Even if you only have an hour- take a walk through Millenium Park and then South and go to the Art Institute for any length of time that you can. Focus on the Impressionists- and even if you are not art lovers, you will be glad you did it.

You could possibly do dim sum or a meal in Chinatown on Sunday before the game- right on the way to see the Sox. www.metromix.com

Where are you guys staying in Chicago?

Sounds like a fun trip. I'm sure plenty of posters will help you with downtown bars/restos, so I'll just start it off with what I'm familiar with and what I like.

Wrigleyville has a bazillion bars, so you can figure that out pretty easily on your own when you get there -- Goose Island, Cubby Bear, etc.

Other favorite bars:

Map Room (definitely my favorite, world-class beer selection)
Hop Leaf (specializes in Belgian beer)
Clark Street Ale House (good beer, good location, free pretzels!)
L&L Tavern (good dive, great place to get loaded)

What's your budget for restaurants? Any cuisine preference? Steak...Gibsons, Keefers, Wildifire...

If you have time and the desire, head to where I live, Roscoe Village, for Hot Doug's, which has the best sausages in the city, seriously. It's a little out of the way of downtown/touristville, but it's totally worth the trip, especially since you have some time Thursday and Friday. Since you'd be in the area, stop for drinks at the Village Tap and Underbar, or divey-local drinks at Mulligan's. Then you can take the Damen bus or a cab down to Wicker Park/Bucktown area for the Map Room and other stuff, or the Addison bus (or a cab) to Wrigleyville for more drinking.

Anyway, that's just for starters. I'm sure others can help, but tell us budget/desires for restaurants.

Haven't booked hotels yet. Really doesn't matter for budget or cuisine. Just looking for any suggestions at this point. once it gets closer and we have more details, we will work on getting it narrowed down. With such tight timeframes, I really want to have a schedule but will be open to changes

ttt

At the Sear's Tower you pay to go up the elevator. At Hancock you can go to the bar on the 95th floor for free. The drinks are pricey, but you can spend the money you would have spent on the Sear's Tower and take your time and relax at the bar. The views are amazing and I like it because it is so close to the lake.

There is an architecture boat tour on the river that is very good.

In Milwaukee there is this awesome bar called the Safe House. It is all a spy theme and really really fun. I highly recommend it.

I strongly suggest you book your hotel early. I'm serious, because pricing has escalated in the last 2 years for those who wait, nearly always.

If it was I and I had 4 people, I would strongly suggest quikbook choices, as they are good lock prices and refundable/cancellable as well.

You aren't going to be here long, so I would stay central downtown LOOP, River North, or North Michigan Ave. location- for the easiest access to the ballgames, especially.

Are you going to need to park a car? Do take hotel considerations etc. with that in mind. And also the huge tax added hotel fees in Chicago. 17 to 20% more. And parking is now $28 to $40 a day minimum.

You will not want to take the car to Wrigley, if you can help it. And at U.S. Cellular too- it would be cheaper to not pay the $20 parking fee- the red line goes there in a whiff from downtown.

Highly suggest you stay central and take the els to both games, if you get the Cubs tickets.

There are nearly 100 choices of good hotels downtown, so you might want to check out other threads here. Do a search on Chicago hotel 20 something or some such.

If you get the hotel before the weather turns to spring, you are going to get an immensely better price, and don't forget that the percentage added is on that price too. Some hotwire choices that you could do for 4, might not be something you would want to overlook either.

Also, Milwaukee's stadium is outside the city. So I would go to the Brewers website or somesuch and look at the logistics of hotel stay that was easier access by car than mid-town. We always have enjoyed the brewery tours in Milwaukee, and we also enjoy the free samples at the end. LOL!

I think the last time we went, it was Millers and we had kids with us, and even with the kids, they had beverages/treats for them as well, and you really got to see prepartion etc.

Will have a car, but may look into picking it up the last day in Chicago to reduce the cost. It sounds as if public transportation is reliable in Chicago? IS there a 4 day pass you can buy that allows unlimited access? As for hotels, we are just waiting until after the holidays to book - thru Orbitz, etc. Definitely will be in downtown. Thanks for the tip on Milwaukee.

The boat tour was already on our list to do. May do both Sears and Hancock but haven't decided.

Definitely will be going to Miller Br.ewery on Tuesday. We agreed to change our plan and spend more time in Mil. on Tuesday and drive part way to Minneapolis late that afternoon (I think to Menomonie) then drive the rest on Wed morning so we could see more of Milwaukee.

Oh, and if Madison, Wisconsin is on your way to Minn. (my WI geography is sketchy) that would be worth a quick stop, maybe for lunch. It is a beautiful campus on the lake with the capital dome.

Public transportation in Chicago is fabulous.

Be sure to research the various boat tours. There are different companies running them (Chicago Architectural Foundation, Wendella) and they run different tours (river only, lake, etc.) We recently took the CAF river-only tour and loved it. Chicago architecture is amazing, and it's just fun to see it from the "other side".

The tour we are looking at is http://www.chicagotours.us/tours/tourDetail.cfm?tour_id=4399.

Goes on the lake and river

I don't know anything about that one so hopefully someone else will comment. I just think it's hysterical that it's "by speedboat". Guess it will be like one of those "All of Shakespeare in 90 minutes" shows LOL!

Haven't booked anything so am definitely open to suggestions. I called there and they said that it is a slow ride past the architecture and then you go full speed down the lake.

I've seen that speedboat venue. They are bigger than you think, and dock off of Navy Pier. Just remember, that it takes time to get out through the locks into the lake. Really ask how long this is supposed to take. I say "supposed", because it does happen that the locks get backed up in summer with big everything/lines going through. If you are in a speedboat of size that I have seen, it might be very interesting as you are going to be "knocked" by ships, yachts etc. when you are packed into the lock when rising/falling.

I've been through them in small bass boats or speed boats, and I HATE it- because they look they are going to crush you. I'm normally not a chicken. On those, it will be ok, but know that is not really a architectural tour of any depth at all.

You have time. Do not skip the Art Institute, even if you not the artsy types. Also, it would be cheaper just to go to the Handcock for a drink than to any of the observatory decks.

Walk over the bridge at least once from State / Madison or Millenium Park onto to North Michigan Ave. and really look around. There are lots of historic items in the walls etc.

And you need to do a Chicago pizza at least once- so check out the threads on that here.

If you walk around the Loop at all, you will note the Chagall, Picasso etc. - and if you are going to Sears that direction- do it in a way that gets you over by LaSalle St. Station and the Board of Trade. Go in for a minute.

Also the State of IL building- if you have 10 minutes while walking. Inside is shocking to some people.

They might look the same from the outside, but inside can be an entirely different story. LOL!

In August and with your timing, I would research to see if Milwaukee is having the lakefront fest. Every weekend is usually a new ethnic group or flavored fest. You might like it. One of my kids is going to Germanfest this year, booked ahead for a Brewers game too, so it might be a duo for you also.

