The Happy Jetlagger

Tag: Chicago

The 20 Best Things to Do in Chicago

Chicago is a truly impressive city: a huge skyline, pure city life, but also lots of greenery and long beaches on the shores of the huge Lake Michigan. Unlike its big sister New York, the people here are incredibly open-minded and friendly: Chicago is known for its positive attitude to life! Although I’ve never been a big fan of the USA, I was immediately taken with Chicago. I’ll tell you my favorite Chicago sights here!

Sightseeing in Chicago: My budget tip!

Chicago is not exactly cheap! As in all major American cities, accommodation and meals are a big hole in the wallet. But you shouldn’t skimp on good food in the foodie mecca of Chicago! And you shouldn’t miss out on some of the paid attractions such as the Willis Tower (or 360 Chicago) or the Art Institute.

My tips:
➜ Save money on many sights: Buy a Chicago Pass in advance!*
➜ Compare prices & book your accommodation in good time here!*

#1 The Bean & Millenium Park

Sir Anish Kapoor’s sculpture in Millennium Park is actually called Cloud Gate, but because it looks like a bean, the nickname stuck: The Bean. This is probably the most popular must-see photo spot in the whole of Chicago. Not only because of the crowds of people who make a pilgrimage here every day, but also because of The Bean itself: The reflections in the stainless steel sculpture are simply fascinating.

But The Bean is not the only work of art worth seeing here: next door is the Crown Fountain, a water-spouting video installation that provides refreshment, especially for children, during Chicago’s scorching hot summers.

#2 Willis Tower

The Willis Tower used to be called the Sears Tower and was the tallest building in the world. That is ancient history, but the view from Skydeck Chicago is still impressive. The four glass balconies (“The Ledge”) are a particular highlight: Even the floor is made of glass. Not for those afraid of heights.

➜ Save yourself waiting time & buy your ticket here in advance*

Do you also want to travel to the USA?
There are lots of helpful tips and travel reports on my USA blog.

#3 360 Chicago at the John Hancock Center

If you want to see Chicago from a different perspective than from the Willis Tower, you should go to 360 Chicago. On the Tilt extra attraction, you can lie down on glass panes that tilt forwards.

➜ Buy your ticket for 360 Chicago*

By the way: admission to attractions such as the Skydeck or 360 Chicago is quite expensive. With the Chicago City Pass* you can save up to 50%, so it’s best to work out in advance whether you want to pay for admission individually or whether you’d rather take the pass.

➜ You can buy the Chicago City Pass here!

#4 Magnificent Mile / Michigan Avenue

Michigan Avenue in the center of Chicago is lined with one huge store after another: All the big stores are represented here. Quite ostentatious – which is why this stretch of Michigan Avenue is also known as the “Magnificent Mile”.

Incidentally, you can stay here in style at the Warwick Allerton, one of Chicago’s most historic hotels. Recently renovated, you live here in one of those old skyscrapers like in the movies: large rooms, high ceilings. And everything at its finest.

➜ Book your room at the Warwick Allerton Chicago*

#5 Chicago Riverwalk

The formerly derelict banks of the Chicago River have been given a real facelift: now you can stroll along them or simply take a short lunch break at one of the beach bars. The more sporty get into a kayak, the more comfortable take one of the water cabs and explore Chicago by water. By the way, water cabs are part of Chicago’s public transportation system!

➜ Timetables & tickets for the water cabs can be found here!

#6 Navy Pier

The leisure area directly on the lake is almost in the middle of the city. Almost a hundred years old, it was given quite a facelift in the nineties and now offers all kinds of leisure activities, from a Ferris wheel to a musical theater and art exhibitions.

You have a great view of Chicago and Lake Michigan from the Ferris wheel:
➜ Buy your ticket for the “Centennial Wheel” on Navy Pier* here

The numerous cafés and restaurants are a great place to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy the view of Lake Michigan – in the beer garden, for example, with a beer and a traditional Chicago hot dog. There are always free fireworks on Wednesday and Saturday evenings. Many other free events such as concerts and festivals can also be found in the event calendar.

#7 Chicago Elevated, Loop, “L”

It is actually called Chicago Elevated, but Chicago’s elevated train is also known simply by the letter “L”. Particularly striking is the Loop, the ring that cuts through the street canyons in the middle of Downtown.

#8 Lake Michigan and Lakefront Trail by Segway

The Lakefront Trail runs along the entire length of the city, perfect for jogging, cycling – and Segway riding! The distances are huge, so a vehicle is pretty handy.

With a Segway you can see a lot more of Chicago’s long waterfront promenade. The lakefront is definitely one of Chicago’s great leisure attractions: An absolute must when the weather is nice!

➜ Book the Segway tour along the Lakefront Trail here*

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#9 Art Institute of Chicago

If you really want to see all the exhibitions, you’re guaranteed to be busy for a whole day. But a visit just for the highlights is also worthwhile! Numerous American classics such as Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks hang in the Art Institute of Chicago .

Buy your ticket here in advance & save waiting time*

Admission is quite steep at 25 dollars, but with city passes such as the Chicago City Pass* you can save a lot of money here too if you are sightseeing through Chicago anyway.

You can read my experience report about the Chicago City Pass here: Chicago City Pass – Is it really worth it?

#10 Chicago Theatre

Even if you don’t attend a show at the Chicago Theatre, a photo in front of the legendary neon sign is a must! At lunchtime, you can take a guided tour of the inside of the venerable Chicago Theatre, and in the evening, superstars from Jerry Seinfeld to Madonna perform here. Or you can visit the Chicago Theatre during the day with a guided tour*.

#11 Jazz clubs & live music

Jazz and blues are the leading musical genres in Chicago. And if you don’t feel like dancing after a long day of sightseeing, a jazz club is the perfect choice to round off a day in Chicago. Andy’s Jazz Club, for example, offers live music from all jazz genres every evening with good cocktails.

