Vivid01

Hello All,

Impromptu trip to Chitown this weekend, I have never been so please help me out. Arriving Midway 125pm, taking Orange Line to Roosevelt and then Hilton suggests I walk to hotel (approximately 15 mins). I have no problem with the walking, I will have a small rolling suitcase and a backpack. My concern is safety and neighborhood, having never been there. Any suggestions such as cab or bus, or is walking simple and safe?

Also, any ideas about local sites easily accessible to the hotel would be appreciated (720 S Michigan, across from Grant Park).

Thanks!

TwoFatFeet

This area is totally safe to walk in.

Please offer more insight into what kind of sites interest you.

Otherwise, there's the Art Institute, the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Millennium Park, Mag Mile, etc all nearby.

TwoFatFeet

Also recommended is a river architecture cruise.

Vivid01

Thanks for your input! I am interested in art museums, interesting architecture and history...sounds like you've given me good tips.

TwoFatFeet

How long are you staying in town? Interested in food? Chicago is a great eating (and drinking) city.

The Art Institute is an absolute must, if you're interested in art.

Mincepie

We just stayed in Chicago for a couple of days last weekend. We found walking at night perfectly safe.
The Art Institute is right across the street. Don't miss the "jelly bean" sculpture or Buckingham fountains in the park. The fountains put on a special display every few hours..really spectacular. We also stayed at the Hilton and enjoyed it very much. Apart from one lady, the concierges were extremely helpful and knowledgable.
Cabs were also pretty cheap if you get tired of walking.
Chicago is probably the cleanest city I have visited in the US and the food is very,very good. We are in our 60's and 2 of the meals we had were close to or as good as any meal we have ever had. What kind of food do you like.
Definitely do not miss one of the architectural cruises..they last about 60-90 minutes and cost about $30, but well worth it.
Have fun.

TwoFatFeet

Mincepie, can I ask where you ate?

Vivid01, let us know what kind of cuisine you're interested in, as well budget for meals.

MP07950

Definitely make time for the Taste of Chicago this weekend!

Mincepie

Of course TwoFatFeet!

Greek Islands Restaurant in Greek Town.

Shaw's Crab House

Mercat a la Planxa(only 3 months old)

Salpicon

Kitty O'Shea's in the Hilton(the only bummer of the weekend, although we enjoyed the hotel very much otherwise)

nicoleevon

You'll be here during Taste of Chicago, so be prepared for big crowds in the Grant Park area! You might as well take advantage and hit the Taste - good sampling of lots of Chicago restaurants.

There is also a new high end Irish restaurant across from Millenium Park called the Gage...it can be pricey, but worth a visit

saundra

Hello,

This weekend begins the "Taste of Chicago". The free entertainment at Grant Park includes Stevie Wonder on Saturday and a host of other well known acts. You may access the entire schedule online at www.cityofchicago.org/specialevents.

Millennium Park (next to Grant)will feature free entertainment too. www.grantparkmusicfestival.com.
The lakefront, Navy Pier fireworks, the Wendella River Taxi at $4 for the day pass if you want to take a ride on the Chicago River all make for a fantastic day for next to nothing.

Enjoy our wonderful city!

Vivid01

Wow, these are all great ideas! And yes, i just found out about the Taste and am looking forward to that

I like Italian, Mexican, some chinese and then basically "American" style dishes but am willing to sample just about anything that doesn't look back at me

Budget isn't really a concern but it will just be me, so not looking to spend a fortune on meals.

Vivid01

Just another thought, does it make more sense to go up to Harrison and walk down? It seems a much nicer route.

sarge56

Vivid- If you do nothing else, take the architectural tour on the Chicago River. You will not be sorry!

Enjoy all the food at Taste! You will no doubt find everything from Polish sausage to steak tartar! My mouth is watering just thinking about it!

Have a great trip! (I can guarantee you shortly be thinking, "When can I get back to Chicago?")

dmlove

We went to Taste of the Town several years ago, and loved it. I don't remember exactly how it worked, but I think you buy tickets and use them to "purchase" food at the various vendors. That way, you can eat as much or as little as you want. Some people are put off by the fact that it probably isn't as sanitary as eating at home or in a restaurant, but that didn't stop me Wish I could join you....I LOVE Chicago!

TwoFatFeet

If you have room after the Taste of Chicago, try Frontera Grill -- really great creative Mexican food; it's Rick Bayless's restaurant. If it's just you, I'd say saddle up to the bar for a margarita too.

nicoleevon

Harrison is a slightly nicer walk, but honestly I'd say just take the most direct route, ditch your bags and then take a walk around.

If you're alone, I'd say definitely hit The Gage (Irish place I mentioned yesterday). It's just up Michigan Avenue from the Art Institute and directly across from Millennium Park. Grab a seat at the bar, have a snack and a pint or a glass of wine and enjoy the people watching.

One of my favorite lunch spots this time of the year is the Garden Restaurant in the Art Institute itself. They have a great seasonal menu and the restaurant is in an outdoor courtyard with tables set up around a fountain. It's a nice quiet oasis to take a break in.

Hope you enjoy your stay!