Chicago, the Windy City and home to the legendary gangsters of the 1920s, who were part of the creation of American modern folklore. There are a few attractions that you have to visit in Chicago – some of them on the beaten track and a couple that you may not hear about so often.
Things to See
The Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) is a must. Catch a stomach-lurching 70 second elevator ride to the top of this 110 storey building that dominates the Chicago skyline. Well, not quite the top. The SkyDeck is on the 103rd floor, with the remaining seven being devoted to penthouse suites that are almost as breathtaking as the views from the deck. If you are a little daring, head out onto 'The Ledge' – glass boxes that extend out from the side of the building. Between you and the ground is 103 floors of air, and not much else. If you weren't afraid of heights before, you probably will be afterward.
Things to Do
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a great afternoon of air, animals and deep-fried food. It also has the added advantage of being free to get into, every day of the week. The Art Institute of Chicago is famous for good reason, and has permanent collections of works by David Hockney, Ellsworth Kelly and Eva Hesse. If you are at all inclined to art appreciation, you'll be impressed by the architecture, textiles and photography exhibits. Thursday evening is free entry, but go early as there are usually crowds. Ahh, the Buckingham Fountain. One hundred and thirty four water jets backed by a music and light show. Free, and on every day from dusk until 10pm, in the warmer months.
Off the Beaten Path
To get off the beaten track, you will need to be prepared to be open-minded. As well as plenty of hole-in-the-wall bars and cafes, Chicago is also home to the Western Hemisphere's only Baha'i House of Worship. Baha'i is a Middle Eastern religion (think Buddhism, born in the Arabic sands). Worship usually takes place in the homed of devotees, but this gentle and inclusive faith has seven houses of worship in existence in the world, one of them right here in Illinois. The architecture is stuniing, with a 191 foot dome and a light, airy interior. A great place to go for a little peace in the middle of a hectic holiday.
Hotels
Hotels in Chicago are not as competitively priced as tourist hotspots like Las Vegas, but there are bargains to be found. A cheap hotel will cost around $20 per night, but it's a lottery as to whether you get an adorable family-run inn, or something that reminds you of the city's lawless heyday. Average hotel prices are around $200 - $250 per night, with all of the usual services you would expect, and a great location.
Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder to find top accommodation and cheap hotels in Chicago.
(Photo:Folotia/Thomas Barrat)