Have a good time.

My favorite trip in the entire world is not overseas but a car trip for baseball. I'm about 2 or 3 past the half point in seeing different stadiums. But now some of them have gotten new, and I'll have to start again.

As a silly sidenote: Wrigley Field was plowed today. They are finally changing the entire lay of the land that was so horrendous there. The head man Brosard from the White Sox is doing it.

Sounds like a great trip.

I've seen games at all of the Stadiums and you will have a great time. One suggestion I would make is that you head over to Madison after the Brewers game. Adding a minor league game is cool and the Madison Mallards do a great marketing job and attract big crowds. They have home games until mid August when the play-offs start. If you go, check out tickets in the Duck Blind. For $25 it is a ticket plus all you can eat and drink. It is always a party.

My ranking of the stadiums/games would be:

Wrigley (great rivalry)
Mallards (even more fun than Wrigley)
US Cellular (hard for a Chicago guy to not think of Comiskey when I type that)
Metrodome (brings back nothing but bad memories for a Cardinal fan)

In Chicago, do the Hancock and skip the Sears (no need to do both and the Hancock is classier). Eat at Ditka's and/or Harry Caray's for good food and sports memorabilia. Stay on the Mag Mile to be in the center of everything. Plan to walk from the river (Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower) to Oak St. beach during the day and again at night. Getting out on the water is a great idea, too. I'd recommend either Second City or Steppenwolf for a non baseball night (unless your group is more of a Hooters and/or espn zone type).

Milwaukee is all about the Brewery tour. After Chicago it will look small. Miller Park is very nice, though.

I'm currently living in Madison and would give it a big thumbs up. I can give you a lot more info on it if you decide to come here.

Someone else will have to fill you in on Minneapolis.

Kevin

This trip will bring me to 21 out of 30 current stadiums.

Will look into a comedy show for one of the nights.

Madison is a possibility.

I think Harry Carey's is a must.

If the Cubs are in town on either Thursday or Friday you'd have fun watching at one of the bars right across the street. I've always like the vibe at Murphy's Bleachers myself.

I checked and the Mallards schedule isn't out yet. If you do decide to fit Madison in, let me know.

For Chicago hotels, I'd use priceline. You can get a 4* room for about $100 typically.

Have you been to Petco yet? What did you think?

Cheers,

Kevin (less than 20 current parks)

Petco is one of my favorites. I have been to 5 games there (go to SD once a month for work - tough job!!!)

My top 5 are
1. PNC Park (Pittsburgh)
2. Petco Park
3. Safeco Field
4. ATT Park (SF)
5. Citizens Bank (Philly)

I will not compare any stadium to Fenway except for maybe Wrigley.

you really don't need to do both the sears tower and the hancock. there's nothing else to see around the sears tower, it's a business district. the skyline at 100 stories is not very different. the hancock is near good shopping and the mag mile. DEFINITELY skip the pricey elevator tour and spend the cash you saved on an overpriced drink for the same exact view.

Miller Park IS in the City of Milwaukee, although about 10 minutes west of DT.

Things to do: Milwaukee Art Museum, Public Museum, Pier Wisconsin, Public Market, Zoo, stroll the Third Ward, tour Miller Brewery.

I believe that Comedy Sportz originated in Milwaukee, and it can be a fun, if somewhat goofy, evening.

Milwaukee has lots of good theater.

A nice hotel relatively close to the stadium is the Ambassador, recently beautifully restored. I'd also recommend trying Piceline for two rooms in DT Milwaukee.

For a restaurant in Chicago I would suggest the ESPN Zone since you guys are sports fans. I hear it may be on the higher end but I am unsure. I am sure it would come up if you googled it.

I'm not a big ESPN Zone fan while on vacations. I generally try to avoid chains and prefer more local restaurants. Thanks for the advice anyways

Tchoiniere, when you're looking at hotels, think about City Suites Hotel on Belmont. It's walking distance to Wrigley, with a lot of restaurants and bars nearby and next door. Sheffield's bar is about a 3-minute walk from the hotel. It's a fun place. You'd also have easy access to public transport and ample cabs go by there.

Does anyone know of a local bar in Chicago where Red Sox fans generally go when they are in town during a Red Sox - White Sox series?

For Minneapolis--You didn't say if you are guys or gals...
Get a good recommendation for dinner on Nicollet Mall (also great bars there) or ethnic restaurants on Eat St.
Take a walk around the Lakes (there are three interconnected but miles around each which are close to downtown- I'd suggest beautiful Lake of the Isles with old mansions.
Ice Cream at Sebastian Joes off Hennepin Ave Uptown or one in Linden Hills.
If shopping-gals head to 50th and France or the Galleria Mall both in Edina. Lovely breakfast spots in Linden Hills, Mpls with cute shops.
Or head to St. Paul and hit Grand Avenue for shopping or dining.
Museums-Walker Art Center with awesome restaurant/bar.
Have fun.

Its 4 guys so shopping is of very little priority during this trip. Thanks for the other recommendations. Definitely will be looking for things to do around the lakes.

Monsignor Murphy's is one Chicago place that shows Red Sox games. I would just go to one of the bars around Wrigley, though. A lot of fun.

The area around US Cellular Field (the Cell) is not a place to behanging around if you are fan of the visiting team. You'll be much better off downtown.

My suggestion would be to find out what hotel the Red Sox stay at when they are in Chicago. This info is available from the team. Either stay at the hotel yourselves or hit the bar there while the team is in town. At least, you'll mmet up with a lot of fellow Bostonians. At best, you'll get some times with players or other team personnel.

You might even hit a proverbial home run if the Red Sox and Cardinals both stay at the same hotel in Chicago.

Enjoy,

Kevin

Tchoiniere, unless you really want to follow the team around to their hotel as ChiDad suggests, you should google "Chicago bar where to watch Red Sox games" or something like that. Chicago has a lot of expat-sports-fan bars on the North Side. Surely there's more than one Red Sox Nation bar in Chicago.

I'm an idiot. never even thought of googling it. The bars it came back with from http://www.redsoxconnection.com/fans/hangouts.html
are
1. Brendan's Pub
2. Monsignor Murphys (Previously mentioned)
3. Nic and Dino's Tripoli Tavern
4. Mother Hubbard's

Any feedback on these?

http://www.sonsofsamhorn.net/wiki/index.php/Sox_Bars#Chicago

I've never been to any of these but I knew of Monsignor Murphy's, but they sound like decent bars to watch a game.

In my opinion, Southport avenue is the best place to hit up before or after a game at Wrigley. . .I think more of the chicago locals hang here (more of the out of towners and suburbans hang closer to the field). . .SCHUBAS has the best food ever. . Southport and Belmont.

