Good place for a family reunion?

We%26#39;re trying to find a centrally located place for an informal family reunion for this summer. Somewhere in southwestern Michigan, northwestern Indiana or northeastern Illinois would be best.

We haven%26#39;t gotten together in way too long, and we%26#39;d just like a place to reconnect and have a good time. Obviously we%26#39;d need something that works for all age groups with a variety of activities. For lodging, we%26#39;d need a hotel rather than a vacation home because I%26#39;m not sure how many people would be able to make it, and it would only be for the weekend.

Thank you in advance for any help you can give us!

Good place for a family reunion?

http://www.grizzlyjacksresort.com/

Good place for a family reunion?

Also in that area is Starved Rock State Park. There is a lodg cabins and miles of trails. More info at: …state.il.us/LANDS/…park.htm

Enjoy your trip!

Thank you both very much!

I look forward to looking at the links in depth!

Trump Tower

Does anyone know if the Trump Tower plans to have an observation deck similiar to the John Hancock or Sears Tower where the genearl public can view the city from the upper floors? Are there any restaurants in the Trump Tower that the general public can attend and see some of these views?

Trump Tower

Sixteen is the restaurant that offers dramatic views of the city and river. However, it%26#39;s only on floor 16 so you are not going to get the expansive views that the hancock offers. But the Trump views offer a different perspecitve--close up of the Wrigley Clock for instance is very neat.

Help - Two 30 somethings off to Chicago

Can you help? We are two 30 something females (one the right side and one the wrong) going to Chicago from London in May. Neither of us are really drinkers or big into nice meals (well, when on hols) but love to shop! We also like to see some of the sights - what would you recommend we do and see?

Help - Two 30 somethings off to Chicago

Sorry - we are in Chicago for 5 nights.

Help - Two 30 somethings off to Chicago

I%26#39;m not a big shopper myself, but of course North Michigan Avenue and the streets just off of it up around Water Tower Place is must-do for shoppers. Other areas, like Bucktown (the Damen stop on the Blue Line) and Lincoln Park area (west of Lincoln Park on streets like Clark, Halsted, LIncoln) are always mentioned - some of that depends on how comfortable you are with public transportation, which is excellent in those areas. For sights, there are many, many posts here on what sights to see - big ones are Art Institute and Millenium Park, taking the architecture boat cruise - if you indicate what you are interested in seeing, i.e. museums, history, architecture, culture, people can give you more specific information. You will have a great time here!

www.explorechicago.org is a good site to do some research.

www.transitchicago.com for public transit information. A CTA visitor pass might come in handy for your visit.

www.themagnificentmile.com/shopping.cfm

www.chicagoreader.com for dining and entertainment listings.

Many thanks to you both for your advice. I%26#39;m not big on museums but may pay a trip - I like architecture and people. I love to people watch too from cafes etc.

I have no issue with travelling on public transport unless advised there are bits to avoid. We both like to walk too - comfy shoes are the first thing to be packed.

We are staying at the Affinia if that%26#39;s any help.

Leaving In a Week! Help!

My husband has a course in Rolling Meadows beginning next Friday moning and ending Saturday afternoon. We get into OHare Thursday at Noon, April 30th. Our two teenagers, 16 and 18 will be with us. We are staying at the Holiday Inn in Rolling Meadows 3405 ALGONQUIN, as course is there.

Planning on changing hotels to one in the city Saturday afternoon. I was thinking Embassy Suites, as our oldest and his girlfriend may stay with us Sat and Sunday night (he lives in St. Charles). Although I did find great deals at Hotel Sax Chicago and Hotel Monaco both for 119 per night on Travel Zoo.

I am planning on taking the kids into the city on Friday and Saturday. A couple of ideas are Shedds Aquar. and the Museum of science and history. Then on Sunday do Navy Pier with husband too. We do want to eat at Giandaoros (spelling) and maybe an Irish place? Also, Sat night I think we all may catch a Second City Show????

Tons of Questions! Should the kids and I take a train into the city on Friday and Saturday? We are renting a car, but unsure about parking and getting around the city (city driving does not bother me). If using public transports should I purchase some kind of discount card? Also, should I get GoCards for the kids and myself?

What should we not miss? We did Sears tower a couple of years ago when we stopped in Chi-town for a few hours. What sites, restuarants, geeze just everything!

Our flight leaves for home Monday at 1:00 from ohare...

Leaving In a Week! Help!

www.metrarail.com is what you%26#39;ll take from the %26#39;burbs into the city. They have a great deal for weekend tickets. The bad news is that trains run about every two hours on Saturday.

