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Chicago Travel: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Taste of Chicago 2008
Taste of Chicago 2008 dates: June 27 through July 6, 2008. Getting its start as a modest food festival on the Fourth of July in 1980, the Taste of Chicago has grown to be the world's largest outdoor food fest -- a gastronomical extravaganza attracting upwards of 3 million people each year.
Taste of Chicago Schedule
Taste of Chicago has a wide array of entertainment stages featuring live music, children's acts, dancing, cooking demonstrations and more on top of the tons of great food -- here's the entertainment schedule for day 1.
Taste of Chicago Food
The Taste of Chicago food vendors offer a diverse selection of food items from plain corn on the cob to exotic alligator sandwiches. Here's a list of this year's Taste of Chicago food vendors.
Navy Pier Fireworks Schedule
Navy Pier, one of the top tourist attractions in Chicago, doesn't just reserve its fireworks for the 4th of July -- they have regular fireworks shows throughout the summer, accompanied by great music. Here's the upcoming Navy Pier fireworks schedule for 2008.
Taste of Chicago Photos
Taste of Chicago is the most attended event in Chicago, drawing millions of people, including me -- here are some of my Taste of Chicago photos.
Best Chicago Beaches
Those not familiar with the vastness of Lake Michigan will be very surprised by the fact that Chicago beaches are miles long and just might make you wonder if you've somehow been transported to the west coast.
Taste of Chicago FAQ
Answers to Taste of Chicago questions that most frequently make their way into my inbox.
July in Chicago
July is a very popular travel month in Chicago -- Taste of Chicago is in full swing, Lake Michigan is bright blue and the water is warm, and there is plenty to do. Here are some important things to know when traveling to Chicago in July.
Chicago Air & Water Show 2008
The Chicago Air & Water Show happens each summer for one weekend in August, and over 2 million people flock to the shores of Lake Michigan for the event. It is the oldest and largest free show of its kind in the United States.
Chicago Trains and Buses
Most of the time traffic in Chicago and trying to find parking can be maddening, especially for the uninitiated visitor. But there is a solution, the Chicago trains and the rest of its extensive public transportation system.
Chicago Summer
Chicago in summer is a sight to behold -- the parks are lush, Lake Michigan glimmers in the hot sun, and the streets bustle with tourists and locals who managed to have the fortitude to survive a Chicago winter. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Chicago in the summer.
Navy Pier
Located just east of downtown on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers scores of entertainment and dining options, making it one of Chicago's top tourist attractions.
Best Chicago Restaurants
The best Chicago restaurants also usually come with a high price tag. So if you've got money to burn, an unlimited expense account with a client to impress, or want a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, then you will want to make sure to hit some of these spots, which I consider some of the best Chicago restaurants.
O'Hare Airport
O'Hare International Airport provides connections to more cities, more often than any other airport in the world. On the outskirts of the city, and connected to Chicago city limits by a thin strip of land along Foster Avenue near the Kennedy Expressway, over 190,000 people travel through O'Hare every day, and the airport was voted "Best Airport in North America" by Business Traveler International for seven years in a row.
Oprah Tickets
Oprah ticket demand far exceeds supply, and there's a very narrow window of opportunity to get them. Here are the details on how to get your Oprah tickets.
Venetian Night 2008
51st Annual Venetian Night Date: July 26, 2008. Venetian Night is the oldest city sponsored event and is very popular -- hundreds of thousands of people attend the lighted boat parade and impressive fireworks display.
Chicago Tourist Attractions
Chicago has a large number of tourist attractions, but there are undoubtedly a select handful that are by far the most popular with visitors. Here are some of the most popular tourist destinations in the Windy City.
Chicago Romantic Restaurants
Whether it's for Valentine's Day, an anniversary, first date or just a special night out, Chicago has a variety of spots for an intimate dinner. Here are some of my favorite romantic restaurants in Chicago.
