visit Lincoln Park. Some clarification: There is both a 1,200-acre park and a cool adjacent neighborhood named after the 16th President. Both offer plenty of things to do without spending a lot of money. The park, located just north of downtown, stretches along Lake Michigan for around two miles and features the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, the Lincoln Park Conservatory, a couple of beaches, running paths, harbors, tennis courts, a golf course, a summer theater and a driving range. Stroll west to explore pocket neighborhoods like Old Town, DePaul and Sheffield where tree-lined streets are flanked by turn-of-the-century brownstones, greystones and row houses. Restaurants, bars and shopping abound, especially along North Clark Street. Getting to Lincoln Park is easy from downtown. Take the #151 Sheridan bus along North Michigan Avenue and exit when you reach the park.
Visit Chicago’s Online Resource Directory for Chicago Restaurants, Private Event Space, Chicago Charter Boats, Chicago Bus Companies, Chicago Team Building Companies, Attractions and Sightseeing Tours at Hereschicago.com.
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