An alternate suggestion would be to drive to either Rosemont or Cumberland CTA blue line train station. Parking%26#39;s available at both. CTA trains run more often than Metra. www.transitchicago.com for details.

The other thing to consider is that the MSI is 7 miles south of downtown. Also, you need to allow at least a 1/2 day for a visit there.

If you%26#39;re pressed for time, you might want to bite the bullet and drive first to the MSI and head downtown from there. Yes, you%26#39;ll need to pay for parking twice. But what%26#39;s your time worth?

Lots of information at www.explorechicago.org

Dining search tool at www.chicagoreader.com

Leaving In a Week! Help!

Shedd is OK but tends to attract huge crowds with many small kids running around....be prepared that your teenagers might not love it. Navy Pier is a good teenager scene, and so is Lincoln Park, like walk down Armitage, up Lincoln or Halsted. Likewise Michigan Ave and the Beach Scene...head north of the river along the lakefront. Field Museum is world class as is the Art Museum. Giordanos for Pizza or Malnatis or Pizza Uno or Due or....Deep dish.

Hotels you mention are all good.

ZB

If you are going to Second City on a Saturday, get your tickets ASAP. They usually sell out the early show on Saturday.

I would not go through the hassle of trying to do Shedd and MSI, the distance is too far apart to enjoy either one fully. If you must do Shedd, I would pair it with either the Adler Planetarium or the Field Museum and then a nice short hike down to Millenium Park.

I agree, get your tickets to SC early.

16 and 18 yr olds.........espn zone downtown.....red line to addison and see wrigley field and all around that area. Maybe do that Fri. afternoon. Museums and aquarium will probably be busy. Just people watch on Michigan Avenue...there is a Burton store by Hancock building that teenagers might like. Also the view from Hancock is good (and free) sears tower charges.

The Hancock Observatory is not free. hancock-observatory.com/en/…general_info.html

Stand corrected....we usally enter off the side road and go to the lounge. Sorry.

We just took our kids to Chicago for a day over spring break to visit the Field Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry. Our kids are 16yo girl and 14yo and 9yo boys.

Half a day was enough time for us to see the Field Museum, but we%26#39;ve been there before about 8 years ago so it wasn%26#39;t completely new. I personally think even kids your boys%26#39; ages will enjoy seeing it for at least part of a day. There is also a special Pirates exhibit that my kids REALLY wanted to see, but I vetoed it due to cost (it%26#39;s an extra fee) and because we didn%26#39;t have a lot of time.

MOSI is a hit for our entire family as well - although a few things are geared towards younger kids, it%26#39;s not a ';children%26#39;s museum';. I actually think my husband enjoyed it more than anyone though.

We live about 3.5 hours away, so drove into town and parked first at Soldier Field to go to the Field Museum ($16) then drove to MOSI and parked there (another $16). Drive was very easy between the two museums, although price wise we would have been better off taking the bus back and forth between them than paying parking at both locations. It was worth the extra cost for the convenience for us that day though.

I%26#39;m sure my kids would love the aquarium, but it wasn%26#39;t in the budget this time. We actually made the trip because we have annual passes to another Science museum, and can get into the Field Museum and MOSI for free w/ reciprocal museum arrangements. This might be worth looking into if you have a local science museum of some sort - could very well be cheaper to buy an annual pass at a local museum before heading to Chicago - the at-the-door prices can get fairly expensive.

I can%26#39;t say anything about Navy Pier because we%26#39;ve never visited there, only drove past - but we%26#39;ll get intimately acquainted w/ it this summer becasue my daughter as a huge volleyball tourney actually on the pier in June - looking forward to that trip!

Also, if your boys are at all interested in baseball and they%26#39;ve never been to a Cubs game, I%26#39;d highly consider doing that too - we go every few years and it%26#39;s a great experience, win or lose :)

Have a wonderful trip!

Pacquiao and Hatton Fight this saturday

Will be in Chicago this weekend. Any place in Mag Mile/River North area where we can watch the fight? Thanks in advance!!

Got tix for the cubs/giants next monday/tuesday...hope it doesnt get rained out.

Pacquiao and Hatton Fight this saturday

Maybe here - www.espnzone.com/chicago

Comfort Suites 320 North Michigan Avenue

Has anyone stayed at the Comfort Suites at 320 North Michigan Avenue? Is it new, I%26#39;ve never looked up a hotel on Trip Advisor and it had zero reviews and pics. Thanks, TRM

Comfort Suites 320 North Michigan Avenue

It%26#39;s a new property. I pass it daily but haven%26#39;t noticed a sign or any activity indicating it was open.

