Planned a trip to Chicago June 28 to 30. Didn't realize that the festival was going on at that time. Staying across the street from Grant Park. Any sugestions on how to best enjoy the Taste of Chicago?

Start early, stay late and swallow, swallow, swallow.

Some kind of an eating plan would probably be a good idea. I know the Chicago Tribune newspaper publishes a list and brief reviews of the restaurants represented there and also a schedule of who is performing--it's usually in the Friday guide, so would probably come out on the 28th. They may have a map on site as well.Daytime is obviously less crowded than nighttime. Enjoy, but I think one day there would be more than enough.

Roger: The best way to enjoy the Taste of Chicago is not to go. Ugh! Overpriced bad food on a stick, with no place to eat it.

Here's the link that lists all entertainment, etc. Shouldn't be too bad if you are staying within walking distance. It does get VERY crowded though, especially on the night of the big fireworks display. The best times are during the day on weekdays, less crowds because more people are at work. http://www.ci.chi.il.us/SpecialEvents/Festivals/Taste2002/

There always has to be someone like Anon out there. However, you don't really need a plan unless there is a band you would like to see. So check out the above link and if there isn't a particular band you want to see just wing it. It is probably best to go early to avoid the crowds. I do agree the food isn't the best and it is expensive for what you get but it is a Chicago tradition and I think if you are close and have a few hours to kill you should go. You won't have to worry about the fireworks mentioned above because those are on July 3rd. But if you are looking for fireworks they usually have them on Saturdays on Navy Pier. Summerfest is going on that weekend also in Milwaukee - much better music.

To: "xxx".
Thx for the website. Just found out that my favorite "Air and Water Show" will be in town when we are.

We lucked out a few years ago as it was in town at the same time.
The Blue Angels buzzed Wrigley Field 2-3 times. Scared the pitcher off the mound on one fly over.

We saw another awesome show later while eating at Riva's on the Navy Pier at sunset. They buzzed it and went straight up out over Lake Mich then did the stall and fell back....WOW!
Thx again.
Kal

Suzy: By your own admission, the food is overpriced, not good and the Taste is too crowded. My points exactly. Who cares if it is a "Chicago tradition"? I don't understand why people want to wait in line while side-stepping spilled beer & food puddles to eat crappy food.

There is nothing like the Chicago airshow.

I love chicogo, but don't enjoy the Taste of Chicago. My advice - go for 1-2 hours max, then get on with the rest of the city.

I'm with Anon. If you find one Chicago resident (and living in a western suburb does not make you a Chicagoan!) I'd be surprised. Most people I know go once and then avoid Taste like the plague. It is always hot, food is ridiculously overpriced and not very good. Hey, you're in Chicago, go to one of the hundreds of fantastic restaurants if you want a good food experience while you're here! REALLY!

I just got back from Chicago today and the loop area is really torn up from construction. There are closed roads and detours all over downtown so expect dealys. Maybe it's normal....

Gary: Thanks for the traffic update - what are the conditions like on the Stevenson?

I had to laugh at Anon's post. It is SO true. My sister and I attended the very first Chicago-fest (now Taste of Chicago). There was only one womens' bathroom and one man's bathroom. We had to go so bad, we went to the men's restroom..we didn't care at that point. And as Anon says..no place to eat your food. You end up standing in a crowd of people chowing down on the gyro and being pushed around from all directions. But you know what? I'd do it all over again. Go and enjoy!

Well eater I am a Chicago resident (Lakeview area) and while I hate the crowds I do attend the Taste every year. We usually make it an office event and pick a weekday and go down there for a two hour or so lunch one time each year. The food is not as bad as some have said and it gives you the option of tasting a bunch of different things as the same time and maybe from restaurants you might not have been too. Its great too that the portions are small so you can get plenty of variety. I do agree going at night especially Friday or Saturday is a nightmare. 2 years ago my in laws were in town and wanted to do it on Friday night UGGGHHH, the music was good but that is all I can say. To enjoy the taste walk over during the day and then move on.