Also, Miller beer is brewed pretty close to the stadium. . I'm pretty sure they offer tours. . .I consulted there and went on the tour. . it was AWESOME

Miller has free tours a couple of times a day. I bet they have a web site. There are free samples at the end of the tour.
Of course if you call ahead you can also tour Sprecker Brewery.
If you're here in summer, spend time at the lakefront after the game. There're a really nice restaurant on the river, near the lake called Riptide. It's in the Third Ward ( a very cool part of the city) and you can walk along the river to the lake from there. You actually end up on the Summerfest grounds.
It's a weekday, so you don't have to worry about a festival.
I'd then drive south into Bay View. It's a funky but safe part of town. Stop in at Cafe Lulu and have a drink or homeade pie.
If you're lucky and can find it, there's a place called Barnacle Buds along the river on the south end. It's a bit of Key West in Milwwaukee. Buckets of beer and people pull up in their boats to eat (as they do at Riptide.)
Or you could do the Riverwalk downtown. That'd be and afternoon.

Miller Tour is definitely a must. We are going to do it on Tuesday before leaving Milwaukee. Nothing like a brewery tour then having a 6 hour drive. Probably just going to drive 3/4 to Minneapolis then drive the rest in the early AM the next day before the Twins game.

The Miller website is www.millerbrewing.com. In the summer, one hour tours are given from 10:30-4:30.

On a Monday you should make it in about 5.5 hours. Just don't get stuck in rush hour traffic leaving the city and you'll be good to go. That means be on the road by 3:30 at the latest.
Milwaukee has two rush hours that meld together - factories get out at 3:30 and businesses get out at either 4:30 or 5:00PM.
Our son goes to U of M and I am very familiar with the drive. We make it in 6 hours with a stop in Black River Falls to have a sit down lunch and gas up.

Is the waterfall in Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis worth seeing?

We went to see that waterfall with our children about 20 years ago, so it may be very different now. We still laugh about the little trickle of water that was called a waterfall.

I wouldn't worry about rush hour here in Milwaukee. A trip to or from work that takes me 30 minutes during rush hour would take me about 20 minutes in off-peak times.

abram - where are you driving to/from? Because getting to my sister's takes 20 minutes on weekends, 45-55 minutes during rush hour.

I live in Fox Point; I work DT.
Where are you coming from and where does your sister live?

Is there a pre-paid pass that you can buy ahead of time for the subways, buses around Chicago? Looking to cut costs and not get the car until Monday.

Check out the cta website. You do know that there are lots of problems with its funding, so I would wait until you got here, it is easy to buy the different levels once you arrive.

I would never do it now, because everything is in flux. They may cut back, they may drop lots of routes, and for sure the fares and scales will all be different by then, and you aren't going to like it if what you bought is no longer valid or a good value.

They are going to pay for it with casinos or casino.

I would wait until at least summer and then check out the web site for the options. CTA - Chicago Transit Authority or MTA - Metropolitan Transit Authority.

How long of a drive is it from Chicago to Milwaukee on a Monday morning, leaving around 8 am? Since I havent booked a hotel, assume from downtown.

Mapquest says 1 hour and 40 for Chicago to Milwaukee, so considering traffic, say 3 hours. It's probably not cheaper for the four of you to take the Amtrak, but just know that weekday morning traffic in Chicago is a g'damn nightmare.

If you're trying to maximize on time, you might be better off taking the amtrack from Chicago to Milwaukee. Just a thought

Let's see, when I used to work in Lake Forest (not even halfway to Milwaukee). . driving from the city would take 1 hour 30 minutes leaving at 8 am on a Monday morning. . this was before the Edens construction work too. I'd say, estimate 2.5-3 hours for that drive. . and TONS of patience.

I agree that amtrak may save time and patience but the 4 of us are used to rush hours. I just threw out the idea of leaving 9 pm Sunday night and driving half way that night and staying at a Motel 6 (Take a chance that it will be clean enough but its only for a few hours). That would save $ and hopefully get us ahead of rush hour.

If you're willing to leave late Saturday, why not drive all the way to Milwaukee that night (as long as you know where you're staying). That way, when you get up in the morning, you're not in any rush, you have added time in Milwaukee, etc. (We drove to and from Chicago-Milwaukee in one day for a game at County Stadium a few years ago; we'll have to go back another time to see the new stadium and to see Milwaukee itself).

That is definitely an option. Really is going to depend on when we select hotels and what we decide our budget is for hotels.

I agree with others that Hancock Tower is better choice than Sears. Lovely view of mag. mile and lake shoreline, particularly if you can get there at sunset.

I live in Greenfield, my sister in Brown Deer.

I'd leave Sunday night. It takes us 1 hour and 15 minutes door to door to our sons house in Evanston. O'Hare takes about 1.5 hours when traffic is light. Avoid Chicago rush hour, that's the best plan.

is it worth the time to go to the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago?

It's a nice outdoor zoo. We went last summer and it's a nice place to wander and see the animals. I don't think it's the best but it is free to visit, which is great and it's in a lovely setting. Hope this helps.

When staying in Milwaukee, instead of staying near the Stadium which will be dead after game, get a downtown hotel like Intercontinental (bars along Water Street are active all night and walking distance) or Metro Hotel or Pfister which would put you near Milwaukee & Jefferson Streets -- both hot bar hopping and dining areas. If you pick an area, let me know and I can provide dining/drinking suggestions but in either vicinity you will have no problem with nightlife.

It is not too early to book hotels in Chicago for August.

That weekend is typically when the North Halstad Market Days are held. It is a huge gay/lesbian/transgender festival held about 4 blocks east of Wrigley field. If that is the case, and you are not into that scene, you will not want to stay in the Wrigley neighborhood, nor will there any hotel rooms.

You might want to check at metromix.com for live music, theatre and comedy events. Check out the Double Door, Metro, Vic Theatre and Riviera for live music.

If you are unable to buy tickets directly from the Cubs and Sox websites, try www.stubhub.com. I have gotten tickets there for a cub game and it was pretty convenient to the ball park.

If at all possible, check out Hot Doug's 3324 N. California. You can take the Addison Bus to California and walk one block south to the restaurant. It's BYOB so bring a 6 pack and be sure to offer one to Doug behind the cash register. They take cash, man, only cash. And remember there are no 2 finer words in the English Language than "encased meats," my friend. Check out their menu at hotdougs.com, and don't forget to order the french fries cooked in duck fat. Oooh, my mouth is watering!

Have fun! Go (White)Sox!

I have a few more questions

1. How is the Museum of Natural History in Chicago?

2. Is there any public transportation in Milwaukee? How reliable?

3. Any more feedback on our plans. Hopefully more towards Minneapolis. I think our days in Chicago are going to be quite full...

#1
That's the Field Museum, and easy access, located in a group with the Shedd and Adler Planetarium.

It's my favorite, and I also find it- in last 10 years, rather expensive. But there is a free day. There is one admittance fee, and several events or exhibits have their own fees as well or you'll need to buy time frame tickets on occasion, as well.