#12 Chicago’s Deep Pan Pizza

Chicago is famous for its deep dish pizza or deep pan pizza, which was invented here in the 1940s. The original is said to have originated at Pizzeria Uno – but Gino’s East and Lou Malnati’s can also look back on a long deep pan pizza tradition. Unlike traditional pizza, Chicago pizza is served in a pan, with the cheese underneath the other toppings on a cornmeal crust. It may not have much to do with an original Italian pizza, but the Chicago pizza is still delicious.

Gino’s East is worth a visit for the interior design alone: the entire(!) restaurant is scribbled on from top to bottom. Every guest can immortalize themselves here with a sharpie!

#13 Route 66

The legendary Route 66 actually starts here in Chicago! Route 66 is no longer an official road, but the old sign on Adams Boulevard marking the beginning is still there. By the way: A road trip along Route 66 from Chicago, as I did, is also highly recommended! You can read more about my road trip through Illinois here:

➜ Road trip along Route 66: eight unforgettable stops

#14 West Loop, Randolph Street & Fulton Market Street

The new restaurant mile in Chicago’s gastronomic heaven: Chicago is known for its fantastic restaurants. In West Loop, a new generation of eateries has established itself along Randolph Street and Fulton Market. There’s always something going on here in the evening.

Once a year, in the summer, there’s the “Taste of Randolph,” a street festival featuring events and live music, in which many of the neighborhood’s restaurants participate and where you can sample all their specialties at affordable prices. My tip: breakfast at Soho House.

#15 Wicker Park

In Berlin you would say: Wicker Park is really cool. In big cities, I always like to take a look at the small, neighborhoods because you simply get to see more of real life here. If I hadn’t opted for accommodation in the middle of the city, I would probably have ended up in Wicker Park, one of Chicago’s hipster neighborhoods, so to speak. Street art, cool bars, individual stores – my creative heart was happy!

My tips for Wicker Park:

Dove’s Luncheonette Really, really cool location: Tex-Mex cuisine is reinterpreted here in retro luncheonette style under the elevated railway bridge. Could have tasted my way through the entire menu.

Milwaukee Avenue If the Magnificent Mile is too busy with huge chain stores, you’ll feel much more at home shopping on Milwaukee Avenue. Here you can still find small stores between larger indie chains like Urban Outfitters, and you can stroll around much more comfortably than on the sometimes hectic Mag Mile.

#16 The 606 / Bloomingdale Trail and Park

Relatively unknown, as it is located just outside the city center between Logan Square and Humboldt Park: The 606 is a disused elevated railway line that has now been converted into an amusement park. Above the rooftops of Chicago, you can jog, cycle and do whatever else you can think of over a length of more than 4 kilometers. A great detour when visiting Wicker Park!

#17 Humboldt Park

A melting pot of cultures – that’s always a hackneyed phrase when talking about life in big cities. In Chicago, however, it really hits the nail on the head. People from so many nations live here that you sometimes feel like you’re on a little trip around the world. Humboldt Park is a district where many Puerto Ricans live: In summer, there is a big street carnival here with lots of salsa, bachata, reggaeton and merengue and my Brazilian genes were jumping in triangles!

#18 Buckingham Fountain

Children of the 90s will immediately recognize it and revel in TV memories: When I saw the Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park, I immediately thought of the opening credits of “A terribly nice family”. The best thing for everyone else to do is simply marvel at one of the largest fountains in the world. The Buckingham Fountain is really huge!

#19 Oak Street Beach & Co.

Chicago simply has it all: vibrant city life, lots of greenery, the great Lake Michigan – and even great city beaches! Oak Street Beach is one of the most popular, but you wouldn’t expect to find beaches like 12th Street Beach next to the Adler Planetarium in a big city like Chicago.

#20 Chicago for gourmets and foodies

Chicago lives up to its name as a gourmet destination. Food is generally a tricky subject in the USA – while you can find burgers and deep-fried convenience products on every corner, other dishes can sometimes be a bit hit and miss. In Chicago, however, everyone should be able to find what they are looking for.

You can find more restaurant tips for Chicago in my Chicago restaurant guide!

28/08/2019
8 Amazing Stops For a Road Trip on the Route 66 Through Illinois
Route 66 has an irresistible charm that touches everyone. Its promise of freedom, open spaces, and classic Americana is truly captivating. I remember feeling this myself when we started our road trip from Chicago along Route 66 through Illinois. It’s interesting to note—despite its fame as the oldest east-west highway in the U.S., Route 66 doesn’t begin on the East Coast as I had always assumed. Instead, it starts right in Chicago, Illinois, and winds through states like Missouri and Texas all the way to California.

In this article I take you on our USA road trip on Route 66 in Illinois – and I can reveal in advance: After so many wonderful encounters on our way through Illinois, I would have loved to just drive on endlessly like Bob Waldmire, my secret hero of Route 66!

#1 Chicago: The Beginning of Route 66 in Illinois

Route 66 actually begins in the middle of Chicago opposite the Art Institute Chicago, not far from the famous sculpture The Bean. On East Adams Street between Wabash Avenue and Michigan Avenue is the beginning of Route 66.

If you don’t know, you’ll walk right past the small street sign, in the skyscraper canyons of Chicago! Nearby, by the way, is already the first mandatory stop on Route 66:

At the legendary Lou Mitchell’s, the oldest diner in town, you can get in the mood for a road trip in an authentic vintage diner atmosphere. The food is typical American diner fare: hearty and plentiful. The taste didn’t exactly blow me away, but the rustic atmosphere made up for it.

Chicago, by the way, is one of the American cities that have taken my heart by storm!

