To Do Trip: Chicago

Another trip that is on my "To Do" list is an extended weekend spent in Chicago. It is true, it is not such an exotic locale but I think there are some interesting things to see and do, beyond The Oprah Winfrey Show.


Affinia Hotel Chicago
A highly rated (at least on the internet) boutique hotel. Between their offers of six different kinds of pillows and the "Experience Kits", I can't see how this place could be anything but wonderful. (One kit of interest is the "Walking Tour Kit" - includes an iPod Shuffle or Nano loaded with Affinia playlists; City Walks deck of cards; city guidebook featuring popular walking tours; StreetWise city map; pedometer; and towel.)


Puck's at the MCA - Wolfgang Puck's restaurant inside the Museum of Contemporary Art. Sunday brunch is supposed to be delightful.


Buddy Guy's Legends - Blues Club and Restaurant
Crab cakes, barbecue ribs, po'boys and the blues. It would be impossible for this not to be wonderful.


The Bristol - A Neighborhood Eatery & Bar
Two dishes that say it all (for me):
1. Pan Roasted Halibut, Parisian Gnocchi, Snap Peas, Cracklin’
2. Duck Fat Fries, House Ketchup, Garlic Aioli


The Publican -
The to die for dish is supposed to be their pork rinds. Strange I know but it's worth a go. The menu lists the farms and areas that the menu items are from. (lots of fish and pork)


Chicago Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tours
Food tastings, enough for lunch, from historic "mom and pop" specialty food stores and one-of-a-kind ethnic eateries while viewing Chicago's historic architecture. The tours are only three hours long and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Plus the guides give restaurant recommendations.


Architectural River Tour
90 minute narrated cruise on the Chicago River where you can view over 50 architecturally significant sites.


Museums in the Park - (video review from Ovation TV (link)
Adler Planetarium
The Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago History Museum
Dusable Museum of African American History
The Field Museum
Museum of Contemporary Art
Museum of Science and Industry
National Museum of Mexican Art
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Shedd Aquarium