Some of the most popular displays are re Sue (T.Rex) skeleton and dinosaur etc. But I have always loved the Egyptians and all the textile and early hominid halls, and some of the metal works and most of the oldest antiquities better.

If you have any depth or academic interest within the studies of past cultures or time frames of the Earth conditions, or of its inhabitants (mostly animal- and of all different varities- you will see the Art Institute students all around in odd halls or marbled corners- spread out on the floors- sketching them)- you will love this museum.

It's isn't as interactive as the Science & Industry- and kids like both, but love that one more for the coal mine, sub, farm and all kinds of other interactive or gadget stuff (like probability models, or talking walls etc.)

You'll have a lot to do for the time you are here. A much faster downtown venue is the Historical Society- if you have an interest in Chicago History. It would take much less time. But then again, if you haven't experienced Chicago in the past (Riverview, old downtown, etc.)- that one may be too technical or detailed for a short visit.

I would do the Art Institute and the Shedd on a first visit.

tchoiniere, you have basically 3.5 days in Chicago.

Here is what I'd do in that length of time with your schedule:

1. Take the Chicago Architecture Foundation's River Cruise, if you can, when you get in Thursday afternoon. IMHO, best 2.5 hours you could spend.

2. Walk to Millennium Park after the cruise (3 blocks south on Michigan Avenue).

3. Go to the Art Institute in the evening. I'm not sure if they will have the free Thursday evenings again this summer from 5-9 p.m. (Currently, it is free only 5-8 p.m., summer hours not yet posted.)

4. Go to the John Hancock Center for drinks in the Signature Lounge.

5. If you feel up to it, go to a jazz club (such as The Green Mill - take the Red Line to the Lawrence stop) or a blues club (Buddy Guys Legends) or to a comedy club (Second City, Zanies, etc.)

Friday:

1. Chicago is a very bike- friendly city. We have all of this FLAT land you see. Suggest that you take a bike hike in the morning - either one in a guided group (such as Bobby's Bike Hike) or hike it alone.

2. If it's too terribly hot and humid in the afternoon, you could always go to the nice, air-conditioned museum of your choice then.

3. Take in a free concert by the Grant Park Symphony at Millennium Park at night. Maybe take a picnic dinner. There's a new location of a great place now opened in the Loop called "Pastoral: Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine" that has some mighty fine offerings. Take a look at their website.

4. Afterwards, maybe you'd all like to wander down to the Summerdance festival in Grant Park at the Spirit of Music Garden - and/or go over to Buckingham Fountain to see the night light show (on the hour every hour - BF is open until 11 p.m.)

Saturday:

1. Go to the Lincoln Park Zoo in the early morning for a couple of hours. You can then take a quick cab ride (about 1 mile) to

2. Wrigley Field for your game. Have a brat and brew at Murphy's Bleachers before the game.

3. As the previous poster indicated, there are tons of bars around Wrigley Field if you want to indulge afterwards.

Perhaps I missed where you indicated the dates of your stay in this thread. As a previous poster indicated, the Northalsted Market Days festival is in this area and runs the 2nd weekend of August. However, I would say this festival has more of a mixed crowd now and it has been that way for a number of years. They usually have excellent entertainment on their main stages, though, and Saturday is definitely the preferred day to go. IMHO, one of the best festivals in Chicago. Definitely, lots of fun.

But, if you wanted to forego this (or you are coming at a different weekend) and didn't get to the Green Mill, you can pick up the Red Line at the Addison station (right across the street from Wrigley Field) and take it to Lawrence.

Sunday:

1. Do you want breakfast with that ballgame? Try Yolk (on S. Michigan Avenue) or Orange on Harrison for brunch.

2. Sox vs. Sox.

3. After the ballgame and all of your escapades in Chicago, what is really nice to do on a Sunday evening is to 1) walk along the lakefront or 2) take a nice stroll in Lincoln Park.

Have fun in whatever you decide to do!

Minneapolis: Downtown - check out Nicollet Ave. Lots of great restaurants with outdoor seating. No traffic on Nic. Ave downtown, so not much exhaust to breathe. Try to get to Brits Pub on 10th & Nicollet. It has a rooftop patio, English lawn bowling, great beer and Scotch eggs!

Of course, stop in at Hubert's right across from the Metrodome.

Across the river from downtown is St. Anthony Main. Use 3rd St to get across and enjoy more restaurants like Tryg's (burgers)or Stella's (great seafood). It also overlooks St. Anthony Falls.

Farther down Nic. Ave to 26th St is Eat Street. Lots of restaurants with ethinic food - Chinese, Asian fusion, German, Mexican, etc.

Uptown (Near Lake & Hennepin) has some smaller restaurants and a few chains. Check out Chino Latino for the crowd and the food/drinks.

Minnehaha Park & Falls is fun to see. There is a nice 2 mile round trip hike from the falls to the Mississippi River. Depending on how dry the summer has been will affect the waterfall. It's amazing to think that those falls started out up by where the Twins play!

Museums include the Mill City Museum - in an old flour mill/elevator with a great view of the river/falls/downtown, Walker Art Museum & Sculpture Garden (home of the Spoon Bridge and Cherry that is always shown), Art Institute of Mpls (free)& Hennepin History Museum.

In St.Paul, there is the Science Museum, the Capitol, and make sure you check the schedule for the St. Paul Saints! They play outdoors near a train yard and is the most fun I've had a ball game yet! http://www.saintsbaseball.com

Thanks for the advice. Its amazing how much our schedule has changed since I first posted this. Mostly due to the Cubs and White Sox finally posting game times, we are now going to the White Sox game on Friday night and the Cubs game on Sat afternoon. But you have provided more great advice that we can build on.

Shouldercat3, thanks for the info for Minneapolis. That will help a lot.

Milwaukee has a reliable bus system. www.ridemcts.com/

How worth visiting is the Minneapolis Zoo? How much time does it generally take to walk around?

Is it worth going to both the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago and the Minn. Zoo? By looking at the 2 websites, they definitely seem enough different to go to both, especially considering the Minn. Zoo has dolphins, etc.

I realize that each zoo is not the quality of the SD Zoo but they seem worthwhile going to.

I don't know if you've already gotten the tickets, but frankly, I'd rather be going to U.S. Cellular Field for a day game than a night game. That neighborhood isn't like Wrigleyville.

We haven't gotten tickets yet as they are not for sale. However, I am hesitant to change it due to having 2 day games really eats into the amount of free time during the day that we will have. Is it bad getting from the stadium to the subway station? We are not planning on hanging around there after the game.

Yes, I knew that the Cubs single tickets hadn't yet gone on sale, but didn't know if you had an "arrangement" with a season ticket holder.

Re your inquiry: No, as long as you stay with the crowds after the game, you'll be OK. I wouldn't be a straggler, though.

However, if you go for a night game at the Cell, that's all you might/probably be able to do for that evening (unless you're willing to be up into the wee hours). By the time you get out of there and back downtown, it will be late.

