Chicago is the 3rd most populous city in the US, famous for its towering architecture, turquoise lakes, palm-width pizza slices and home to House music. Here are some recommendations for a long weekend.
- Millennium Park: The iconic silver ‘Bean’ of Chicago (sculptor Anish Kapoor’s 110-tonne Cloud Gate). Catch a concert at The Pavilion or picnic in 25 acres of greenery and sunshine. After the 19th century fire that destroyed most of the city, the streets were rebuilt from the original townsite plat in a grid formation, making it hard for even the most directionally-challenged to get lost.
- The Field Museum: Chicago’s answer to London’s Natural History Museum. I caught the seasonal Tattoo exhibition and felt inspired by some Tibetan designs, watched a 4D feature on China’s Terracotta army and learned a lesson in cannibalism from the ‘Pacific Spirits’ gallery. Admission was about 30-40 dollars for an all-access pass.
- The Second City: The launch pad for stars of improvised comedy such as Bill Murray and Tina Fey.
- Museum Of Contemporary Art: One of the largest collections in the nation, as well as a host of regular film screenings and performances.
- Lincoln Park Zoo: Now featuring The Regenstein Macaque Forest where you can catch snow monkeys enjoying a relaxing hot tub.
- Adler Planetarium: A virtual reality trip through space and time.
- Navy Pier: Akin to London’s South Bank: ferris wheels, IMAX, mini golf, plenty of family activities and stunning sandy sunsets.
- SoFarSounds : Support promising local talent – discover new sounds and enjoy beer on tap or BYOB.
- Architecture Tour: See the skylines via river boat tour complete with Bloody Mary’s, spiked Bailey’s cocoa and commentary from witty volunteers. Grab your camera, wrap up warm and soak up the history and character of this gorgeous city.
Refuelling Stations
- Roisters: The brainchild of culinary mad scientist, Grant Achatz and part of the Alinea Group. A leader of molecular gastronomy who temporarily lost his sense of taste, yet still managed to become one of the most recognised chefs in the world. Chocolate marshmallow foie gras is highly recommended.
- Lou’s Pizza: Only found in Chicago. Taste the classic Deep Dish which is more like cake than a pizza, but in a good way.
- The Tavern: Best for brunch time Bloody Marys (yes this was a recurrent theme during my time here).
- FarmHouse Chicago: All-American comfort foods.
- Mindy’s Hot Chocolate: Rich desserts and winter warmers.
- Gene & Georgetti: Old school steak house serving meat, seafood and carby specialties.
- Chicago’s Home of Chicken and Waffles: Exactly what it says on the tin, as well as all the other weird things Americans like to eat including biscuits in gravy (a scone in bread sauce).
Watering Holes
- London House: Enjoy custom cocktails while bathing in the glow of the buildings at dusk.
- The Winery: Take a water taxi along the scenic River Walk and enjoy some science beaker wine.
- The Terrace at Trump: Skyline views and rooftop cocktails – why not.
- Green Mill Cocktail Lounge: Home to Al Capone and other gangsters in the 1920s, pop by on a Saturday afternoon for a taste of some of the city’s best jazz music.
