On the FLW theme - you can go to the Robie House in Hyde Park

http://www.wrightplus.org/robiehouse/robiehouse.html

Another FLW place I really like is the Dana House in Springfield. You can take the train down there and stay overnight (www.amtrak.com). You can see everything in the downtown area within a day, trust me! You can see the Lincoln Home, the Dana House (which is one of the best perserved homes from that era), the state capitols (old and new), Lincoln Museum, Governor's Mansion. The train stops right downtown and you can walk everywhere (you have to like to walk but it can be easily done - I have done it - took the kids on a Lincoln trip this summer - they loved me for it ).

Otherwise, head to the Lincoln Park Zoo. It is free and then afterwards, go take a walk around the neighborhood. There are a lot of shops in the Armitage/Halsted area or just heading north on Clark from Fullerton. Also a lot of restaurants in this area (and a few bars that I have tried out .

For a nice view of the lake, take the 147 bus from Michigan Ave - it goes express to Foster and gives you a great view of our lakefront. You can get off at the first stop on Foster and cross the street and take it back. Or you can get off at Foster and Sheridan and walk 4 blocks west to Clark St to Andersonville where you will find Hopleaf - one the hidden gems in Chicago - if you like beer, this is the place to go. There is a heavy emphasis on Belgian beers. You won't be disappointed... http://www.hopleaf.com/...i have spent many Saturday afternoons here!

Another unique neighborhood is the area around North/Damen off of the Blue Line.