For more on Chicago, check out the following posts:
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#2 Joliet: Blues Brothers & Old State Prison on Route 66 in Illinois

The authentic road trip feeling kicks in within minutes of leaving the city as the expansive Midwest begins to reveal itself. Illinois’s Route 66 is rich with sights, making the first stop only 77km from Chicago. Joliet, Illinois, offers a charming preview of a journey filled with surprises and friendly encounters: Route 66 is alive with stories!

Like many stories, the Old State Prison in Joliet has a tale to tell. You can’t miss this historic prison, over 150 years old and operational until 2002. For many years, access was restricted, leading to the large complex falling into disrepair.
Facts About Route 66
- opened in 1926
- Length: just under 4000km
- Start: Chicago, Illinois – End: Santa Monica, California
- runs through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California
- today completely replaced by interstate highways that run parallel to the old Route 66
- many parts are abandoned today
- in Illinois a lot of restoration has been done around Route 66
Today, events and guided tours are held there. Fun Fact: The prison has appeared in many series, such as Prison Break, and movies like Blues Brothers. Visitors can even see the cell from Blues Brothers.

More about our visit to Joliet Prison shortly before it was opened to the public:
Lost Place on Route 66

Other exciting spots to check out in Joliet:

Visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center to find plenty of information about Route 66, helping you get in the perfect mood for your trip.

The Rialto Square Theatre built in 1926, is a magnificent theater that can also be visited during the day.

Where to Eat & Drink in Joliet

For a midday snack, we visited MyGrain Brewery (a pun in the name!), situated in the recently renovated old Joliet train station. Beer enthusiasts will enjoy the house-brewed beers. The small brewing facility can be explored more up close by request, with a personal tour included. Like much of Illinois, the people are exceptionally friendly and welcoming!

Are you planning a trip to the U.S.?
You’ll find lots of tips and inspiration on my USA blog

#3 Wilmington: Gemini Giant & The Launching Pad

Just beyond Joliet, in Wilmington, you’ll find the well-known Gemini Giant! This statue is part of the iconic “Muffler Men,” large figures used to promote stores, gas stations, and restaurants along Route 66. Nearby is the Launching Pad, a former Route 66 restaurant.

After standing empty for a long time, the new owners have opened a very charming Route 66 Welcome Center there, where you can reminisce about good old Route 66 with many original photos and exhibits.

As with everywhere else, the locals here are proud and eager to share stories about their lives on Route 66, including Tully, owner of the Launching Pad. For an authentic tourist photo, even the local sheriff arrived at the end, happily allowing us to take a picture with him—showcasing the warm-hearted American friendliness that is truly special.

#4 Pontiac: Route 66 Sights, Street Art & My Hero Bob Waldmire

Although Pontiac is associated with Route 66 and cars, its name actually comes from an Indian chief, not the car brand. It might seem like a quiet, sleepy town at first, but there’s so much to explore that we ended up spending nearly a whole day here! Highlights in Pontiac include:

Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum

At the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum, I learned about Bob Waldmire’s story—someone who, in today’s Instagram era, might be summed up with the hashtag #vanlife.

Bob Waldmire’s van: an entirely unique piece!

Also inside, it remains in its original condition: a creative chaos filled with Route 66 souvenirs.

Bob Waldmire’s older VW Bulli, which can also be seen in the museum, even appeared in a Pixar movie.

In his van, displayed in the museum courtyard, he traveled the full length of Route 66 from Illinois to California over his lifetime. He led a simple life, living in harmony with nature, and earned a living through his art. He carefully wrote travel guides for Route 66, among other projects, until he passed away from cancer at an advanced age. His motto was:

I didn’t want to learn anything, so I became a traveling artist.
Bob Waldmire

International Walldog Mural & Sign Art Exhibit

Murals by the Walldogs, a group of street artists, can be seen throughout Pontiac. An interesting exhibition is integrated into the Route 66 Museum. The most famous mural is located at the back of the Route 66 Museum: don’t miss it!

Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum

Mainly beautiful classic cars from the golden age of Route 66, but also lots of vintage flair. If you still have some time, you should also take a look at the Pontiac Automobile Museum!

Dongbai International Airbrush Art School

A few years ago, Dong Bai, a Chinese artist, came to Pontiac from Beijing—and stayed because he liked it so much. Today, he teaches airbrush classes in his studio, sells his paintings, and also paints portraits, such as that of the mayor, who—full of pride at so much international flair—showed us around Dong’s studio after closing time—he has the key, after all; the two are friends.

Where to Eat & Drink in Pontiac

Bernardi’s, located across from the Livingston County Courthouse, serves Italian cuisine with an American twist. The spacious aisles are intentional, accommodating a large folding table used for main courses for several people, where large plates are set and organized. The portions are generous.

The Cup and the Scone offers coffee with a twist: the owners are incredibly cordial, and anyone who likes is always welcome to join the regular game nights.

#5 Springfield, Illinois: Abraham Lincoln & The Original Route 66

For Americans, Springfield is like a pilgrimage site of modernity: Abraham Lincoln, one of the most beloved US presidents and the father of modern America, worked here. Slavery was abolished during his presidency! Springfield is not only home to Lincoln landmarks, but it also serves as the capital of Illinois (not Chicago!) and boasts plenty of Route 66 and Midwest charm.

What to See in Springfield

Don’t miss Abraham Lincoln’s house and the mausoleum (rubbing the nose of the Lincoln statue in front of it is said to bring good luck!). The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum offers an excellent overview of history (be sure to check out the movie theater—it’s fascinating!).

Original Route 66: Historic Brick Road Near Springfield

Just outside Springfield (Snell Road and Curran Road, Auburn, IL), nestled among cornfields, there’s still an original, preserved section of Route 66. It’s hard to believe that Route 66 was originally paved with nothing but thick bricks. By the way, this section is open to traffic. A must-see for that authentic Route 66 vibe!

Where to Eat in Springfield

Leave room in your stomach for Springfield’s famous specialties: Cozy Dogs and Horseshoe Sandwiches are classic Route 66 fare.

