CHICAGO - ATTRACTIONS

There are literally hundreds of things to see in this city. This page lists 4 of the best things we saw.

1. Hancock Tower - What? Why not the Sears Tower? Well, it is my humble belief that the Hancock offers a better view and is more convenient, being right next to the beach. You can enjoy a great view of the lake, Navy Pier, and a fantastic night view of the skyscrapers looking south. Try to find a coupon in one of the tourist magazines; because the Sears Tower is more popular, the Hancock has to give better deals - it is worth it.

2. Chicago Historical Society - A great museum that presents a lot of detailed information on the history of this amazing city. Located away from downtown at Clark St and North Ave, you may have to take a bus to get there, but you can easily spend a couple of hours studying a wide variety of exhibits devoted to explaining how Chicago came to be. This museum also provides 2-for-1 coupons in tourist mags, so try to pick one up before heading over.

3. Field Museum - Famous as the home of the best-preserved Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton, the Field is one of the three museums in Grant Park, along with Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium. The museum is large, but other than Sue (the aforementioned Rex), most of the exhibits are not that unique. Nonetheless, if you have an interest in dinosaurs, just seeing Sue should make this a place to visit. Keep in mind that it is free on Wednesday, so you can try to plan your stay around that day. 

Sue - the skull is a replica - be sure to go upstairs to see the real thing

4. Navy Pier - Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Pier was originally designed as a shipping and recreational facility. In the 70s and 80s it fell into disuse and only recently has it been re-established as a tourist attraction. Among its many features are a Ferris Wheel, IMAX theatre, and a Children's Museum. Fireworks are also shown on selected summer nights. This is a busy place on a hot summer's day, but is great for families. Try the cornbread at Joe's Be-Bop Cafe and Jazz Emporium. 

Of course, this list is not exhaustive - get a good tourbook and go wild - Chicago is a place where it is impossible to get bored!