Hi everyone, I'm trying to think of a fun place to spend my birthday. I've fallin in love with Chicago. I was there in December and it snowed everyday but it was great. Thinking of staying in a wonderful hotel, perhaps The Peninsula. I'm just wondering if I should brave the wind for a long weekend or just find a warm sandy place to go. I'm from Virginia so I'm no stranger to cold weather but Chicago wind scares me. Any thoughts?

I don't live in Chicago, but have frequently visited. Love the city! And although it can be quite windy at times, I doubt you are going to find long periods of sustained winds. And I don't think Chicago gets the kind of damage that you find with the areas in the Midwest plains (Nebraska, Iowa Kansas, ect.). Though I am sure that going in March can be a mixed bag of weather, as it is in most places in the country. Also, Chicago didn't get the nickname "The Windy City" because of its winds, but because of its politicans.

March is a great time to visit Chicago ~ I have been in Chicago in March when the temp was in the 70's! Of course, it could also be in the 40's! Nevertheless, I would not hesitate to visit during that time - espcially to stay at the Penn! It is one of the best hotels I have ever stayed in anywhere in the country!

I was going to mention that the Pennisula has a great spa within the hotel as well as a pool overlooking Michigan ave. You can put on your robe in your room and take the elevator to the spa - no need to even leave the hotel!

March is terrific. Everyone gets invigorated by thoughts of spring.

Pompeii is at the Field until March 26 and there are lots of good shows in town.

March is hit or miss here-60s one day, 40s and sideways rain the next BUT as long as you know that, definately come! The flower & garden show is at Navy Pier and has some fabulous displays if that interests you and you don't have to deal with summer crowds at the museums/Mich Ave.

Thank you all for responding. There's so much to do indoors in Chicago, I'm sure I'll find ways to stay warm. I'll log onto metromix and see what's happening in March.

i love chicago but if I were you i'd head to Jamaica instead, there are some very good fares for March, $300 total from Chicago. But of course, I live here and I'm dying for some warm weather and a real beach, snorkeling in the caribbean. I'm from california and these long winters really start to get to me by march. A vacation in Jamaica is cheaper for me than airfare and accomodations in NYC, LA, SF. And that's for my own private oceanfront thatched hut cottage. But if you need lots of stimulation -- museums, tons of shopping, walking around great urban space for miles all day and night, this is a great city. If you want to nap in a hammock overlooking the ocean or wake up in the morning to watch dolphins in the distance while you drink Jamaican coffee from your veranda, you know where to head!