Read my full guide about Springfield, Illinois:
The Best Things to Do in Springfield, Illinois

#6 Pink Elephant Antique Mall in Livingston, IL: Vintage Shopping on Route 66

By now, you’re definitely caught up in Route 66 fever —and that’s when a shopping paradise like the Pink Elephant Antique Mall comes in handy! Here, you’ll find every kind of vintage item and Route 66 memorabilia you could ever dream of. Old advertising signs, LPs, furniture……the list is endless. I picked up a working, pastel-colored typewriter there for a bargain price, and the surprised looks from the security staff at the airport when I placed my typewriter next to my MacBook on the conveyor belt were priceless.

Tip: Are you fascinated by the Route 66 vibe? Then you’ll really enjoy this article about Amarillo, Texas—because the historic Route 66 runs through there, too!

#7 Cahokia Mounds: A Pre-Columbian Mystery

For a long time, the Cahokia Mounds remained undiscovered. People simply didn’t wonder about the uniform, tall mounds in the otherwise flat landscape—after all, they had always been there. That is, until archaeologists discovered one of the largest pre-Columbian cities north of Mexico here in the 1960s: Thousands of people lived in Cahokia at that time. The significance of the mounds, the Cahokia Mounds, remains unclear to this day. In part, the flat mounds served as building sites for more stately dwellings, but also as burial sites.

#8 Alton: Famous Men & The World’s Biggest Ketchup Bottle

Alton is the last stop on Route 66 in Illinois. For a town of its size, little Alton on the Mississippi (yes, it really feels like the South here, with its Mississippi River cruises on paddlewheelers) has produced quite a few famous sons: One of them, Miles Davis, was quite short, but he was one of the world’s greatest jazz trumpeters, and the other, Robert Wadlow, at 2.72 meters, was actually the tallest person ever to live. Even bigger, however, is the world’s largest ketchup bottle (or, as they say here, “catsup”)! Water towers are typical of the U.S. Midwest, and a former ketchup factory in Collinsville simply built theirs in the shape of a ketchup bottle!

By the way, Alton is considered by many to be a spritual place. Mark Twain once referred to Alton as a gritty little town on the Mississippi. High crime rates and the turmoil of the Civil War (the border between the northern and southern states ran through the region) did the rest.

There’s no trace of that gloomy atmosphere left today—but you can still follow in the footsteps of “Haunted Alton” on a guided tour. The McPike Mansion offers guided tours and séances—it sounds a bit bizarre, but once I stepped into the atmospheric vaulted cellar, I realized you can’t deny the house’s unique energy.

Food & Drink in Alton

Fast Eddie’s Bon Air Whether for steamy bachelor parties or a lazy afternoon beer, Fast Eddie’s Bon Air is an institution! The food is good value and the beer selection is huge.

Gentelin’s on Broadway The perfect change of pace for the evening: Gentelin’s on Broadway offers fine dining and the best cocktails, served at your table in a mini shaker.

Where To Stay in Alton

Here’s a unique tip for Alton: stay at the Beall Mansion, where you’ll experience an elegant city villa that’s thoughtfully furnished and offers exquisite dining. You can also opt for a personalized spa package including a massage. I truly suggest it for its romantic ambiance and as an ideal way to conclude a memorable road trip.

Book your room at Beall Mansion here

Disclosure: This road trip has been realized with the support of Enjoy Illinois.
18/08/2019
Chicago CityPASS: Reviews, Comparison & Prices
Can you really save money with the Chicago City Pass? Chicago is a popular destination for city breaks in the U.S. But if you try to see every single attraction, sightseeing in Chicago can quickly get expensive. The Chicago City Pass is often promoted as a great way to save money. But is it really worth it? In this article, I’ll compare which Chicago attractions let you save money.

Buy the Chicago City Pass online!*

More about Chicago:
➜ Top 20 Attractions in Chicago (+Map!)
➜ Chicago Food Guide
➜ Architecture in Chicago
➜ Helpful Information for Chicago

#1 Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower

With the Chicago City Pass, admission to both of Chicago’s top observation decks is included! The Willis Tower is THE must-see attraction in Chicago! From the Skydeck at the very top, you’ll have a fantastic view of Chicago and Lake Michigan!

By the way, the Willis Tower used to be called the Sears Tower, after the company that had the building constructed, and was actually the tallest skyscraper in the world when it opened in 1974. These days, it’s “only” the second-tallest building in the U.S. after One World Trade Center in New York, but hey, I can tell you, that’s still high enough!

On a clear day, you can see four states at once, and Chicago, with its 2 million residents, looks absolutely tiny.

By the way, the Skydeck Chicago features four glass balconies—the “Ledges”—made entirely of glass: walls, ceiling, and floor! The area measures about 2 by 3 meters. So when you step forward, you’re standing entirely on glass. Below you: over 90 stories! By the way, I thought I wouldn’t dare—but the idea of standing on nothing but a glass floor hundreds of meters above the street is so bizarre and unbelievable that my reservations vanished immediately.

The glass balconies alone make it worth a visit!

Regular price for the Day/Night package: $48

Visit the Skydeck Chicago with the Chicago City Pass!*

Advantage with the Chicago CityPass: The CityPass entitles you not just to one, but to TWO visits to the Skydeck on the same day. In addition to the regular daytime admission, you also get an evening admission starting at 6 p.m., so you can see Chicago at night, too! Highly recommended for taking photos.

#2 Art Institute of Chicago / Adler Planetarium

With the Chicago City Pass, you have to choose: art or science? The Chicago City Pass grants you admission to either the Art Institute of Chicago or the Adler Planetarium.

