Recommendations for a long Chicago weekend
 

Aside from the top tourist attractions like Shedd Aquarium, Planetarium, Field Museum, etc., I was curious if anyone had any other cool spots they'd recommend two guys to check out in the city? We're outdoorsy (though we're going the Nov 8-10 so weather might be chilly), so wasn't sure if any of the river cruises we're still going or not, but just looking for some cool things to see and do that won't have 1 hour + lines and lots of kids?

Appreciate the suggestions :cool:

Let's seek the help of the readers of the dedicated Chicago forum. I'll move this there. Ocn Vw 1K, Moderator, TravelBuzz.

Aside from being outdoorsy, can you give us any other indications of your interests, ages, etc.? Chicago has a wealth of activities and sights, from public art to architecture, from famous sports venues to great restaurants. As long as you steer clear of Navy Pier and the American Girl store, I think you're unlikely to run into huge crowds of kids and long lines in November.

will chilly stop you from being outdoors?

If not, walk south along the lakefront from say North Ave or even Fullerton.
Or rent bikes to do so or utilize Chicago's bike sharing system Divvy:
http://divvybikes.com/how-it-works

River cruises will still be running then, the best (at least in my opinion) is the Chicago Architecture Foundation: www.architecture.org/rivercruise

In my opinion, too! CAF also has a bunch of walking tours.

Divvy bike share is a great option because there are pick-up/drop-off stations everywhere in the central parts of the city.

If it's too cold or if you don't feel like biking, then buy a 1- or 3- day travel card as soon as you arrive in the city. It will work even on train rides to/from airport. And it works in 24-hour increments from your first use.

The city is really easy to navigate, and you could spend an entire day (or just afternoon) walking around one of the neighborhoods. (Wrigleyville, e.g., is centered around Wrigley Field and is blocks from biking/jogging paths on the lake shore.)

If you're looking for good food, I'd recommend setting up reservations at one (or more) of the following places:

Italian - Balena
Sushi - Juno
Taco - Big Star (no reservations & cash only)
Steak - Bavette's
French - Acquitaine
Burger - Au Cheval
Hot Dog - Hot Doug's or Frank N' Dawg

Really appreciate all the suggestions. The river cruise was high on my list and was a tad worried that due to the time of year we're visiting that they might not be running. Glad to hear that's not the case.

Unless something has changed, Au Cheval does not take reservations either, IIRC.

And, wiithout comment on your recommendations, I would recommend these Chicago institutions:

Italian beef - Mr. Beef (no reservations & cash only & lunch only)
Pizza - Lou Malnati's, Pizzeria Uno or Due (no reservations although you can put your pizza order in early)
Cajun - Heaven on Seven

Some of my favorite things to do

• You must have a drink at the Signature Lounge at the Hancock building.
• Ride the loop
• Try Garrett popcorn - it's addictive!
• Federal Reserve Bank
• Visit the Wieners Circle, during the day for a first timer. If you're tough and have a 'tude visit at night.

I'll think of more.....

Would agree having a drink in the Signature Lounge of the Hancock - no need to pay for a visit to the sky deck - this is better !
Heaven on Seven - I usually make a reseravation to be sure for weekends
Walk along Lake Shore Drive .. for as far as you want - having a quick look at Millenium Park on the way.
would say that the Art Institute is well worth a visit
Catch a show whilst in town - Blue Man Group ?
trip to Lincoln Park (also the zoo is there which is free - 151 bus will take you there)