Free Chicago Attractions
While many of Chicago's museums and attractions every so often have "free days", there are a number of Chicago tourist attractions that offer free admission year round. Here are some of my favorite free Chicago attractions.
Guide to Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest wildlife habitats in the United States. Boasting magnificent grounds and a new children's zoo, Lincoln Park should definitely be on your list for required stops on your visit to Chicago.
Buckingham Fountain
Opened May 26, 1927, the Buckingham Fountain has become one of the Windy City's top attractions, and arguably competes with the Sears Tower as Chicago's most famous landmark.
Admiral Theatre
The Admiral Theatre is an all-nude strip club on Chicago's Northwest Side.
Shedd Aquarium
Built in 1930, the Shedd Aquarium is one of the premier aquariums in the country and home to an impressive collection of underwater life.
Wrigley Field
The first major league pitch was thrown at Wrigley Field in 1914, making the home of the Chicago Cubs the second oldest major league ballpark in the United States, just a couple of years behind Boston's Fenway Park. Despite the Cubs being dubbed the "lovable losers", games at Wrigley Field continuously sell out year after year. Why? The ambiance and history of the ballpark -- it's something that really must be experienced.
Sears Tower
Soaring at 110 stories tall, the Sears Tower is the tallest building in North America and remains a huge tourist attraction, namely due to its Skydeck observatory offering a view of Chicago at 1,353 feet (412 meters).
Discount Theater Tickets
The League of Chicago Theatres has put together Hot Tix, a not-for-profit service that offers a half-price discount on Chicago theater tickets to shows at participating theaters and venues.
W Hotel Chicago City Center
Situated in the center of Chicago's financial district, the W Chicago City Center hotel is where the young and beautiful people go to be seen.
Go Chicago Card
The GoChicago Card is a great way to save some money if you plan on doing a whirlwind tour of Chicago attractions. At most of them, the Go Chicago Card also allows you to skip long lines.
Midway Airport (MDW)
Midway Airport, located on Chicago's southwest side, is smaller and some may say easier to deal with than O'Hare International Airport. It's anchor airline is the budget conscious Southwest Airlines.
Millennium Park
Despite numerous delays and huge cost overruns, Chicago's Millennium Park has been embraced by most of the residents of Chicago, and is incredibly popular with both tourists and locals -- a definite rarity.
VIP's Gentlemen's Club
VIP's Gentlemen's Club is an upscale adult cabaret (a nice way of saying "topless bar"), and the only one within city limits with a full liquor bar.
August in Chicago
August is usually hot and humid in Chicago, but it's still bustling with visitors as folks try to squeeze in a vacation before school starts again. The upside is that the Lake Michigan water temperature is usually the warmest it will be all year, making for a nice swim. Here are some important things to know when traveling to Chicago in August.
Sheraton Hotel Chicago
The Sheraton Hotel Chicago caters to conventioneers, and offers all the amenities in one place including a health club, several dining options, a coffee bar, and a hip lounge.
Jerry Springer Tickets
This venerable talk-show trashfest has been taping since its inception in Chicago, and is loads of fun.
Top 5 Chicago Luxury Hotels
If you are on someone else's dime and not on a budget, these Chicago luxury hotels are the creme de la creme. Boasting incredible service, extravagant amenities, and breathtaking views, here are the top luxury hotels in Chicago.
Museum of Science and Industry
Opened in 1933, the Museum of Science and Industry -- touted as the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere -- is not only an excellent educational experience, but a lot of fun for both kids and adults.
Chicago Hot Dogs
The Chicago-style hot dog is probably the Windy City's most famous signature food, so of course they are ubiquitous all throughout the city. But as locals will tell you, there are places that do it right, and others that, well, do it very, very wrong. Here are my personal favorites for the best places to sample a Chicago hot dog.
Chicago Seafood Restaurants
Chicago may not be next to any ocean, but today's modern shipping techniques ensure an abundance of fresh fish from all over the world. Here are some of my favorite Chicago seafood restaurants.
