Chicago
In this metropolis, which is the third largest city in America, public transport is efficient to say the least. It’s easy to pinpoint exactly where you are at any time too using just the skyline - simply look to the tallest skyscraper in the USA: Willis Tower. Its viewing platform, at 412 meters above the busy street level, offers an amazing view of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier and other major attractions.
In Lincoln Park, just north of downtown, offers beaches, sports fields and landscaped gardens. On the south side of the park is the Chicago History Museum, which tells complete the history of the Windy City, including tales of notorious gangsters like the infamous Al Capone. Stroll through the gardens of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, or spend the afternoon at the Lincoln Park Zoo, which houses more than 1,000 animals. Then there’s Brookfield Zoo, 19 kilometres west of the city centre; it’s more than twice as large and houses big cats, several species of primates and even dolphins.
Head back toward Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile and you’ll find the best shops in the city. It's a good place for lunch or dinner, or to watch people while sipping a coffee or a beer. Just south of the Magnificent Mile is the great Art Institute of Chicago, which is definitely worth a visit. The collection includes European and American masterpieces by greats such as Monet and Van Gogh. Nearby is the Millennium Park, a meeting place with public art and spectacular summer concerts.
Chicago has been (and is) home to some very influential people. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Museum and House, where the famous writer was born. You’ll also find the first house of architect Frank Lloyd Wright in the beautiful district of Oak Park (Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio). He designed number of houses and buildings in the area, including Unity Temple which is considered one of his best designs. Stop at the Garfield Park Conservatory on your way back to the centre, a city oasis with rare and exotic plants.
A trip to Chicago wouldn’t be complete without a game at legendary Wrigley Field. In the evening visit the Navy Pier with its lively bars and restaurants, or opt for a night of blues or jazz in one of the legendary clubs of Chicago. Try BLUES, just north of the centre of Kingston Mines a few kilometres to the north to Lincoln Park.
