subject: Planning A Visit To Chicago [print this page] No matter what your area of interest, the Windy City has something for you. As the third largest city in the United States, Chicago makes a great vacation destination, offering world-famous sports, music, arts, architecture, museums, parks, and 29 miles of waterfront paths along Lake Michigan. That is why, whether for a day, a week, or a lifetime, a visit to Chicago is an unforgettable experience. Take a look at the below tips for making the most of a visit to this Midwestern hot spot, from parking and sightseeing to shopping and dining.
Parking:
Parking in downtown Chicago is notoriously stressful, but you can avoid some of the hassle and headaches by doing a little preliminary research before your trip. Some online maps allow you to type in a destination or address and immediately see Chicago parking lots and garages. By doing this, you can plan your parking before you travel, eliminating the time and expense involved with navigating through the streets of a new town. Save yourself the stress of Chicago city parking, and you have more time to enjoy all the area offers.
Sightseeing:
Chicago has no shortage of exciting attractions. Visit the boardwalk and 150-foot Ferris wheel of Navy Pier, shoot photos at the bean at Millennium Park, take your pick of museums, or enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower or the Hancock Observatory. Touring Chicago does not need to break the bank, either: free opportunities include Lincoln Park Zoo, Garfield Park Conservatory, and the Chicago Cultural Center. You could even take in a show, a concert, or a ballgame if your schedule allows. Summer concerts are a great way to relax and hear free music in Millennium park.
Shopping:
Big-name retail and boutique shopping converge in Chicago, which not only houses the Magnificent Mile and historic State Street but also all kinds of chic spots in Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Bucktown, and Armitage Avenue. Whether you are looking for something specific or just a chance to browse new shelves, you will find what you like in Chicago's diverse shopping scene.
Dining:
Ask the average person about Chicago food, and you are likely to hear references to hot dogs and deep-dish pizza, but those hallmarks are not all the city offers. Chicago is truly a culinary mecca in its own right, with a continually developing foodie scene of established chefs and award-winning restaurants. From ethnic to seafood, barbecue to bistro, high-class to corner diner, this city has it all. Whether you're vegan or pure carnivore, Chicago's restaurants will keep you full and happy.