Chicago's Jewelers Row
The concept of a jewelry "mall" began in 1912 in one building on Wabash Street in Chicago's downtown Loop location. Today, Chicago's Jewelers Row spans 2 blocks with jewelers from all over the world and has become an official landmark area.
Lincoln Park Day Trip
Lincoln Park is not just grass and trees, you can spend a whole day here and visit the zoo, beach, conservatory, and nature museum.
Field Museum
The Field Museum is filled with fascinating exhibits including "Sue", the world's largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex.
Chicago Marathon 2008
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is a world class long distance running event, drawing international attention, participants, and spectators.
Palmer House Hilton Review
The largest free standing hotel in Chicago, the Palmer House Hilton is a French inspired class act with a convenient downtown Loop location.
Museum Campus
Chicago's Museum Campus is the official name for an area of land along south Lake Shore Drive that is home to the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium and Soldier Field
Old St. Pat's Block Party
The Old St. Pat's World's Largest Block Party is attended by over 25,000 people and features great music and food. It's also known as a huge singles party, and Old St. Pat's claims that over 70 couples have met at the block party and later married. That's one reason why Oprah Winfrey has dubbed it "the place to meet your match".
Price and Ratings Key
Read this handy key to find out specifics about my restaurant ratings and price guide.
Chicago Parking Meter Holidays
There are a handful of days that the City of Chicago Department of Revenue "graciously" has put in place called "Chicago Parking Meter Holidays" -- on these days motorists do not have to pay the parking meters throughout the Windy City.
Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world's premier art museums, housing a collection that spans 5,000 years.
Drake Hotel Chicago
A favorite among foreign dignitaries, royalty and celebrities alike, this old-world, Italian inspired hotel is bordered by Oak Street Beach, some of the most desirable shopping on the magnificent mile and boasts panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Award winning culinary dining and new renovations make this hotel a top pick.
Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium is part of the lake front's "Museum Campus", and is well known for its world class sky theater and collection of astronomy artifacts.
Odyssey Cruise
An Odyssey Cruise offers a great night of dinner and dancing while cruising along Lake Michigan enjoying the spectacular skyline views.
Chicago Theaters
In the late 1990s the Windy City started revitalizing its downtown Chicago theater scene, which is now thriving and in full force. Here's a list of the best Chicago theaters to catch a Broadway-style show, musical, or touring production.
The United Center
"The house that Michael Jordan built" is the home of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, as well as host to over 200 events a year.
Chicago Calendar
This Chicago calendar describes month-by-month the highlights of things to do, important holidays, and what weather to expect.
September in Chicago
September is a wonderful time of year in Chicago -- the mild temps and the diminished crowds is ideal for sightseeing. But bring a sweater of light jacket, as the temps at night can get on the chilly side. Here are some important things to know when traveling to Chicago in September.
Hancock Observatory
The Hancock Observatory may not be the highest in Chicago, but soaring at 1,000 feet above the Windy City it still offers breathtaking views of the city and lake.
Hotel Sofitel Chicago
The Hotel Sofitel features striking architecture in a great location near Michigan Avenue shopping.
Brookfield Zoo
The Brookfield Zoo is a short drive from downtown and is one of the best zoos in the country.
River Architecture Tour
The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise offers a unique perspective of some of Chicago's architecturally significant sites.
Horseshoe Casino Hammond
Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana, is surprisingly close despite being in a different state -- the casino is just 40 minutes from downtown Chicago. The Horseshoe Casino has a nice variety of gambling options, as well as a number of restaurants.
W Chicago Lakeshore Hotel
The only hotel that directly overlooks Lake Michigan, the W Chicago Lakeshore Hotel is one of the coolest places to stay in Chicago.
Mag Mile Lights Festival
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival officially kicks off the Christmas season in Chicago, with numerous fun family activities and the highlight, the Mickey Mouse parade illuminating over one million lights along Michigan Avenue.
