EMD:

Glad to meet a "neighbor" on the board! We didn't go on the Chicago Architectural Society tour (it was all sold out) but went on the Chicago From the Lake architectural river cruise that leaves out of River East Plaza (formerly known as North Pier) not too far from Navy Pier. From what I've heard, this is the better tour, but I haven't gone on the CAS tour to compare yet. We'll have to meet up sometime when you're in town. http://talk.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

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Regards,
- Anna

As a native Chicago area resident, some of my faviorite spots are the newly renovated Navey Pier, Museum of Science and Industry, Brookfield Zoo and Miller's Pub downtown. Check them out if you get a chance.

Don't forget losing yourself in the Art Institute of Chicago. There's so much to see, and not just paintings. I spent an entire day, browsing, reading, admiring, and didn't make it through the entire place. Was forced to take in some aerobic shopping afterward to unwind!

And the Art Institute has a true CATMAN landmark: the two lions, inspired by Patience and Foritude the Lions that "guard" the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue.

I know Quiet Lion would be a fan of them!


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MEOW! MEOW! MEOW!!!

Lions R me! http://talk.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

QuietLion

I agree with Punki, take a long walk along the lakefront. I usually walk from the area around the Shed Aquarium up to the Navy Pier. While most of the stuff inside the Navy Pier is tackey-touristy they do have some good restaurants. Also on weekends there are usually a few bands playing- and nothing beats having an ice cold beer while sitting on the Pier with the lake in front of you and the Chicago skyline behind listening to some classic rock & roll!
While in Chicago I usually stay at the Hyatt Printers Row, it is smaller and nearer my Chicago office. The best rooms are the '24' as in 424, 524, 624. They are larger corner room, with a VCR & most important, a view of the Lake. Mind you, it is just a sliver-view, but a view none the less. The restaurant there is first rate--kind of Frank Lloyd Wright inspired & great food. Also there is a good pizza place across the street- Edwardo's for take out when you want to just pig out in your room & watch TV.

Speaking of Chicago, does anybody know what the little unmarked, black, single story building that sits across the street from the Westin and is taking up half a block of prime real estate is? I have asked every cabbie that drives me for the last 3 years and most of them don't even remember that it is there. A true mystery. Anna?

Rent a bike and take a 20 mile ride along the longest uninterupted urban lakeshore in the world.

After you've worked up an appetite, stuff yourself at Gibsons on Rush. Home of the biggest meals in town. William "the Refrigerator" Perry's favorite restaurant.

Or Ranalli's on Elm for a huge Calzone.

Punki, I did my grad work across the street from that building. I was told at the time that it is a private club.

That's what I suspected. Wonder what the dues are???