Art Institute Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is exceptional in the scope of its collection: From Byzantine art to contemporary photography, you’ll find everything here. It’s guaranteed to take a full day to see the entire exhibition. So it makes sense to think about what you’d like to see beforehand, before you get overwhelmed by so much art. I really wanted to see “Nighthawks” by Edward Hopper, and even if the name doesn’t ring a bell—everyone knows the painting. And there’s hardly any other painting that’s perceived as so quintessentially American.

At $25, admission is very expensive, but it’s well worth it—the collection is fantastic, and the temporary exhibitions are always interesting and varied. The helpful audio guide costs extra as well!

Regular price $25 + $7 audio guide = $32

Adler Planetarium

The Adler Planetarium is the must-see attraction in Chicago for all space enthusiasts. Here, you can see an old space capsule and many other interesting exhibits related to space exploration.

The film screenings (Sky Shows) are also highly recommended! Without them, the planetarium is only half as exciting!

Regular price for admission + 2 Sky Shows: $35

Ad / *affiliate links

#3 Field Museum

The Field Museum of Natural History is one of the most visited museums in the United States! It is known worldwide as a natural history museum and houses one of the largest collections of natural history and anthropological artifacts. Here, you can marvel at the best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex ever found!

Regular Price for All-Access Pass: $40

#4 Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is the world’s largest indoor aquarium and has been around since 1929! Here, you can truly immerse yourself in the underwater world and see all kinds of marine life, amphibians, and insects—from seahorses to beluga whales—up close!

Regular price $39.95

Click here for the Chicago City Pass!*

#5 360 Chicago Observation Deck / Museum of Science and Industry

If you don’t want to go up to another observation deck, here’s your option: As an alternative to 360 Chicago, you can also visit the Museum of Science and Industry!

360 Chicago Observation Deck

The 360 Chicago Observation Deck is located in the John Hancock Center right in the heart of the Magnificent Mile—so it’s right in the thick of things!

In addition to the naturally fantastic view, TILT stands out for its floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that you can lean against and tilt forward along with the window!

TILT costs an additional $8; for Chicago City Pass holders, it’s an extra $7. There’s also a Day/Night package available, but it’s not included in the Chicago City Pass.

Regular price: 360 Chicago $25

Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is the largest science museum in the U.S. It features exciting and interactive exhibits on the topic of science. It’s not just kids and science buffs who’ll enjoy this elaborately designed museum! Downside: The Museum of Science and Industry is quite far from all the other attractions south of downtown. So if you don’t have much time, you’re better off choosing 360 Chicago.

Regular price $19.95

Pros and Cons of the Chicago City Pass:

Advantages:
- Long Validity Period: The Chicago City Pass is valid for up to one year after purchase. This means you can plan well in advance while still maintaining flexibility.
- Long Validity Period: The Chicago City Pass is valid for 9 days starting from the first day of use—that’s longer than most people even stay in the city! So you can take your time exploring everything without rushing!
- Instantly printable or mobile tickets: You don’t necessarily need the coupon booklet—you can print out the Chicago City Pass right after purchase or save it to your phone. At the attractions, all you have to do is show your smartphone.
- All the Major Attractions The Chicago City Pass covers Chicago’s major attractions—in other words, everything you’ll probably want to see anyway!
- Fast Entry: At some attractions, you can get in faster with the Chicago City Pass
Disadvantages:
- Unnecessary Options: The Chicago City Pass includes some options that you might not necessarily choose to add if you were buying them individually, such as the Sky Shows at the Adler Planetarium or the audio guide at the Art Institute
- Fast Track Isn’t Available Everywhere: Where it would really be worth it—namely, on the ride up to the Skydeck—the Chicago City Pass doesn’t grant fast access through the Fast Track entrance. The Fast Track pass costs $30 with the Chicago City Pass (regular price: $75). If you’re in a hurry, you should factor this additional cost into your budget.
Conclusion: Is the Chicago City Pass worth it?

I recommend the Chicago City Pass to anyone visiting Chicago for the first time and staying for several days! For example, the Skydeck, the Art Institute, and 360 Chicago were already on my Chicago bucket list! Without the pass, I would have paid $105 just for those three attractions—the Chicago City Pass costs $108.

The Chicago City Pass is a great value for first-time visitors and trips lasting several days!

So with 3 out of 5 attractions, you’ve already gotten your money’s worth (give or take $3). Since you have a full 9 days to redeem the other two vouchers and explore two more great (and otherwise expensive!) attractions, the Chicago City Pass is definitely worth it!

You can buy the Chicago City Pass online HERE!*

You should also check out my tips for Chicago!
Find out here what else there is to experience in Chicago:
10/08/2019
Chicago Food Guide: 6 Really Good Locations
Chicago is an absolute foodie paradise! Endless restaurants, bars, and cafés! Do people think you can only get bad food in the U.S.? Not in Chicago… researching this Chicago Food Guide was really no trouble at all. I have to admit that I often have a hard time finding good food in the U.S. Burgers and the like are certainly okay every now and then, but constantly eating fried, oversalted food, with little fresh fruit and vegetables and no variety in flavors, gets boring in the long run. In big cities, you can still find alternatives—expensive as usual, but not very spectacular or worth the price. Chicago, on the other hand, is a paradise for anyone who loves good food and drinks: here, one great restaurant follows another, just like the fantastic bars with excellent bartenders. I’ve put together a small selection for you here: My Top Restaurants in Chicago—Classics and New Trends!

1) Gino’s East: The Original Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

The Deep Dish Pizza is probably the most famous Chicago dish. Invented by Italian immigrants, deep dish pizza is as much a part of Chicago as the Willis Tower. You really shouldn’t leave Chicago without trying a Deep Dish Pizza once. At the same time, the Deep Dish Pizza is so very different from the traditional Italian pizza.

