I'm visiting in late August for a Birthday weekend for my boyfriend to see a Cubs game. In my on-going hunt for a great deal on a great hotel, I wonder - will we need to rent a car or is public transportation and taxis the way to go??? We're coming from So. California - this will be a first visit for both of us.

Chicago has great public transportation. Go to transitchicago.com and metrarail.com for maps and schedules. The concierge or clerk at your hotel should be able to get you to the nearest el stop, which is what you want for Wrigley Field. Taxis are good for getting around, but I recommend doing a lot of walking to really appreciate the city.

Having visited Chicago about ten times, I totally concur that public transport will well meet your needs on this first visit. All the good things about this city are much more accessible by public transit and walking; a car will only leave you frustrated trying to find a place to park without losing an arm and a leg.

Parking in Chicago is very expensive, so taxis would be the way I would go...

Definitely do not rent a car if everything you're doing is located in the city. You can use the "L" to get from the airport, provided your luggage isn't too much to handle, or you can take a taxi. Once in the city you can use buses or the "L" or taxis to get around. Parking in the city, especially at hotels, is obnoxious.

Go to www.transitchicago.com for more info on Chicago public transportation.