Blue Man Group Chicago
Blue Man Group is a long-time fixture of the Chicago theater scene, and the wild, alien antics of the three silent blue performers makes Blue Man Group an exciting theater experience that's fun and appropriate for young and old alike.
Metro Chicago
Metro is one of the premier live music venues in Chicago, playing host to some of the best rising local and national acts since 1982.
Chicago Beach Pollution Info
Occasionally, the water along Chicago beaches can reach a bateria level that may be unsafe for swimming. The park district has instituted a flag system to advise swimmers as to water conditions -- here's a quick guide to help you stay safe.
Noble Horse Carriage Rides
The Noble Horse Carriage Rides are a fun way to tour the North Michigan Avenue shopping district.
Charlie Trotter's
Many will argue that Charlie Trotter's is the best restaurant in America -- while that may be debatable, Chef Trotter certainly put Chicago on the fine dining map with his painstakingly complex food creations that often use dozens of ingredients.
Custom House
James Beard award winning chef Shawn McClain does a complete 180 from his vegetarian venture, Green Zebra, and fills the Custom House menu with meat, meat, and oh yeah, meat.
October in Chicago
It may be well into fall, but there are still lots of great things going on during October in Chicago. Despite what the averages say, weather during this month can vary widely -- sometimes it's unseasonably warm, and others can get downright cold (let's just say I went on many a trick-or-treating session as a kid with a winter coat on over my costume). Packing layers of clothing is definitely in order. Here are some other important things to know when traveling to Chicago in October.
Historic Water Tower
The historic Water Tower is one of the few structures to withstand the great Chicago fire, due to its construction out of Joliet limestone. It's now home to a visitor's information center, photo gallery, and theater.
June in Chicago
June in Chicago is a great month, the sun is shining bright, it's generally not too warm, and the festival season gets into full swing. Here are some important things to know when traveling to Chicago in June.
Alinea
Alinea chef/owner Grant Achatz is a culinary wunderkind and is pushing the envelope with food ingredients and presentation -- think truffle-juice ravioli with melted leek and bison with multiple preparations of Iranian pistachios. Chef Achatz's 24-course tasting menu (which takes 5 hours to complete) has quickly become legendary.
Murphy's Red Hots Review
Picking the best Chicago hot dog is akin to choosing your favorite child, but in my opinion, Murphy's Red Hots serves the quintessential Chicago-style dog.
The Peninsula Hotel Chicago
The Peninsula Hotel Chicago is an award-winning, luxurious hotel with modern facilities and excellent service.
Chicago Photo Ops
Chicago is rich with various photo ops, with its wide variety of public sculpture and architecture as well as people on the street. Here, in my opinion, are the most popular spots you're likely to find shutterbugs snapping pictures in Chicago.
Soldier Field
Soldier Field (not Soldier's Field, a mistake a lot of natives even make) officially opened October 9, 1924, and is currently home to the Chicago Bears football team. Soldier Field underwent a major renovation completed in 2003 -- a controversial move that caused the National Register of Historic Places to strip the stadium of its landmark designation in 2006.
Ed Debevic's
While it may be a gimmicky tourist trap, Ed Debevic's fake 50s diner decor and insulting waitstaff is admittedly a lot of fun.
James Hotel Chicago
Sleek and ultra-contemporary, the James Hotel Chicago offers high-tech amenities and fabulous art.
Hollywood Casino Aurora
The Hollywood Casino is located in Aurora, Illinois, about 1 hour from downtown Chicago, and offers a wide variety of gambling and entertainment options, and is one of the only casinos in the area to offer live Texas Hold 'Em poker.
Harrah's Casino Joliet
Harrah's Casino is located in Joliet, Illinois, about 1 hour from downtown Chicago, and offers a wide variety of gambling and entertainment options as well as a 200 room hotel.