It’s smaller and thicker, similar to a quiche, and secondly, the toppings are placed in a different order, almost exactly the other way around. The dough is yellowish because it’s made of corn flour and is more like a mixture of puff pastry and shortbread. The cheese goes on the bottom of the pizza, tomato sauce and other toppings on top. Cut the pizza into quarters, and when you lift the pizza slice, the abundant cheese pulls oodles of strings.

Tip for pizza fans
On this food tour, you will learn all about the famous deep dish pizza and can try different varieties:
Bookyour pizza tour here*

Gino’s East has been one of Chicago’s institutions when it comes to deep dish pizza since 1966! The special thing about this location is not only the pizza, but the fact that every guest is lent a sharpie with the pizza, with which he can immortalize himself somewhere on one of the walls in this restaurant, which extends over several floors! And nothing is painted over! The probability is therefore very high that you’ll find your piece of art at the next visit!

www.ginoseast.com

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2) Lou Mitchell’s: American Diner on Route 66

There’s also real American food in Chicago! Located right at the end of the famous Route 66 (the beginning is on the parallel street, as both streets are one-way), Lou Mitchell’s is a classic American diner. The food is authentic, heavy as usual, and perhaps therefore not everyone’s cup of tea. However, what impressed me much more than the food (and that’s why I included it here in the list) is the absolutely authentic American diner atmosphere with the vintage interior. There’s really no better place to start a road trip along Route 66!

www.loumitchells.com

Planning a city break in the USA?
➜ Find out more about Chicago and many other major US cities here!

3) Chicago Hot Dogs at the Navy Pier

As with the pizza, I didn’t know that there was a Chicago-style hot dog, which is available on every corner in Chicago and is much more popular than the traditional versions with fried onions or sauerkraut.

The beer garden at Navy Pier has a particularly tasty hot dog! You get a fantastic view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline for free. By the way, the Chicago hot dog has all kinds of fresh stuff on it: diced white onions, lots of tomato chunks, pickles, mustard and pickled vegetables. The bun is sprinkled with poppy seeds, the sausage is made of beef only. Colorful and delicious! Plus, ketchup is an absolute no-go on the Chicago-style hot dog!

Beer garden on the Navy Pier

4) Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House

Yes, I really did it: I ate frog legs. And what can I say? They taste like chicken! Of course! 🙂 Hugo’s Frog Bar is the Chicago institution for frog legs, the French influence has left its mark in Chicago. Hugo’s is a bit more high-priced, but also unbeatable when it comes to quality. I love to eat fish anyway, seafood like crabs and mussels rather less, but at Hugo’s I even ate king crabs with pleasure.

Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House, by the way, is owned by the best steakhouse in town, Gibson’s (right next door), and also serves the best Black Angus beef if you’re not into seafood. My filet was divine! The ambience is also classic American. Large bar, lots of dark wood, tables with checkered tablecloths and attentive service. Be careful with the desserts: One serving is easily enough for five – or you can take the rest in the doggy bag and still invite guests for coffee the next day.

www.hugosfrogbar.com

5) The Allis: Afternoon Tea at the Soho House

A Soho House is always a guarantee of a nice cafe as well. In Chicago, you’ll find The Allis on the first floor of Soho House, nice for coffee, breakfast or afternoon tea. The decor is something between an English library and an American clubhouse, cozy but zero dusty. Drink coffee and be amazed.

www.theallis.com

6) Dove’s Luncheonette: Chicago Blues & Soul from the 70s

Another diner. This time, however, a successful symbiosis of retro look and modern Tex-Mex cuisine. The interior with wood paneling and jukebox immediately transport you to the 70s. In addition, the cuisine is modern: No overloaded plates, as you might be used to from Mexican cuisine in the USA, lots of fresh ingredients and unusual combinations.

Dove’s Luncheonette is located in Wicker Park just below the Damen CTA station. By the way, there are lots of exciting places to eat in the area, and right around the corner is Milwaukee Avenue, a really nice shopping street where you can find smaller boutiques, but also bigger stores like Urban Outfitters. Perfect if you don’t feel like shopping malls or the hustle and bustle around Michigan Avenue downtown.

www.doveschicago.com

In which area are the best locations?

Chicago has much more to offer, of course, but I think this is a nice sampling that represents well the range of possibilities. Discovering on your own is also fun – here are a few more areas where you can find great places to eat:
- West Loop: a former industrial area, around Fulton Market and along Randolph Street you will find a lot of great places to eat and drink, also a nice nightlife area. Once a year, the “Taste of Randolph” food festival takes place with lots of music and food from the surrounding restaurants.
- Wicker Park: around the Damen station, along Milwaukee Avenue and Division Street.
- around Logan Square
- and of course Downtown
More articles about Chicago and Illinois at a glance:

The best sights in Chicago
From Chicago along Route 66 through Illinois
Springfield: Illinois’ important capital
Budget tip: How to save money in expensive Chicago!

I was invited on the trip to Chicago and Illinois by Enjoy Illinois.
06/07/2018
Best Things to Do in Chicago in Summer

Want to go to Chicago this summer? City breaks in the US actually go all year round, but here in this article I’ve put together a few summer ideas for you specifically! And don’t worry, Chicago is really exciting in the summer too!

Tips:
➜ The 20 Best Attractions in Chicago
➜ My Food Guide to Chicago
➜ Architecture in Chicago
➜ Affordable Accommodations in Chicago

When I said goodbye to Chicago for the last time, I actually became very sentimental: only 24 hours had been enough to let this city fascinate me. Maybe also because I ended up there without great expectations.

Chicago: The insider’s tip among major American cities

Who already has Chicago on their radar as a cool city? During this time, when I exceptionally flew long haul instead of short haul, I was often in the USA. That never really gladly: the flights were anyway strenuous, the rest time short and if one already stands as actual Berlin long sleepers unusually already at four o’clock in the morning jetlagbedingt vertically in the hotel bed, then the following half free day takes already no good beginning.