Comfort Suites 320 North Michigan Avenue

Im hoping that being new is a good thing, Comfort Suites are pretty convenient for travelling with kids (my wife and I would prefer the Sofitel, Swissotel, Amalfi, Allegro etc. if we were by ourselves). I noticed that on Google Maps street view there still is not any signage. Thanks, TRM

Your post caused me anxiety... I booked 6 nights there for next summer vacation. When I first called the Choice Hotel reservation central (in march) they told me it has been openened for 1 or 2 months... Strange and scary that it doesn%26#39;t show any sign of opening... So I just called back to check on that. The lady confirmed to me that the opening is due for april 22th... What a relief... I thought I had given my money to a unexistant hotel. I will write a review on Trip advisor after my stay.

I had reservations for April 6-9th, and alas, I got the email today that it will not be open for our trip. Bummer. I had reservations for the 2BR suite with Choice points. I am glad I had a backup plan for the Affinia that I booked on Travelzoo! When I was researching this Comfort Suites, I did a reverse lookup on the address and I believe it used to be a Marriott Execustay. It looks like a terrific property! When you go to the website to book the rooms, it looks as if the reservations start for April 20th. Opening any kind of ';new'; building depends on inspections...and this one was delayed.

any report yet?

As of this week, I have still seen no evidence of life in the building. There are no signs outside nor any banners announcing the opening date and the construction permits are still taped to the front window.

In comparison, a LaQuinta under construction in a former office building in the west Loop hung a banner with the hotel name several weeks ago. Even though the crews are just beginning to work on the lobby areas, their website is accepting reservations for mid-May.

I was just curious so I clicked around some dates on www.choicehotels.com. I couldn%26#39;t get availability until mid-March of 2010. Either they are totally booked are not taking reservations until around then. Famillefun, I would make some cancellable backup plans for your dates just in case. I found the Affinia on Travelzoo (my teens did great in such a swanky place...but no breakfast). Travelzoo.com currently has a deal at the Hotel Sax with free parking that my friend got for this July. I would like to go back to Chicago...and will definately try for this place...if it ever opens!

The comfort suites web site is accepting reservations for this place. I%26#39;ve got reservations for July - I%26#39;d like to know if it is going to be opne or not!

I made reservations in January for April. I got a call three days before we were to leave that they were not going to open in time. They did not offer any concessions. I would make some back up plans that you could cancel. That was the wise advise that was given to me! Check www.travelzoo.com for specials.

teddysdad - Your best bet (in addition to making a backup reservation - very wise advice indeed) is to call customer service for the hotel chain. Since nothing physically on the building indicates when it%26#39;s going to open, I%26#39;m guessing it will be tough for most people at TA to hazard a guess.

oily skin

Renaissance Blackstone--Questions and Suggestions?

My wife and I will be coming to Chicago over the Memorial Day weekend for a short getaway without the kids.

I managed to get a phenomenal rate at the Blackstone ($75 a night, with upgrade to club level due to my rewards membership) so plan to stay there, recognizing that it is not quite in the prime tourist area. Not having been to Chicago in some years, I was hoping to get some advice on this forum (and apologize in advance if I%26#39;m raising some tired old questions).

Is the hotel within walking distance to ';Magnificent Mile'; shopping, or is that a little too far? Also, are there any can%26#39;t-miss but reasonably priced restaurants in that area of the Loop (or reasonably close)?

On the topic of dinner suggestions, I%26#39;ve been researching steakhouses other than the national chains such as Capital Grille that are fun and offer something a little different from the typical while being a little more friendly than the higher end places (say, below $40 a steak; thanks to the plunging Canadian dollar, this has become a far more expensive indulgence). Wildfire and Kinzie Chophouse seem to fit the bill, although opinions vary widely (not surprising for a city known for its steaks). Any views or alternatives to suggest?

Also, I plan to buy some wine while there to bring home. Usually, I like to go to World Market when possible due to their great prices and selection, but it looks like the closest location might be a little out of the way. Any other discount wine shops in the area worth checking out, perferably within walking distance?

Finally, having read many of the posts about taking the train from O%26#39;Hare, it appears that is a preferable option depending on time of day. For a flight arriving at O%26#39;hare at 3 pm on a Friday, is it safe to assume that traffic heading downtown would favor the L? What about on Monday morning for a 9:30 am flight (unless Memorial Day would mean less traffic, in which case perhaps a shuttle or cab would be better to catch the early flight)?