Whereas, if you go to two day games, you'd be able to go to music or comedy clubs, dancing, theatre, etc. in the evening.

Your choice really...but I thought your first itinerary was fine. I guess it just depends which you feel would be more important to experience in Chicago.

Exiled, that is definitely one good about planning ahead. It gives me flexibility in changing things. Just looked at the website for Buddy Guys Legends and it definitely is on my list for 1 of the nights. If we stick on our revised schedule, would do it Sunday night.

Our thinking of doing a night game is to give more time during the day to see things but it does cut down on the nightlife for sure. Can always hope the Red Sox beat the White Sox in a quick game and then head out afterwards!!!

Did I read that there is no smoking anywhere in Chicago? If so, that is great news for me.

Yup, bars and whatnot are smoke-free in Illinois.

A lot of bars are open pretty late in Chicago, so you'd probably have time to have some drinks after the Sox game -- if that's what you're looking to do.

Tchoiniere-I may be biased, but I really enjoy the MN Zoo. (I'm a member...) The new Grizzly Coast exhibit is slated to open this summer - sounds impressive. I would plan a couple of hours to enjoy the zoo. A bit more if you are going to catch the dolphin show or the wild bird show(in the outdoor amphitheater). There is also a monorail and farm exhibit.

Another option is the Como Zoo in St. Paul. Free and it has giraffes, orangutans, seals and zebras. Takes less time because it is much smaller. Beware the last 10 days before Labor day - MN State Fair is in swing!

Looking at the website for the Minn. Zoo, there are a lot of animals there not normally seen at zoos. Definitely looks like a must see for Minn. I am pretty sure we will be going to both zoos

What are the smoking laws in Milwaukee and Minneapolis?

No indoor smoking in Mpls, some hotel rooms exempt. No smoking within 25 of public entrance.

25 feet, I meant.

In terms of the Zoos...I really think the MN Zoo cannot hold a candle to the Lincoln Park Zoo. It really does not have that much animal-wise...certainly nothing the LP doesn't have. Also, it costs money and LP is free.

My $.02

taitai

Milwaukee also has a really nice zoo.

Good luck getting the Cubs tix for the exact date you want!

I realize it will be tough to get the date but if we don't get them thru the Cubs site, we will use Stub Hub. It is the biggest concern I have especially since it is the Cardinals - Cubs but I am used to struggling to get tickets, being a Red Sox fan.

In response to what Exiledprincess said,("I don't know if you've already gotten the tickets, but frankly, I'd rather be going to U.S. Cellular Field for a day game than a night game. That neighborhood isn't like Wrigleyville."), yeah, the neighborhood isn't like Wville, but a couple of guys aren't gonna get into any more trouble on 35th as long as they are smart and sober. The Red Line is just down the street, cabs are plenty, and the cops are everywhere. And the Friday night fireworks follow the game.

As for missing out on evening entertainment, Chicago has lots of 4am and 5am bars.

That is what I expected it to be.

Any idea on when Cubs and White Sox tickets go on sale? What about Brewers and Twins?

Single game tickets usually go on sale middle to late February. When do Bosox single game tickets go on sale? Right now, it's only season ticket sales.

Some single game tickets for the Red Sox are already on sale (and sold out). Mostly April and September games. The rest will go on sale around March 1.

Cheapboxofwine gave you good suggestions for Mpls which I agree with although you guys sound younger and may want more of a bar scene (which there is plenty downtown). Bar scene is going to be downtown along Hennepin/1st Ave and the "warehouse" district- all walkable from downtown hotels.

On Nicollet Ave, Brit's Pub is fun for beers and traditional British food- has great roof top deck and lawn bowling. Avoid "Block E" downtown which has been a commercial bust unless you think of Hooter's as fine dining! Palomino on Hennepin Ave is good for nice, higher end dinner. Also have had a very, very good lunch and dinner at Harry's which is near the stadium along the riverfront area (on Washington?) which has seen a nice growth/development (Go into the brand new Gutherie Theater-- has an open to the public observation deck with great views of the Mississippi). Try the new light rail transit which should get you from Downtown hotels to Metrodome...

There are 3 lakes within short drive (10 min) from downtown- Lake Harriet/Calhoun/Isles. These are fun to jog, bike or rollerblade in the summer. Grab some lunch at Tin Fish and sit outside at Lake Calhoun. "Uptown" area is also nearby the Lakes with funky stores and good people watching and active bar scene at night. Chino Latino is my favorite Uptown resterant- I take all my out of town friends there and have never had a bad meal. Mix of cooking from all over the world- lots of hot spicy food. 1st week of August is Uptown Art Fair which is huge and fun- even if you aren't buying art. *Might want to check to make sure the Republican Nat'l Convention isn't here that week- what a nightmare for traffic and eating out....

There is a local magazine called Mpls-St.Paul Magazine that has very reliable resterant/bar reviews and will also tell you what's happening around town.

Thanks for telling me about the Convention. Thankfully, its not until September 1 so we will be long gone by the time the crowds get there. Brit's Pub definitely looks like a must.

I don't know your interest in music, but for MPLS check the City Pages. Here is the link to the MPLS rock atlas
http://blogs.citypages.com/blotter/CP_RockAtlas.jpg

t- I'm a zoo snob. I've been to dozens and dozens. And I am a native Chicagoan. The Lincoln Park zoo is small but decent, so very nice for a short visit.

No other zoo I've seen (including the "famed" San Diego zoo) even comes close to the Milwaukee County Zoo. It has the most amazing aviary, an incredible ape house, etc. If you like zoos, then don't miss this one! (I'd take it over the Chicago zoos any day. I have never been to the MN zoo.) You can see from the website how huge it is. Wear your walking shoes!

http://www.milwaukeezoo.org/zoo_map.html

Just my humble opinion.

Go CUBBIES!!!

Paula

ORDgirl, just to be clear here, are you telling the OP that there is less - or the same amount of - crime (especially violent crime) down by the Cell as by Wrigley Field (in Lakeview)?

Of course, the neighborhoods are entirely different. Wrigleyville is prime bar and restaurant area. U.S. Cellular Field has some of that just North of it. And you can also go to Chinatown, hop on red line and duo that quite easily. But the neighborhood is surrounded mostly by IIT, the el and different public housing.

But it is changing and it is NOT as crime ridden as many other areas that are frequently visited by Chicago tourists. I would name 2 or 3 but I would get flamed. And for no reason. It is a primarily Black and also econonomically depressed area that fans out East and S southwhat from U.S. Cellular.

Ironically, there were murders and homicides quite clearly detailed from and between fans leaving Wrigley and not a one after a U.S. Cellular game, despite their neighborhoods. It's mainly road rage related- both times.

That's the truth. I wouldn't be at all averse to going to Jimbo's or anywhere else near U.S. Cellular. I have and I do, plus we park under el tracks and all kinds of places that make it more dicey, than you would experience walking from the el anywhere. On game days, you may even have musicians around at the Cell, on the way. "Flintstones" intro is big for some reason, besides all that jazz. LOL!