And in general, there wasn’t much that attracted me to the destinations in the USA: Sure – it was great to get to know Boston, Washington or Denver, not to mention New York (which I already knew, but you can never get enough of New York) and Miami. But New York is New York, and Miami – well, with my South American roots, that was more like a visit home than the great America.

You can find all reports on Chicago and the surrounding area here

Only Chicago had grabbed me by the end of my long-distance visit, and somehow quite unexpectedly. Chicago was never on my personal must-see map – but then it turned out to be such a great city that I didn’t want to leave: Great architecture, a skyline and big city flair almost like New York, great museums, huge shopping temples and yet a friendly, almost warm atmosphere everywhere you go. The grumpy Berliner in me was irritated and thrilled at the same time. As expected, it was hard to say goodbye. I would have liked to stay 1-2 days longer, but no one asks me when I’m on duty. The pick-up is waiting, go, go, off to the airport, back to Germany. And I knew: This was definitely not the last time I was here. As luck would have it, I ended up back in Chicago almost a year later – and this time I didn’t have to go back after 24 hours. One thing in advance: My enthusiasm for the city has not changed.

Chicago as a summer destination: city trip to the USA

Chicago can get freezing cold and more than uncomfortable in the winter – summer is all the more beautiful for it. Basically, you have to be prepared for all kinds of weather in Chicago. Within a few days, the weather changed from windy and rainy to the worst heat wave with an official weather warning. But the constant extreme weather changes didn’t seem to rob anyone of their good mood, and more than once I heard the standard general saying about the weather:

If you wish for different weather in Chicago, just switch sides of the street!

And that’s how everyone enjoys summer in Chicago: with free concerts and events everywhere, street festivals, beach life (yes, there are little stretches of beach on Lake Michigan almost in the middle of the city, too) or just barbecuing in the front yard.

What is there to do in Chicago in the summer? Some tips.

The list of sights and “things to do” in Chicago is long. Especially in the summer, there are many more outdoor options, so these are just a few suggestions for making the most of your stay in Chicago.

Millenium Park – Concerts for free and a photo in front of “The Bean

The Bean is actually called Cloud Gate and is a sculpture by Sir Anish Kapoor. The Bean quickly became the city’s landmark after its completion in 2006, and today crowds of tourists scramble in front of it every day to get the best photo together with The Bean. Me too, of course, because The Bean impressed me last time I was in Chicago. The reflections of people, skyline and sky on the brightly polished surface are simply fascinating.

Next door, at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an open-air venue, and the adjacent parks, there are free(!) concerts and music festivals throughout the summer, from jazz to house to reggae, plus all sorts of events like morning yoga or urban gardening projects. It’s worth taking a look at Millennium Park’s annual summer program!

Street parties without end: Get out into the neighborhoods of Chicago!

It’s not just the middle of the city that’s celebrating summer; outdoor events are always happening in Chicago’s individual neighborhoods and wards. Chicago is truly a melting pot of many different cultures and each one celebrates itself with its own event, or so one gets the impression. What I found remarkable was that many immigrant families in Chicago have lived in Chicago for several generations and still maintain their own culture – without isolating themselves. They’re all Chicagoans at heart, too – and you can feel that commonality. The atmosphere in Chicago is also truly unique in terms of multicultural coexistence.

In Humboldt Park, for example, the Puerto Rican Festival took place – parades, car parades, a park full of fairground booths and salsa and reggaeton on every corner. Inviting and open to all.

Or there are food festivals like theTaste of Randolph in West Loop. This district used to be an industrial area with warehouses and factories, but in recent years it has mutated into an absolute food mecca (Chicagoans love good food so much) and hipster district.

Around Fulton Market and along Randolph Street, there are the most amazing restaurants and bars; so many that you would definitely need a few weeks to try your way through them. The Taste of Randolph is therefore the best opportunity. All of these restaurants have a food stand and offer their best dishes for a small price. In addition, there are stages with really good music – and once again: an absolutely inviting and relaxed atmosphere. They’re just hearty, these Chicagoans.

With the Segway through the parks of Chicago

When you see all the skyline photos of Chicago, it seems incredible that there are large green spaces in the middle of this city. But just as with Central Park in New York, Chicago has made a point of maintaining large parks in the middle of the city, such as Grant Park, which houses Millennium Park, or Lincoln Park with its free (!) zoo.

I explored Grant Park and the following green areas along the shore of Lake Michigan by Segway – which in retrospect was really a good idea despite the high temperatures. On the one hand, the airstream cools a bit, and on the other hand, the whole facility is so huge that it would take a long time to walk around. In addition, the entire route is relatively flat and well paved. Segway riding is learned within minutes and is a lot of fun!

Book the Segway tour along Lake Michigan*

Chicago from above – the two best options

A city like Chicago is best viewed from above – there are two special spots for this: the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower and once the tallest building in the world) or the 360 Chicago Observation Deck on the John Hancock Tower in the middle of Michigan Avenue, the main shopping street on the Magnificent Mile. Both offer great views of all of Chicago and Lake Michigan when the weather is good – and both locations have an extra gimmick! On the Willis Tower skydeck, there are four fully glazed exits, and in 360 Chicago, you can recline on angled panoramic windows that tilt forward.

Coming early is worth it, the view is better and you save long queues, especially in summer. The sunset from one of the viewing platforms is also worth seeing. Unfortunately, the entrance fee is quite steep, but with a Chicago City Pass you can save money. The best thing you can do is just compare: Is the Chicago City Pass worth it? (Experience & Prices)

Want to read more about Chicago? Find out more here:

The 606 – outdoor secret in Wicker Park

The neighborhoods in Chicago are definitely worth exploring. Areas like Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square or Boystown all have their own charm and you can easily spend a whole day exploring individual neighborhoods. Wicker Park, for example, has lots of great cafés and restaurants where you can sit outside in summer temperatures (which is always very convenient for me as an air conditioning avoider!) And small, fine stores. And in between street art. The perfect environment for a chill day in Chicago!

