Chicago is an incredible city with so much cultural activity and a vibrant restaurant scene. From theaters to museums, there is something for everyone in this lively locale.
Spirit Air offers reduced daily nonstop fares from Boston (but they do charge extra for checked baggage, carry-on luggage, seat assignments and all beverages and snacks on the plane). Be sure to request the "Big Front Seats" (for an extra fee) which are similar to first class seats in size but do not include the standard complimentary snacks or drinks. To learn more about flights and fares, visit SpiritAir.com.
A visit to Chicago would be incomplete without a visit to the Willis Tower, one of the world’s tallest buildings, where you can find an amazing panoramic view of the city from The Skydeck. If you have ever wondered what it would be like to look down from 103 floors, now is your chance. Stand out on The Ledge for an unobstructed view from a glass room and floor overlooking Wacker Drive and the Chicago River from 1,353 feet above. For more information, visit TheSkyDeck.com.
Chicago is well known for its restaurants and Joe’s Seafood Prime Steak & Stone Crab is a must stop here. Start off with the deliciously rich spinach stuffed mushroom appetizer filled with garlic and cheese, and you can’t go wrong (Appetizers and side dishes are all available in half orders for lighter fare). For the main event, be sure to try their signature juicy bone-in filet cooked to perfection. End the night right with a taste of heavenly key lime pie. The enormous dining room is filled to capacity on weekend nights so be sure to call ahead for a reservation. The restaurant is located at 60 East Grand Avenue. For reservations visit Joes.net.
Dose Market, located at the River East Art Center, 435 East Illinois Street, is a great way to check out some of the city’s best vendors under one roof. Each month on a Sunday, the market hosts a variety of fashion, artisan food and high design artisans. The next one is being held on December 4. Visit DoseMarket.com to see more.
If you are unsure what to do and where to go while visiting Chicago, be sure to check out ExploreChicago.org for the most up to date information on cultural attractions, nightlife, performing arts, shopping and sightseeing. Some participating attractions include the Adler Planetarium, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago Children’s Museum, Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Blue Chicago and discounts at Bloomingdale’s.
While staying downtown, The Sax Chicago is the best choice, located in the heart of the Marina City complex on the Chicago River. A stay here allows charging privileges at several nearby restaurants, including Smith & Wollensky, Bin 36 wine bar, Harry Caray’s and the House of Blues (We loved the 10-pin bowling lounge for some late night fun). The king studio was a spacious room that offered a king bed and separate living area by way of a curtain with pull-out sofa and flat screen television with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the city. Just in time for the holidays, the hotel is offering a shopping package that includes an overnight stay, discount on valet parking and Macy’s gift card. For more information, visit ThompsonHotels.com. The Sax Chicago is located at 333 North Dearborn.