You can also head straight for the huge Mall of America (MOA).
Even if you're avowed non-shoppers you can end up spending hours roaming the Mall, enjoying cups of cappuccino from one the several Starbucks locations, and enjoy the massive indoor amusement park.

The Mall of America is the largest fully enclosed retail and entertainment destination in America. It has more than 520 stores, 20 sit-down restaurants, 30 fast food restaurants, 14 movie screens, and 12,500 parking spaces. 32 Boeing 747s could fit inside the Mall.

Saw on the Q&A from the Cubs site today that their tickets go on sale Feb 22.

Milwaukee Zoo does look a good zoo. May try to fit it in on Tuesday morning. Really is going to depend on what else we decide to do in Milwaukee and what time we feel we should leave before driving to Minneapolis. 3 zoos in a week seems like it would be way too much too.

How reasonable does it sound to do the Milwaukee Zoo in the morning (be there when it opens) then go to the Miller Brewery for the tour, hoping to be on the road towards Minn. around 4 pm. I realize that 1 drawback is that it is rush hour leaving there. How bad is traffic in that direction?

Twins tickets go on sale this Friday.

JJ5, violent crime includes more than just murder and manslaughter. Violent crime also includes (at least) forcible rape, robbery and aggravated assault.

Fortunately, there are several websites where you obtain crime statistics - some even as recent as 7 days ago - from different organizations. On many of those websites you can narrow the results down by district, zip code, even by the address and/or immediate area - or even by the type of offense. So you can always do a search to see exactly what crimes are being committed where and with what frequency.

Re your comment on the neighborhoods, "I would name 2 or 3 but I would get flamed. And for no reason." Funny that you should mention that...but in my recent past experience on this website, I felt I was at the receiving end of some of your flames - and for what I felt was no reason. That's why I hardly ever post here anymore, when I used to do so with some frequency.

Just so we are all perfectly clear on your comments: I'm assuming that you are specifically referring to the 2004 fatal shooting on Addison in front of the Cubby Bear following a Cubs game. Is that right?

It started as a traffic dispute between some White Sox fans who were at the Cubs game (the victim worked on the north side) and the occupants of an SUV. It turned into a fist fight (the SUV driver was struck in the head with a souvenir bat) and then turned tragic when a passenger pulled a gun. Even the father of the victim said at the time he would have never imagined something like that would have happened there (meaning Wrigleyville).

Although I do agree the area around the Cell has gotten better than it was previously, I wouldn't make any bets what will happen to that area with the current housing crisis, especially if it goes on for an extended period of time as some experts are predicting. Time will only tell.

exiledprincess, you know your part of Chicago, and you know downtown. And I respect your information, as you have helped me.

And I am sorry if you feeled that I have flamed you. I have disagree with your opinions upon safety and other issues, just like this time.

I'm there, about 2 days out of 7 every week. From Evergreen Park to Backs of the Yards, and between, even Garfield Blvd. area and lots of other places that I would never send Fodorites. I'm there with my Dad in Ashburn /Wrightwood overnight too. Which looks better but has troubles.

And you are also wrong about the housing right now, Jan.'08- especially South to Archer Ave. and in Brighton Park and other former high crime vicinities. Cops are actually retiring to those areas, and leaving the burbs. Deals are great right now, better than they were last year, and in some areas of high Hispanic gang / visible activity.

I refuse to get the high falutin attitude of expert, and do not want to fight with you. I have my own opinion too about a lot of things you consider must dos and I certainly do not. But I will let it rest.

There is not one iota of mistruth in my post. You can get assaulted and raped in Northern areas, just as readily. And some of them are particularly "in" and trendy. And there it is also possible to be murdered, stranger-wise and in your own apartment within break-ins. I won't give particulars by there has been patterns of that, as you well know, that is the truth. And these victims are not gang members or gang related, for the most part.

The crime around U.of C. is also worse for all the violent categories you mention, as well. But people are "sent" there for tourism. If you study stats, the Black on Black or Black on Hispanic gang fighting is what rises the stats within the 20 block East/West of the Cell, and it is not assaults upon fans. Robbery from cars happens, but I have never had it happen or heard of it happening within a U.S. Cell, or even in Comiskey Parking lot. I have heard of pick pockets who succeed at both ball parks.



The only assault upon a fan I ever read or heard about was one in which a large mouthed media writer got beat up by association.

Sigh.

JJ5, not to get OT, but perhaps you don't remember using words and terms such as "laughable", "elitist" or "don't know Chicago" when disagreeing with suggestions made by others, but I do.

Do you really believe that I don't visit other areas of Chicago than "my part" (whatever that means - but I think you are referring to solely the north side) and the Loop? Just because I don't mention them to visitors doesn't mean I don't go outside of small confines.

Getting back to the point at hand. I asked ORDgirl to clarify if she was saying the area around the Cell had less crime - or the same amount of crime - (specifically violent crime) than the Wrigleyville area.

With all due respect, sometimes residents or others who visit neighborhoods on a frequent basis don't know the full extent of the issues there. Some of these places are changing pretty rapidly with gentrification - sometimes spottily.

As I mentioned before, you can find information on some of websites (for example, the Chicago Police Department CLEAR Geographic Information System) which show crime statistics in a given district, ward, even an address.

For example, using violent crimes during the past year by district as the search criteria, it appears from this website that District #9 (Deering-where the Cell is located) is listed as #9, whereas District #23 (Town Hall-where Wrigley Field is located) and District #19 (Belmont, and which is separated from #23 by Clark Street), are rated #23 and #24. Only District #20 had less.

Of course, you can do more detailed searches by type of crime, exact addresses, location of crime (CTA station, bar/tavern, parking lot, sports arena/stadium), etc.

Please note that there are disclaimers about acuracy on these websites - but you can confirm the issues by going to the Chicago Police Department's website (which can be easily accessed through the City of Chicago's website). They'll also post any special alerts for the particular districts when you go into the specific District information.

Addressing your post on seeing the Milwaukee Zoo, Miller tour and then going to Minn: That is feasible in a day. It will be 5 - 6 hours to Minneapolis from Milwaukee depending on your speed and traffic. Depending on where you are staying, it might be better to reverse your order and end at the zoo since that is just off I 94 on the western edge of town. You will be ahead of some of the rush hour traffic if you start for Minn. from the zoo. It also gives you flexibility about departure time since you can leave when you want. The zoo is great but as advised before wear comfortable walking shoes since it is very large and spread out. The weather may also impact your activities since Aug. could be hot and humid, raining or just beautiful. With the Brewers game also on your schedule, you might stay between the stadium and the zoo since your only event close to downtown would be the Miller tour which isn't that long. Both the stadium and zoo are just off I 94 west of downtown. Of course downtown offers more nightlife so that also may be a consideration. The end of August is the Harley Davidson 105th Anniversary celebration which you will want to avoid for higher hotel prices and very limited availability unless you are part of the celebration. Other than that weekend, Milwaukee is a fun city for tourists.