Empress Casino Joliet
The Empress Casino is located in Joliet, Illinois, about 1 hour from downtown Chicago, and offers a wide variety of gambling and entertainment options as well as a hotel and RV park.
Intercontinental Chicago
Serving as a gateway to the Mag Mile from the south, the Intercontinental Hotel is a sophisticated luxury hotel in a historic building.
Grand Victoria Casino
The Grand Victoria Casino is located in Elgin, Illinois, just 45 minutes from downtown Chicago, and offers a wide variety of gambling and entertainment options.
Carson's Ribs
Carson's is the big place for tourists to tuck into a big slab of Chicago BBQ ribs.
Chi Bar
Located within the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers, Chi Bar is the Sheraton's entry into the high end lounge scene, in a gorgeous space rumored to have cost seven figures.
Fogo de Chao
Fogo de Chao is another entry in the hot Chicago trend of restaurants featuring Brazilian churrasco -- delicious meat roasted over an open fire.
Four Seasons Chicago
The Four Seasons Chicago hotel offers luxury and elegance in a prime Chicago location.
Moto
When you realize that the waiters are chefs, and the phrase "molecular gastronomy" is being bantered about, you know you're in for an intense culinary experience.
Everest
Chef Jean Joho personalized French cuisine even outshines the tremendous view at this restaurant located on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange.
Hostelling International
Housed in a historic building, this popular hostel is all about location. Right downtown and walking distance to all the major attractions, this no curfew, dorm style hostel attracts young people world wide.
Raffaello Hotel Chicago
The Raffaello Hotel (formerly The Raphael) underwent a $20 million renovation in 2006, and boasts that they are "a comfortable combination of being high luxury and environmentally friendly."
December in Chicago
Chicago weather in December can vary wildly from mildly cold to downright freezing. Layers are key, and a warm jacket is a must. Here are some other important things to know when traveling to Chicago in December.
Chicago History Museum
Established in 1856 as the Chicago Historical Society, the Chicago History Museum moved into its current building in 1932, underwent a major renovation in 2006, and is the preeminent source to discover the history of Chicago and its people.
Buckingham Fountain Trivia
How much do you know about Chicago's famous landmark, the Buckingham Fountain? Probably not as much as you think. Here's a collection of facts about the fountain to help you gear up for the next game of Trivial Pursuit, Chicago Edition.
Christkindlmarket
Christkindlmarket Chicago is a German tradition that has made its way to Chicago. This Christmas holiday market takes place in Daley Plaza from Thanksgiving to Christmas, and offers unique crafts and gifts for sale, a variety of entertainment, as well as German food and drinks.
May in Chicago
May in Chicago is a great month, as the warmer weather finally starts to hold, the Chicago beaches open, and summer is right around the corner. Here are some important things to know when traveling to Chicago in May.
November in Chicago
A chill is in the air, the leaves are off the trees, and Chicago gears up for the upcoming holiday season. Here are some other important things to know when traveling to Chicago in November.
The Ritz-Carlton Chicago
Soaring above Michigan Avenue atop Water Tower Place, the Ritz-Carlton is quintessential luxury and service.
St. Patrick's Day Parade
St. Patrick's Day is a huge holiday in Chicago, and the parade is the largest in the city (you may have seen Harrison Ford utilize the large crowds to escape in "The Fugitive"). Led by our Irish king, "Hizzoner" Mayor Richard M. Daley, thousands line up along Columbus Drive the Saturday before St. Patrick's Day. No matter your heritage, everyone at the parade is full of Irish blood, blarney, and green beer.
March in Chicago
Before you start planning your trip to Chicago, it's obviously important to pack accordingly for the weather and to be aware of what's going on with events and holidays. Here are some important things to know when traveling to Chicago in March including recommendations for St. Patrick's Day.
Children In Paradise Bookstore
Your kids will love having their own bookstore instead of being relegated to a small corner of Barnes and Noble. A visit to the Children In Paradise Bookstore is a must when traveling to Chicago with kids.