If you’re still in the mood for the outdoors after the downtown parks, check out the 606 Trail in Wicker Park – a relatively well-hidden old elevated train track that’s been converted into a recreation area similar to the Highline in New York. The entrances are hard to find right away and tourists are less attracted to it, but once you’re up there, you get to see Chicago’s residential areas from a different perspective. Nice contrast to the busy center! How to get there: 606 Trail website.

By boat, bus and train through Chicago

Because it was so nice last time, and to remember this great day again, I took a boat trip again this time. The possibility to almost drive through the skyscrapers is unique.

The architecture boat tour* is really very good and stands out very much from usual tourist tours. The guides really have a broad knowledge of architecture – and I would never have guessed before my first visit that Chicago was so interesting architecturally! For those who are not so interested in architecture after all, I recommend at least a classic boat tour through Chicago to see Chicago from Lake Michigan at least once – the view of the skyline from the water is unique.

To get around the city, you can simply take one of the water cabs. They’re smaller, usually never crowded, and with a day pass for just $10, you can explore the city like a hop-on hop-off bus! In fact, the Water Taxis stop at all major points along the Chicago River. Coupled with a CTA day pass, also only $10, which allows you to use all public buses, subways and elevated trains (including the one that goes all around the center, The Loop, and has great views!), it’s the perfect combination.

➜ Book the architecture boat tour on the Chicago River here*

➜ Book the classic boat tour through Chicago and onto Lake Michigan*

Chicago accommodations

A hotel or a place to stay is no problem in a city like Chicago – just unfortunately very expensive. But what is also really worth it with this fantastic city.

Here are a few self-tested hotel suggestions:

Low-budget with authentic charm: Freehand Chicago, right in the heart of the city and featuring a sensational bar open to everyone, not just hotel guests
A massive hotel classic with an impressive ballroom serving as the lobby: Hilton Chicago on Michigan Avenue
Right on the Magnificent Mile: the Warwick Allerton Chicago combines big-city flair with classic luxury

I was invited on the trip to Chicago and Illinois by Enjoy Illinois. Of course, my opinion remains unaffected – I was already enthusiastic about Chicago before anyway 🙂

02/07/2018
Chicago: boat ride, architecture and the best view of the Chicago skyline

Chicago’s architecture is simply remarkable: a wild mix of diverse modernist styles can be found here. Even people who aren’t interested in architecture will quickly notice this. The best way to see these artistic skyscrapers is from a boat: I’ll let you in on which boat tour you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Chicago!

Boat Tour in Chicago: A Quick Tour of the Architecture

Regular water taxis run on the Chicago River, which flows right through the heart of the city—but there are also boat tours offered by various companies that let you take your time exploring Chicago from the water. The Chicago Architecture Boat Tour is especially recommended; on this tour, you’ll also get plenty of interesting information about Chicago’s architecture from local experts!

I’ve pretty much perfected my talent for speed sightseeing, but spending half a day in Chicago while jet-lagged was a real challenge. I do like to explore cities on foot or by bike (when possible). During layovers after long-haul flights, I’ve found myself increasingly craving the luxury of just being driven around—so I often ended up on some red hop-on-hop-off tourist buses. But in Chicago, a colleague recommended the architecture boat tour—and that sounded very relaxing, too.

Chicago: Architecture in the Second City

I didn’t know much about Chicago itself. But the fact that Chicago is so underrated is probably nothing new. That’s also reflected in Chicago’s nickname: “The Second City.” Second, because it’s always in New York’s shadow. In a way, Chicago and New York are cut from the same cloth: big cities, steeped in history (by American standards), and towering skyscrapers. But somehow, there’s just nothing particularly iconic that everyone in the world knows: no Empire State Building, no Statue of Liberty, no Big Apple. Or does anything about Chicago come to mind right away?

Are you planning a trip to Chicago?
Find more tips here!

And yet Chicago has so much to offer! Lake Michigan, which is actually more like an ocean than a lake. The famous pan pizza (which I didn’t try a single slice of—what a shame!). Gangster stories from the old days. Art! Art! Art! And: architecture. And the best way to see it is on a boat tour.

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Chicago’s architecture by boat

As I’ve already hinted at, long-haul travel makes you lazy when it comes to sightseeing. After all, how are you supposed to get around when you fly halfway around the world in two and a half days and spend most of that time working? I highly recommend a boat tour. In good weather, of course. Which, admittedly, can get a little difficult in Chicago – because Chicago has another nickname: The Windy City. And the wind there can really blow you away. In our case, the Chicago wind just swept away the last little clouds and rewarded us with an absolutely fantastic blue sky! No wonder my enthusiasm for Chicago was ignited immediately.

You can book the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour here*

The boat tour sounded appealing. And it didn’t disappoint. We chose the architecture boat tour through Chicago’s skyscraper canyons. I’m not sure I would have paid such close attention to the individual giant skyscrapers if I’d just been striding through the streets with a stiff neck from looking up. Many of the buildings are simply impressive—after all, Chicago was the birthplace of skyscrapers over a hundred years ago. So much for New York! Ha!

The famous Buckingham Fountain

A little anecdote to wrap things up: On the ride back to the hotel, our driver raved to us about his hometown of Chicago, and we realized just how little of the city we’d actually seen, despite having had such a great day. He enthusiastically listed all of Chicago’s attractions. None of it sounded familiar to us. Until we drove past the Buckingham Fountain—a huge freestanding fountain—and, as kids of the ’90s, we immediately started singing the theme song from “Married… with Children” —and our driver couldn’t believe that, of all the things from his Chicago, only Al Bundy had stuck in our minds here in Germany.

***

Tip:

You can book the architecture boat tour on-site or online:
Book the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour here*

03/09/2017

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