Neither. Isn't Cleveland also known as the "mistake on the lake"?

Go to Chicago. When you are in the downtown part of the city you don't need at car--lots of taxis, the El, etc. When you want to explore the surrounding area, rent a car. I would suggest a trip out to Galena, an old town on the Mississippi River with historical status and lots of antique shops. It's about 3 hours west of Chicago. If you want to overnight there is the Eagle Ridge Inn or lots of B&Bs. Have fun. I haven't been in Cleveland for 30 years and wouldn't go, even if it was totally rehabed.

Hi Kam!
Hey, your answer surprises me! You are one of the classiest and most helpful posters on this board. And you have provided our family with a myriad of wonderful advice about California the past few years, and I'll always be grateful.

While I agree that Chicago is cool (in fact, DH and I are headed there for a long weekend next week) Cleveland Rocks! If you haven't been to Cleveland in 30 years, you haven't been to Cleveland.

I respectfully challenge you to give it a chance some summer and then make your decision. If I were a betting woman, I'd lay odds that you'll change your mind! ))

Well, Hmmmmm, I'm glad I at least coaxed you out - Hope the light didn't hurt your eyes!

There have been several responses to the 'where else in addition to Chicago' portion of your question. Keep in mind, that elsewhere on this Forum - in other Chicago threads - it's mentioned that one of the drawbacks to Chicago is there's no place else GREAT nearby. Myself, I would never pack two teens in the car and haul them three hours to Galena, never thought it was much of anything. If this is your first visit to Chicago - why not just luxuriate in not being rushed and enjoy all it has to offer, including boat rides, a day at the beach (Oak Street), maybe rent some bikes for a ride along the lakefront, the zoo, shopping, food and museums galore.

Can't stop trying to come up with a worthwhile jaunt for you, though. How 'bout this- (It depends on the nature of your children, of course): Springfield and nearby New Salem is very interesting for the Lincoln history and about a three hour (extremely flat and boring) drive from Chicago.

TTT

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