Winter Wonderfest
Navy Pier turns itself into a "Winter Wonderfest" each Christmas season, featuring a number of different attractions, rides, and ice skating.
Bob Chinn's Crab House
Bob Chinn's Crab House offers super fresh king crab legs and seafood, and people must like it -- the restaurant serves up to 3,000 diners a day.
Hotel Monaco Chicago
The Hotel Monaco Chicago is a boutique hotel with unique French-inspired whimsical decor, steps from the Loop business and theater district.
Park Hyatt Chicago
The Park Hyatt Chicago is a premium luxury hotel, in the middle of the Michigan Avenue shopping district and a short distance from downtown.
Capital Grille Chicago
The boisterous Chicago location of this national chain of steakhouses serves up tons of aged steaks, lobster, calamari, and more.
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo gets into the holiday season with "ZooLights", when it decks itself with lights, Santa's Safari, ice carving demonstrations, and more.
April in Chicago
Before you start planning your trip to Chicago, it's obviously important to pack accordingly for the weather and to be aware of what's going on with events and holidays. Here are some important things to know when traveling to Chicago in April.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum opened in 1999 with a clear mission – to educate the public, especially urban dwellers, on the importance of maintaining the quality of nature that surrounds us steps to take that can help the environment.
Chicago Christmas Tree
The Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Daley Plaza is now in its 94th year, and features the Chicago Children's Choir, cast members from The Goodman Theatre's A Christmas Carol, Santa Claus, and of course the star of the show, a 90 foot tall Christmas tree.
McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade
Chicago's Thanksgiving Parade 2007 kicks off at 8:30 a.m. on November 22, 2007 and features giant inflatables, marching bands, dancers and more.
Gibsons Steakhouse
Gibsons Steakhouse is the see and be seen place on the Chicago restaurant scene, popular with visiting celebrities, swinging singles, and powerful local politicians. As the owner states, Gibsons is known for "big martinis, big steaks, and big desserts", a winning combination.
Wicker Park Tavern
This late-night yuppy watering hole is at Wicker Park's ground zero people watching intersection of North, Milwaukee and Damen Avenues.
Tru
The brainchild of the formerly married team of Chef Rick Tramonto and Pastry Chef Gale Gand, Tru was planned and designed from the ground up to be the ultimate sacred ground of fine dining. The "collections" (tasting menus), whose composition is decided on by the kitchen when you order, are a gastronomical delight.
Japonais
Japonais is an ultra-hip restaurant crammed with beautiful decor and beautiful people, but the real star is the sushi and maki created by master Japanese chefs.
Gioco
Gioco's rustic Italian food and hip decor is a terrific place in the revitalized South Loop neighborhood.
The Gage
The Gage sits conveniently across from tourist attraction Millennium Park, in a lovingly restored historic building. And despite the pub-like noise level, Chef Dirk Flanigan is cranking out some serious cuisine.
Christmas in Chicago
Christmas in Chicago is one of my favorite times of year. There's plenty of things to do to get you in the Christmas spirit, here are some of my favorites.
Chicago Children's Museum
The Chicago Children's Museum, located on Navy Pier, offers tons of hands on learning exhibits for kids, but adults might find it a bit dull.
Chicago Bears Schedule 2008
Fans of "Da Bears" are some of the most loyal in the country -- and they need to be, after the Chicago Bears have gone this long without a Super Bowl win. Here's the Chicago Bears Schedule for the 2008 NFL season, along with start times (CST) and local broadcast station.
January in Chicago
Chicago weather in January is definitely on the frigid side, with the daily temps rarely go above the freezing mark. Here are some other important things to know when traveling to Chicago in January.
Cheesecake Factory
People line up for long waits and huge portions at this restaurant in the base of the John Hancock Building.
Green Zebra
James Beard award winning chef Shawn McClain does a complete 180 from his sister restaurant and carnivore's dream, Custom House, with this vegetarian haven in West Town.
