Chicago at Thanksgiving
 

Instead of traveling home this year, we're planning on meeting up in Chicago. There is a really good deal at the Fairmont going on over the holiday weekend but wanted to know what (other than shopping) there would be to do. I've been to Chicago plenty of times and have friends there, but other family members have not. IS anything openon Thanksgiving day itself? A parade? And we are hoping to have a great dinner (non-turkey) I'd love David Burke's Primehouse but not sure - open to suggestions. Some girly stuff - spa, shopping and some manly stuff - sports, drinking - but no typical touristy Chicago stuff, rather authentic Chicago, neighborhood stuff to do. I know this is kind of vague, but really have no set itinerary.

The parade is on State Street from Congress to Randolph. It begins at 8 am. Check www.chicagofestivals.org for complete info. The Kriskindl Market begins November 21 on Daley Plaza and is open daily from 11 am to 8 pm.

The Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium are open on Thanksgiving Day and ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo begins November 23. Check www.lpzoo.org.

Les Miserables and Sister Act will have performances that week except for Thursday.

Most stores will be closed Thursday. Some may open later in the evening or at midnight to begin Black Friday sales. The Bears will play a home game on November 25. The Tribune usually publishes a list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day in early November. Check www.metromix.com.

It's a short walk to the parade from the Fairmont. If you aren't a member of their loyalty program, sign up and you'll get free WiFi. Aria, the Fairmont's restaurant is very good, Asian fusion.
ZooLights is wonderful.

We were there 2 years ago and I asked similar advice. The response was to google Thanksgiving meals chicago or similar. (probably the metromix cite above). At that time, I was able to get lists of restaurants open for T-day. I made reservations for McCormick and Schmick (but canceled them due to a change of plans).

The parade was an event. Crowded though.

During that week (probably not on Thurs) apparently it is a bit of an event to have lunch at the Walnut room in Macy's. If nothing else pop in and look at the multi-story Christmans tree. (Locals, please correct me if I'm mistaken).

We go to NoMi every year for Thanksgiving dinner. It's fabulous. You do need reservations and it's not cheap.