Many thanks in advance for the suggestions.

Renaissance Blackstone--Questions and Suggestions?

Actually, in the Blackstone is a fabulous restaurant: Mercat--upscale spanish tapas with all kinds of great wine by the glass. I love it there. Regarding steaks: I like both Wildfire and Kinzie Chophouse. Gibson%26#39;s is also very popular and the quintessential old Chicago Steak House is probably Gene % Georgetti%26#39;s on Franklin Street. In the south loop, near your hotel (1 mile away or so) there are two big wine emporium%26#39;s--Binny%26#39;s and Sam%26#39;s. I think Sam%26#39;s may be closer to your hotel but I personally think Binny%26#39;s has better pricing. But it depends on the wine you are purchasing. Taking the blue line back and forth is going to save you alot of money. However, I feel your pain with the early morning...but cabbing or shuttling to Ohare is unpredictable...I have missed many flights thinking traffic would be light. At least the blue line is predictable. (Just under an hour from most loop stops).

Renaissance Blackstone--Questions and Suggestions?

Nice score on your hotel. You are staying on south Michigan Ave. The Mag Mile area is north of the Chicago River. IMO, too far to walk. You%26#39;re better off taking a CTA bus. www.themagnificentmile.com

Steakhouses have been covered quite extensively on this forum. Please search for previous posts. All are good.

Wine shop:

Sam%26#39;s - 50 E Roosevelt Rd. - http://www.samswine.com

Binny%26#39;s - 213 W. Grand Ave. - http://www.binnys.com/

Neither are within walking distance to your hotel.

The ';L'; is your best bet from/to O%26#39;Hare. However, Memorial Day traffic should be pretty easy. A cab will run around $45ish

ISO inexpensive restaurant with outdoor seating.

We will be in the city 5-1 and 5-2 and staying at the Palmer House. I%26#39;m hoping to find a restaurant nearby with nice outdoor seating. I%26#39;d prefer a Tappas style restaurant but ultimately it really doesn%26#39;t matter. We don%26#39;t smoke. We just like to eat outside when the weather is cooperative.

ISO inexpensive restaurant with outdoor seating.

http://www.parkgrillchicago.com/

鈥etromix.com/restaurants/鈥ontent

ISO inexpensive restaurant with outdoor seating.

Sears Tower has a nice mexican restaurant with outside seating. It%26#39;s about 5 floors up.

Saw this in my email this morning, these are all new places but I saw at least one tapas place

鈥etromix.com/restaurants/鈥ontent

I would not get my hopes up about it being warm enough but you never know. Smoking is practically a class 1 felony in Chicago so you do not have to worry about it. The before mention Park grill is the best outdoor place near your hotel. The best tapas place in the city, Mercat a la Planxa is just down the street and has some outdoor seating. Gage also has a few outdoor tables.

http://chicagovisitor.net/Restaurants.html

I actually live just outside Chicago in northwest Indiana. Wifey works downtown in the Bloomingdales building so we%26#39;re pretty farmilliar with the city as a whole. We don%26#39;t get downtown much at all in the evenings, especially without the kids in tow. We%26#39;re not so worried about the weather right now. Tomorrow it is SUPPOSED to be in the 70%26#39;s then drop back down to the 40%26#39;s the beginning of next week. Go figure. If the weather cooperates than we%26#39;d like to sit outside. We%26#39;d especially like to be close to the hotel, walking less than a mile or so one way.

I decided on the Webber Grill. Wifey has been there but I haven%26#39;t. Outdoor seating is available but if the weather doesn%26#39;t cooperate than we can easily be seated indoors. We have 7:00 rezzies so now we%26#39;ll have to find a great place to go for dessert / coffee. Maybe back to the hotel??

In Lincoln Park:

Sweet Mandy B%26#39;s

1208 W. Webster Ave.

773-244-1174

Open %26#39;til 11

Yea, I found them on Menuism. Looks like a great place. I think I%26#39;ll check it out. Thanks!!!

How warmly should we dress this week in Chicago?

Hi TAs -

I am going to Chicago this Wednesday through Sunday for an annual ';Spring Break'; get together with old college girlfriends.

In California, it has gotten to be very solid Spring weather.

I looked online and it looks like cool weather in Chicago.