If it hasn't been mentioned before about Milwaukee, I think a group of guys would love the Safe House, it's a spy bar theme...very fun!

A friend of mine recommended the Captain Pabst Mansion Tour in Milwaukee. Is it any good?

Got my Twins tickets today. Section 115, row 21. Has anybody sat in this area in the Metrodome?

http://seatdata.com/html/mlb_twins/section_mlb_twins_115.htm

Thanks for that site. I hadn't heard of that before.

Finally booked a room for Chicago. 3 nights at the Chicago City Center Hotel and Sports Club. Got it for $250 per night which is more than we had hoped to spend but I'm not surprised at the rate. Anybody ever stay here? Good or bad? Location looks perfect for everything that we want to do.

Friends of mine decided that they would rather go to the Shedd than the Zoo, given that we are going to the Zoo in Minneapolis. How is the Shedd? Worth the steep price?

bookmarking

The Shedd is FABULOUS. So is the dining room with view.

Heads up for anyone thinking about visiting in February.

The Art Institute is FREE in February, just smaller entrance $ to 2 special exhibits, one on Homer Winslow and another.

Such a great deal, I might go down somewhere close to the end of the month.

In August you may want to get into the coolish insides too, rather than being outside. Shedd is entertaining too; observe the stonework outside each "hall" re species etc. That work and the aesthetics inside are PRIMO.

How long does it take to go around the Shedd, assuming a typical pace and all shows?

Half a day, going slow/slow with a show, or half a day with a show, if you move fast over some exhibits. You could do it justice in 3 hours if you had to, but it will take longer than that if you do any interactives or shows.

It takes a lot less time than the Field Museum.

t- it's just too bad you don't have more time in Chi-town. As with most big cities-there is so much to do!

Here is link to Shedd:

http://www.sheddaquarium.org/

I suggest you take a peak and see how long you think you'd like to spend there.

Though it would take some time to see all of the Field Museum, if you also get on line and figure out which areas you'd most like to see, you can arrange your viewing to accommodate only what you really want to see. I'm a little biased, but I think the Field Museum is worth it, even if you only do 3-4 hours there. Just to see Sue is worth the price, IMHO. Read about her here:

http://www.fieldmuseum.org/sue/about.asp

Have fun! GO CUBBIES!

Paula

I'm surprised no one has mentioned Citypass http://www.citypass.com/city/chicago.html. We bought them for Chicago - we saved so much time it was ridiculous! If you are planning on visiting more than one museum, consider it...we just kept cruising past long, long lines and saved more than a few hours. Personally, I'd rather spend a few dollars than spend a lot of time in line!

Agreed that it is too bad I don't have more time for Chicago but there is always next year...I will be complete over the next couple of years with all the baseball stadiums so then I can pick and choose which ones to go back to.

Shouldercat, I was looking at the Go Chicago Card today but didn't like the price for a 3 day pass. This one is definitely the better deal. Thanks for posting that.

Any feedback on our hotel choice - chicago Center Hotel and Sports Club?

t- have you been to the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington yet?

Just wondering which fields you have left to visit. I worked the All-Star game at the Ballpark when it first opened a number of years ago. I met a man from Japan who was visiting every ballpark in America on his vacations. He was up to 24 of them at that time. I like baseball ok, but I just don't get the "visiting every park" thing. To each his own, I guess.

Have fun!

Have not been to either park in Texas yet. I have Washington, Atlanta (will be there this year), Cleveland, 4 for this trip, ST L, KC, 2 in Texas, Denver and Phoenix left.

How reasonable is it to do the Shedd and then the Field Museum in a day. I realize that we won't be able to put a dent in the Field but time is limited. Looking at maybe doing both before heading to US Cellular for the Sox game. We would get to the Shedd for when it opens.

If you do that, you will not get your money's worth out of the Field, IMHO. That's only my opinion, but you are going to be walking all the time, and the summer crowds will make it slower too.

Look at their websites. Some people love the Field and others do not, all that much. There are halls and halls of metals, textiles, jewelry/artwork from different past civilizations. Do you like to look at armour, or baskets, or clothes, or mummies. I like the Native American, Egyptian and some other halls immensely, others just yawn.

The cost to enter is not unconsiderable, and I doubt I myself would ever do the Field if I did not have at least 4 or 5 hours. Others, feel quite differently.

We would mostly be interested in the animal exhibits. Agreed that we will see a small portion of the museum. We are going to get the City Pass as suggested a few posts ago so the cost of admission is quite cheaper. How far apart are the Shedd and Field?

They're basically right next to each other.

Thanks, did not have a map handy next to me!! That definitely helps if we end up doing them the same day with limited time.

If you want to map out your trip, hopstop.com is good. Also, google maps has labels on all the downtown museums and sites.

If you get the CityPass, you must do the Field and Shedd same day, they are right next to each other.
Just to pop in to the Field and see Sue (T Rex) and to look at some of the animal exhibits would be worth it.

That is what our plan is. It seems to change daily. Which is why I am doing the planning now. Biggest thing I have realized is that it will take many trips to Chicago to see everything. Road trip next year may be Chicago, St. Louis and KC.

Is one of the boat tours on your agenda for Chicago yet? You do have that one free day and I think a boat tour that takes you down the Chicago River and out onto Lake Michigan would be fun.

Whoops...I see the boat tour has been mentioned, this topic has become very long...good for you and for others that may want to research Chicago in the future.

Another restaurant/bar to add to your list is Hop Haus. Ate there for the 1st time this weekend. Great beer selection and burgers, nice sports bar atmosphere too. It's at Franklin & Onatario in the River North distric.
http://chicago.metromix.com/restaurants/burgers/hop-haus-river-north/147698/content

Yes it is. We are looking at one of the Arch. Foundations tours for Sunday afternoon. Any recommendations on which one?

How do General Admission Bleacher seats work at Wrigley? Is there a line before the gates open to get these seats?

Funny thing about this thread is that a friend of mine who didn't know about the forum here until today (found out about it from somebody he works with), came on and did a search on Chicago and found this post. Called me and was telling me about it, not knowing I was the poster. It definitely has a ton of useful info in it and I really appreciate everybody's help.

There are also past posts of immense information re the boat tours and lots of other aspects of features that you have asked about. Use the search feature. I just did this last month for Baltimore and found some gems too.

Be quite aware that a boat tour by the Arch.Foundation or any vendor, that goes DOWN the Chicago River and one that goes OUT into Lake Michigan, be they arch. or not- are two different things.

If you go out into the lake, you will go through the locks and it takes much longer for this process, hours at times, when the locks get busy in summer. We have been stuck out there in mid and small crafts, AND in tour boats both.

