Chicago ~

Hi, I have a biz trip to Chicago Nov. 13-15. I will be staying at the Marriott Courtyard near the convention center. I want to go early, say Friday the 11, and see some of the city Fri and Sat. Can you recommend a hotel? Also I am looking at priceline and have no idea what area to request - Millenium Park, the Loop, Greater Chicago, North Michigan Ave?? This is my first visit to Chicago and I am obviously cluesless!!
Any tips would be appreciated on what to see, where to eat, where to stay, etc... -- TIA!

Re: Chicago ~

I live in Chicago - I can give you lots of ideas!

Since its your first time, I'd suggest you stay on the Magnificent Mile - there is a Marriot there on Grand Ave, the Intercontinental is really nice on Michigan Ave, there is a Hyatt and Sheraton right near there, or if you want to really live it up - the Peninsula, Ritz and Park Hyatt are there also.

The Magnificent Mile is North Michigan Ave. The area north of the river to the end of the street is nicknamed the Mag Mile. Its similar to 5th avenue - lots of tourists and shopping, but much cleaner and the architercture there is beautiful (Wrigley Building, John Hancock building, the Tribune building, the Water Tower). And its a good central location to most sites.

Chicago is known for steaks and red meats, which I don't eat. But, if that is what you want - my DH and lots of male friends love Gibson's - they also have good seafood which is what I always get. Gibsons also owns Lux Bar and Hugo's Frog Bar - they are all on the website.

If you want to venture off the tourist beaten path, I love Adobo Grill . Its a mexican restaurant with the best margaritas and guac! On the site, choose the Old Town location. Its right next to Second City comedy club - where so many famous people started out - Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd, Chris Farley, Gilda Radner, etc.

Another fave of mine is

Cafe Babareeba - again, away from the tourist areas. this is a spanish tapas restaurant - loud, crowded, fun, great sangria.

If you want something really nice, then go to Nomi. It is located in the Park Hyatt and overlooks the Mag Mile. You can then go for a drink on the 96th floor of the Hancock Building (the Signature Lounge) where you'll get an awesome view - floor to ceiling windows!

I have so many more ideas, depending on what type of food you like and your price range. Just fm me!

I found a link for Nomi

Message edited 10/26/2005 2:53:13 PM.

Re: Chicago ~

Wow thanks so much!!! Now I really want to go!!

Of course, now it turns out I may not go -- the trade show is crazy expensive and my boss is thinking of cancelling..

I will hold on to this though so that if I do go, I will know where to go! I may ask more questions later, when I know more...thanks so much!!

Re: Chicago ~

Septbride03...thanks for posting all that info. I was going to suggest Chicago to DH for our Spring trip and can now give him some ideas for places to go.