Green Dolphin Street
A combination jazz club and fine-dining restaurant, Gree Dolphin Street is a one-stop destination for a great evening out.
Chicago Auto Show
The Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in the United States, and is celebrating its 100th year. This year the show runs from February 8 - 17, 2007.
Butter: Restaurant Review
CLOSED. With well thought out decor and excellent American contemporary cuisine, Butter Restaurant is a great choice for a romantic dinner.
Avec
Communal dining at its finest, Chef Koren Grieveson prepares Mediterranean cuisine at a level that rivals Blackbird, Avec's wildly popular sibling next door.
Chicago Chop House
Chicago Chop House is located in a restored Victorian brownstone, a perfect historic setting to enjoy some of Chicago's finest steak.
Ferris Wheel
Chicago's Navy Pier turns itself into a "Winter Wonderfest" each Christmas season, featuring a number of different attractions, rides, and ice skating. Here are some photos of the event.
Cape Cod Room
This old school seafood restaurant tucked inside the Drake Hotel is full of classic kitsch like a captain's table and lobsters printed on the napkins.
Chicago Travel - Profiles
An index of Profiles for the Chicago Travel guide site.
Brookfield Zoo Holiday Lights
Brookfield Zoo gets into the holiday season with "Holiday Magic", when the zoo decorates with almost a million lights, a laser light show, carolers, storytellers and more.
February in Chicago
Before you start planning your trip to Chicago, it's obviously important to pack accordingly for the weather and to be aware of what's going on with events and holidays. Here are some important things to know when traveling to Chicago in February including recommendations for Valentine's Day.
Chicago Travel - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Chicago Travel guide site.
Boka
Chef Giuseppe Scurato's menu is focused, accessible, and wildly ambitious about using only the freshest products.
Carousel
Chicago's Navy Pier turns itself into a "Winter Wonderfest" each Christmas season, featuring a number of different attractions, rides, and ice skating. Here are some photos of the event.
Emilio's Tapas Bar
Emilio's Tapas Bar expertly serves up incredible Spanish fare, and is easily one of my favorite tapas spots in Chicago.
Chicago Firehouse
Located in a converted 1905 firehouse, this restaurant serves up simple, well-prepared American dishes and is a favorite of Mayor Daley.
Ann Sather
Ann Sather's Swedish diner food is delish, but the big hit here are their decadent cinnamon rolls.
Avenues
Chef Graham Elliot Bowles world famous cuisine lives up to its posh surroundings inside The Peninsula Chicago Hotel.
Blackbird
Chef/owner Paul Kahan made Blackbird a Chicago culinary fixture with his ever-changing menu and austere, yet serene dining room.
Geja's Cafe
Geja's Cafe is a long running romantic fondue dining spot, with dark booths and flamenco guitarists.
Army and Lou's
This casual spot has been serving up some of Chicago's best soul food for over half a century.
Hugo's Frog Bar
Hugo's Frog Bar and Fish House is the seafood sibling of its next door neighbor Gibson's Steak House, and is just as fun.
Carlos
Carlos' is a fine dining institution, serving contemporary French cuisine in an elegant setting with impeccable service.
Amarind's Thai Restaurant
Chef-owner Rangsan Sutcharit puts his experience at the legendary fine dining thai restaurant Arun's into good practice at this much cheaper spot.
Cyrano's Bistrot & Wine Bar
This traditional French bistro feels like it was transported directly from Chef/owner Didier Durand's hometown of -- where else -- Bergerac, France.
Ice Skating
Chicago's Navy Pier turns itself into a "Winter Wonderfest" each Christmas season, featuring a number of different attractions, rides, and ice skating. Here are some photos of the event.
Live Entertainment
Chicago's Navy Pier turns itself into a "Winter Wonderfest" each Christmas season, featuring a number of different attractions, rides, and ice skating. Here are some photos of the event.

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