by Helium01

Created on: February 05, 2009   Last Updated: February 23, 2009

Chicago as a Travel Destination

I have travelled to Chicago on several occasions and have yet to be disappointed with all that the windy city has to offer. If you live within a short travel distance of Chicago, I suggest that you plan a weekend getaway. If you live farther away, there is plenty to entertain you for a full week should you choose.

Chicago is situated on the shores of Lake Michigan and features a shoreline that has been intelligently planned and artistically executed. Walking paths stretch from the north to south, allowing joggers, cyclists, and strollers alike to meander along the water's edge, with impressive skyscrapers as the backdrop to the west.

Although Chicago can be managed on foot if you don't plan to stray far from your hotel, the elevated train also offers a reasonably-priced alternative for getting about the city.

Some of the highlights of my trips to Chicago have been:

Hancock Observatory

Ride to the top of this skyscraper and catch a 360-degree bird's eye view of the city. Time your visit right before sunset to take advantage of the daytime views, sunset, and nightscape.

Shedd Aquarium

No trip to Chicago would be complete without a visit to the Shedd Aquarium, housing thousands of species of marine life including dolphins and beluga whales. Situated next to the shoreline, the Aquarium has something for everyone in the family to see

Pizzeria Uno

You wouldn't think that a restaurant would top the list of must-see attractions in a city, but in this case the restaurant is a little different. Pizzeria Uno is home of the original Chicago deep-dish pizza. If you have never had an original Chicago deep-dish, Pizzeria Uno is the place to go. Be warned, however, that your pizza will take up to 45 minutes to cook. But when it arrives it will have been worth the wait!

Grant Park

Some of the best attractions in a city can be free. Grant Park is located near the shores of Lake Michigan and features a stunning water fountain. If you are within walking distance of Grant Park from your hotel, I highly recommend packing a picnic basket and passing a relaxing afternoon by the fountain.

Jerry Springer

Although attending a taping of the television talk show "Jerry Springer" may not be on everyone's to-do list, it was something that my husband and I thought would be a little offbeat and fun. In true television-tabloid form, Jerry Springer did not disappoint. My husband even called Jerry over to make a comment, and got a laugh out of him. Worth doing!

There are many more attractions in Chicago such as the Art Institute, Field Museum, and the Oprah Winfrey Show. With so much to see and do, Chicago is a great family-friendly city vacation destination. The windy city does not disappoint!

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