I am planning a trip to Chicago in late October, need advice. I am from the USA but have never been in Chicago.
Restaurant recommendation:
Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
We have never been disappointed .
The one thing I see EVERYONE recommending is the architecture boat cruise on the Chicago River. We finally went last summer and I have to agree. It gives a great history of the city.
We were staying up in the touristy section, the top of the Magnificent Mile, and went Geno's East for their famous pizza. Not to sound like an east coast snob or anything but we were NOT happy that it took 2 hours to get our pizza. Don't get me wrong, it was great, but spending our only night in the city watching the White Sox game while waiting for dinner was not exactly how we planned to spend it.
Other recommendations include the Navy Pier (or whatever it's called). The one thing that struck me was how blue and clear Lake Michigan and the Chicago River is. Looked almost like the Virgin Islands!
It will be freezing. Definitely go to the Chicago Art Institute Museum and eat pizza at Giordano's, or the original Uno's is good but almost always has a line out the door. Take the elevated train (public transit) - it's convenient and cheap. You can even take it from the airport
I live in the Chicago suburbs. You can expect cool weather and I would bring a hat and especially gloves just in case. You may be outside more than you expect. Be prepare for wet and winyd weather too.
As for what to see, it depens what you like to do. If you like to shop, don't miss Michigan Avenue - The Miracle Mile. The waterfront is beautiful. Most people really enjoy the architecture tours on the river. The bar scene is great, there are ALL kinds. The Shedd aquarium is great as is the Field Museum. Lincoln Zoo is free .
You can't go wrong staying anywhere downtown, you'll be in the middle of everything. Depends on what amenities you expect. I would just look for best price on the web and try to be nearest to the river. If you have a car, make sure your hotel has free parking! Parking can blow your budget fast. The EL train is very easy and if you are flying to Chicago I would take it to the city. Its just a few $.
Have fun
I went in late Sept a few years ago and it was gloriously hot and sunny! But perhaps by Oct it'll have cooled down a tad!
I stayed at the Days Inn at Lincoln Park. Its a nice neighbourhood and not right in the thick of things. The hotel was really good value and very close to an EL Train stop to go downtown, although I walked a few times too.
Definately agree about the Architectural boat trip, it was my highlight. The John Hancock and Sears towers are a must as well for views of the city. Really enjoyed Shedd Aquarium too.
I'm from Chicago, please let me know if you have any questions about it!
Where should I stay? Looking for a good area close to the action, with culture and atmosphere, that won't break the bank.- Really try priceline and try to select the area around the gold coast, its nice and located along the buss lines. Its awesome.
What attractions should I not miss? I love Navy Pier, I'm like a little kid there. Also, I love hockey, so the blackhawks are something to see if you ask me.
What will the weather be like? COLD! PLEASE DRESS WARM.
What's the best way to get around? Any transit pass options? The el and buss offer 3 and 7 day unlimited passes, the cta site has all that info and its super easy to use.
Restaurant recommendations? Clarkes dinners are open 24/7 and are great, hit up Wrigleyville and you'll practically be falling on good restuarants. Oh and theres this place called Aloha Eats, in Lincoln Park. Its amazing, and cheap.
Anything you can tell me about this city would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
0 Response to "Going to Chicago in October need advice"
Post a Comment