My question - we will be going on the architectural boat tour, shopping, museums and a Cubs game - how warmly should we dress? Does it feel like Spring - or is it still quite chilly? Would it be lightweight wool/cashmere sweaters, or cotton sweaters? A wool car coat length jacket, or a lightweight rain/windbreaker? Socks/nylons, or bare? Long sleeve shirts or short sleeve? Sandals yet? I am sure you get my drift.

Here in CA we have put away the warm (wool) clothing for the year, so I am just trying to figure out this trip. I appreciate your efforts.

AnnMV

How warmly should we dress this week in Chicago?

Google Chicago Weather before you pack. Keep in mind, downtown and Wrigley Field are close to Lake Michigan. Temperatures tend to be a bit cooler. Bring a jacket and/or sweater along with a small umbrella. I%26#39;m already in my sandals mode. I never wear nylons.

How warmly should we dress this week in Chicago?

Are we talking wool or cotton?

Cotton

Keep in mind you can get winter and summer basically in the same day, so you need to be prepared for a wide range. For example, this past Saturday it was in the mid-70s around noon and dropped down to the low 40s by early evening after a cold front moved through. The key this time of year is to have layers and be prepared for anything.

It looks like the weather will be mostly in the 50%26#39;s, with some wind and rain. With that combination, some people really feel the chill. I recommend long pants, no sandals, a cotton sweater for day and a warmer sweater for nighttime, plus a raincoat. You may even want gloves and a lightweight scarf if you are sensitive to the cold. Northerners won%26#39;t need all this, but, for Californians and southerners, our weather does take some getting used to.

oily skin

Cafe 36

Seen it on TV ';Gordon Ramseys'; Kitchen Nightmares USA, here in UK!

Anyone actually been there?

Thought we might look it up when we visit in August!

Cafe 36

http://www.yelp.com/biz/cafe-36-la-grange

http://www.lthforum.com/bb/viewtopic.php?f=14%26amp;t=18099%26amp;hilit=cafe+36

LaGrange is suburb west of downtown.

Cafe 36

So according to the Yelp article, cafe 36 has now closed down?

shame if that is so, another victim of the worlds economy i guess!

It%26#39;s open - http://www.cafe36.com/

Oh ok-someone on yelp posted it had closed down?

we will try looking it up nearer august!

thanks!

Restaurants Near Westin Chicago River North

Looking a few good/reasonable restaurants near the Westin Chicago River North. Staying at the hotel for a conference, but want somewhere to have a good breakfast and dinner on the days no meal is provided.

Restaurants Near Westin Chicago River North

There are dozens of restaurants around your hotel. You won%26#39;t have any problem getting exactly the kind of food you would like at a reasonable price within walking distance from your hotel.

Restaurants Near Westin Chicago River North

www.chicagoreader.com has a great dining search tool. Use River North as your search area.

Near your hotel for breakfast:

Steve%26#39;s Deli

354 W. Hubbard

(312) 467-6868

Einsteins Bagels is just a block north of the hotel , excellent for both value and choice for breakfasts

A Mano is right across the street, Italian tapas, great salume platters and pizzas. Lunch or dinner. A few blocks west on Hubbard, Brasserie Jo. Rockit is even closer, for interesting bar food lunch and dinner. I%26#39;d do breakfast at Heaven on Seven at 111 N. Wabash (7th floor). It%26#39;s about six or seven blocks away but breakfast is cajun style, good and reasonable. There%26#39;s also a Corner Bakery at the corner of Wacker and Michigan that%26#39;s not too far.

To Transfer or Not to Transfer

Will be leaving Midway to go to Hotel Burnham and planning on taking the Orange line from the airport. Will it be quicker to stay on the Orange line until State/Lake or Randolph/Wabash or to Transfer to the Red line at Roosevelt to Lake? About how long do you think the quickest route will take?

To Transfer or Not to Transfer

It%26#39;s up to you, you are probably only talking about 3-5 mins difference in time. If you are not wanting to walk at all, transfer at Roosevelt to Red (Howard trains), to Washington.

If you don%26#39;t mind walking a little, just stay on the Orange line till Washington and Wells, its only 3-4 blocks from there.

To Transfer or Not to Transfer

Scratch that, Washington Stop is still under construction, you would want to get out at Lake, if you switch to the Redline.

The hotel is about 4 blocks south of the State/Lake station right on state street. Don%26#39;t transfer, stay on the orange line and just walk right down state.

If you do decide to transfer between lines, I recommend you do it at the Roosevelt stop. It%26#39;s a handicapped accessible stop, meaning it has elevators--which may help if you have alot of luggage.