Just to warn you, that the ones that point out the buildings and give you the River view are shorter, and also you are IN Chicago, and not looking at a lakeview of Chicago.

A great view of Chicago's coastline can ge gotten from the Swissotel- you can see the curve of the lake all the way down to Hyde Park going South.

tchoiniere - another tip about Citypass: when we went to get in the Field, the line was out the door snaking around. We skirted the edge of the crowd (saying excuse me all the way...)to get up near the desk and asked where to go to use the pass. The guard led us right up to the desk. The other museums have more of a noticable entrance for the pass than the Field did.

Thanks for pointing that out.

I just got outvoted on the hotel (Chicago City Center Hotel) as my friends feel it is too much for the location and want to stay at the Hard Rock Hotel. Any feedback on this choice? Seems ok to me as it is around the same price.

Tchoiniere, No idea on those hotels, but I thought I'd make a reading suggestion ... I think it'd be a cool idea to read the Devil in the White City before you come to Chicago. I just finished reading it; it really gives you an appreciation of the city, the attitude and temperament of its people, and its history.

And since it isn't until August, and you sound open to a context, you can understand SO much more about what you see, what is really old etc. and basic logistics if you watch a PBS super classic video- "Chicago-City of the Century".

Nearly every public library of any size metropolitan has it. And it can be rented cheaply as well.

Just got our Cubs tickets. Section 226. Has anybody sat here?

I haven't sat near there, but it's a good seat.

Did you get the tickets via the Cubs or one of the scalper sites? I've been sitting in the Cubs' "virtual waiting room" for like an hour!

Stubhub. I was in the virtual waiting room and could not get through. Within 5 minutes of the tickets going on sale, the game I was going to get was sold out (8/9 Cardinals game). We paid way too much for the tickets but we wanted good seats and its our only chance

Yeah, that sucks. I'm trying to get bleacher seats for the first weekend games, but I've been waiting for over two hours now. The bleacher seats via scalpers are almost 100 bucks. Oh well.

I saw the bleacher seats and as fun as they would be, decided to get box seats instead for $200

Wow, nice. I've never had box seats at Wrigley. The bleachers are a good time, though.

The bleacher seats were $125. I knew it was going to be as tough as getting Sox - Yankees tickets at Fenway. I figured get good seats this year and the next time in Chicago go for the bleacher seats and make sure its not a Cardinals game!!! With our research into this trip, I think next year it may be Cleveland, Chicago, St Louis, and KC. Or just Chicago thru KC.

Just got my Brewers tickets so we are all set on the tickets thankfully. Got great seats in Milwaukee. Section 215.

Has anyone gone on this Riverboat tours in Minneapolis? We are looking at maybe doing the Minneapolis Pizza and Lock Cruise tour.

http://www.minneapolisqueen.com/index.html

just a suggestion if you are planning on visiting the safehouse in Milwaukee.. get reservations !!
even for lunch...

I've been to the Safe House a couple of times for lunch recently because it's very near my work, and other people wanted to go there. During the week, you certainly don't need a reservation--the place wasn't half full. The food's OK, but nothing special.

I believe Harley Davidson is based in Milwaukee, so you might check them out. Not sure if there's any sort of tour, I haven't ever checked it out, and it's been over five years since I've been in the city. Might be something to look into.

Also people's suggested the Miller Brewery, it's down the interstate from the stadium. Just follow the yeast smell. (j/k, but it is rather strong at times)

There was a rather yummy small italian restaurant in the area, but I forget the name, just remember that it was located on Wis. Ave.

Harley-Davidson is, indeed, located in Milwaukee--well, the suburb of Wauwatosa. Tours are free and last approximately one hour.

Tours begin at regular intervals between 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis for each day’s available tours beginning at 9:00 a.m. Tours are not offered during production changes and year-end maintenance.

They're building a muesum near downtown, which is scheduled to open in 2008, but I don't know exactly when.

I can't think of an Italian restaurant on Wisconsin Avenue.

abram- Didn't know that it was in Wauwatosa! Was in the area for about 3 years and never found that out... I didn't get a chance to travel around much at the time, though.

And the restaurant might of been on Bluemound... And maybe it's not there anymore, it was a small place... A friend/roommate of mine and her parents took me there a couple times, but, it's been over 5 years go. Nothing fancy, but it was good.

On Bluemound, it might have been Balistreri's--they have a couple of places.

As you've seen Chicagoans take a lot of pride in their city.
Just a few opinions to add:
-For the architecture tour, do the Chicago Architecture Foundation on the river only. It is very interesting, and the ones that go on the lake are just speedboats with a very far away view of the skyline...if you've been on a speedboat before, no need to do this.
-Definitely no car. The el and cabs will be your best bet. Use this site for the el: http://tripsweb.rtachicago.com/ It's the trip planner and gives you door-to-door instructions.
-Definitely skip the Sears. Long lines, touristy, pricey, and not a view you don't get everywhere else. Do the drinks in the Signature Room at Hancock if you really want to see the view.
-Second City is a ton of fun if you have time. I've also heard Bye Bye Liver is really funny if you're with a drinking group.
-Wrigleyville you can easily spend the whole day eating, barhopping, and watching sports at the many bars lining the field. That's what many of us locals do every gameday.
-Definitely not much around US Cellular. You can go to Jimbo's Lounge if you want, or you can just tailgate in the parking lots. Exile, not sure when the last time you went to Comiskey was, but I am a 23 yr old blonde girl and go there all the time with only a friend or two and never feel the least bit unsafe. The area has changed a ton and is totally safe in the areas around the stadium.
-LP Zoo is nice because it's free but unless you have kids with you, I think there's a lot better ways to spend your time in Chicago.
-I only like the dolphin show at the Shedd. It's nice because it's on the lake but I think I would also skip this with your timeframe.
-I've stayed at Hard Rock before. My room was a little dirty but still decent and a great location for the things you're talking about doing and fun. A little walk to the el, but you'll be fine.
-Since you're a young group, if you have time, North Avenue Beach is really fun during the summer. Have the cab drop you off at Castaways.

w351, oh, I dunno. I get around in that area about every week or two - maybe three at the most when I'm particularly busy. Some ex-coworkers and friends live down that way.

Not to get argumentative about it but statistics don't lie, although there might be some question about how to classify some of them (for example, "home invasion" as opposed to "homocide"). Take a look at them sometime.

I know a lot of people get a pretty relaxed when a neighborhood starts getting gentrified; but even in the more/most gentrified neighborhoods in the city, you can't just be wandering around at night or at odd hours. Take a look at the fight between several off-duty police and gangmembers in the middle of Lincoln Park in the wee hours or the lady who got her throat slit while running early in the morning in the park. Or the people fished out of the Chicago River downtown - or even the body found at Millennium Park.

That's why I cringe every time I see people stating on these forums how they felt so safe in Chicago, they could walk about at all hours, etc. Just not the case. It's a big city and, as I was once told, "Where the sheep are, the wolves will follow".