Depending on your perspective, Chicago is either at the beginning or the end of the iconic Route 66 and although the road was decommissioned in 1985 it is still one of the most travelled routes in the world. Chicago is however still very much alive and kicking and here is a sample of what you can get up to in 48 hours.
Date of Birth: March 4th 1837 on former Potawatomi Indian land.
Location: An area of 234 sq. miles, Chicago lies on the western shore of Lake Michigan in the state of Illinois.
Population: With 2.7m residents, it’s the third most populated city in the USA.
Nickname: Known as the ‘windy city’ probably because of its blustering politicians.
Chicago Main Attractions
The Sky Deck: At 1,353 feet, you’ll literally be standing off the third tallest building in the world in glass boxes extending out four feet from the Skydeck.
Navy Pier: Enjoy a fun day out with Chicagoans in a unique location right by Lake Michigan. Over fifty acres of waterfront with gardens, rides, restaurants, exhibitions, entertainment and shopping.
The Magnificent Mile: Chicago’s most fashionable street. This is where you will find high end shopping amongst the skyscraper lined avenue.
Grant and Millennium Parks: Chicago’s very own Central Parks. Vast open spaces to enjoy the greenery and the amazing Bean sculpture!
Robie House: Frank Lloyd Wright’s former home and one of the most famous houses in the world.
Take a bite
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria: Lou’s is something of an institution in Chicago. This family owned business now with over 30 outlets reinforces the legend that is Chicago deep pan pizza.
Chicago Diner: A classic American diner, the only difference is the comfort food is completely vegetarian! Feast on seitan burgers, wings and meatloaf.
The Park Grill: The wide expanse of Millennium Park plays host to a fine eatery. Its huge outdoor patio area converts to a skating rink in winter. The Kobe burgers are legendary.
Off the radar
The Second City: Since the 60’s, this legendary improv comedy theater has been the proving ground for many talented performers. It’s where John Belushi, Steve Carell, Bill Murray and a host of others learned their craft.
Broadway in Chicago: Your one stop shop to see the best of the Broadway shows. This production company operates five of the main theater venues in the downtown Loop district and as well as tickets you can buy behind the scenes tours too.
The Field Museum: 67 million years old and 40 feet long, Sue is the world’s best preserved T Rex. You’ll find Sue and everything from Genghis Khan to the history of chocolate in this impressive natural history museum.
One off’s
Listen: Buddy Guy’s Legends. Buddy always gets the cream of the live blues scene seven nights a week. Clapton, Van and Dr John have all graced his stage. Get in tune with Chicago’s blues roots and enjoy some Cajun food too.
Eat: Alinea Restaurant. Genius chef Grant Achatz has created a cuisine that can only be described as culinary art. An unforgettable and mouth watering journey into the unknown. Forget looking at a menu, just sit back and wonder.
See: The John Hancock Observatory. 1,000 feet above the city of Chicago, enjoy fabulous views across the four neighbouring states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin.
Chicago’s Official Snack
$8.25 will get you a large bag of Garrets Chicago Mix popcorn, Chicago’s official snack food.