Easiest is to stay on the Orange Line until State and Lake, exit and walk two blocks south on State Street to your hotel. You%26#39;ll get a good look at the fabulous Chicago Theater sign this way, and get something of a feel for the area. You can also exit at the earlier stop of Washington and Wells and walk four blocks east to State Street.

Help with hotel

Will be in Chicago May 1-6. 5 young adults nedding 2 rooms with 2 beds in each. Staying at the Intercontinental May 1-4. Here%26#39;s where I need help..I have reservations at the Affinia for the last 2 nights (4-6) for 149/per room/night. Can you guys help save me money by suggesting other places in the mag mile/river north area. i know the Affinia is a nice play to stay at but figured I give it a try and ask you guys.

Help with hotel

Hotwire is showing what appears to be the Embassy Suites Lakefront for $105/night. It%26#39;s slightly east of Michigan Ave on Columbus. You can match the Hotwire ammenities at - www.betterbidding.com/index.php鈥?/a>

Help with hotel

Hey there.

THis special will work for your dates and should save you a bit:

hotels.travelzoo.com/chicago-hotels/575208

Also, the Rafaello on hotels.com is the same price ($119/night) on hotels.com for a double room.

oily skin

Easy Click Travel

Is anyone familiar with easyclicktravel.com? I%26#39;ve never heard of it until today and stumbled upon a really cheap hotel price.

I%26#39;m planning a trip to Chicago in June and found a 4 night stay at the Crown Plaza for $127/night and according to all other websites its about $230/night. Is easyclicktravel.com a reliable website?

Thanks, Sara M.

Easy Click Travel

Here is an official blurb I found about ECT via a google search:

';Easy Click Travel contracts directly with over 30,000 travel suppliers. With this purchasing power they can provide the lowest prices in the travel industry today. EasyClick has a straight forward policy: ';What you see is what you pay.'; There are no hidden costs and no ';Sales Tactics.'; In other words, Easy Click Travel has no booking fees!';

It seems to me that ECT is similar to Expedia, Travelocity, etc.

Unless you hear testimony from someone else who has been burned, I would assume confidence in it. Here is their phone number if you wish to ask specific questions of ECT for yourself: 1 866 287 9803

Easy Click Travel

I haven%26#39;t heard any complaints with ECT, but keep in mind that there are hotels on there that say ';on request';, which means that they DO NOT currently have availability for that hotel.

Thanks for the responses!

I just wanted to clarify the hotel for a moment - do you mean the Crowne Plaza Metro at 733 W Madison? If so, and if you were planning on coming to Chicago for a few days of tourist activities, you may find the location a little bit farther away from the action than you wanted. Otherwise, it is in a fine neighborhood.

Wanted to mention it just in case...

Thank you for clarifying that! I hadn%26#39;t really looked into the hotel that much ... was considering it as a back up .. but will probably cross it off because of the location. Thank you so much for speaking up!

I used EasyClickTravel a couple years ago to get a fantastic rate at the Monaco that was far below what I could find anywhere else for a 2 night business trip. Interestingly, when I got my receipt it showed that it had gone in their system under some other name (not EasyClick), and then showed up with a rate about $40 lower than what I paid, which showed me the back end company and the actual rate they paid the Monaco.

Anyway, I had no problems but I was nervous, too, and called to confirm the week before and again the day before.

Given this specific hotel you probably won%26#39;t go this route anyway, but I%26#39;ll confirm the last post - call and verify with the hotel that your reservation is in place once you make it, preferably more than a week in advance if you can.

I%26#39;ve never booked with easy click travel, but with another third-party that seemed reputable and had a price that seemed too good to be true. The reservation never went through, and the hotel admitted to having had problems with them in the past. They worked with me to give me a good rate, which impressed me to no end, since they didn%26#39;t have to. We had a decent number of rooms, so the price made a big difference.

I don%26#39;t think there%26#39;s any harm booking with a site like this, as long as the hotel will tell you after the fact that yep, they%26#39;ve got your room.

Used easyclicktravel for a New Orleans hotel over New Years and the Sugar Bowl which was by far the cheapest price anywhere, including Priceline and Hotwire. It was one of their ';Mystery'; hotels where it gives you a star rating and a location, but using a little searching found it to be the Pere Marquette Renaissance. Within 1 day, the hotel itself had the reservation in their system and everything went exactly as planned.

Keep in mind that many hotels will match the lowest rate found on another site. Some will take an additional 25% off that price (Omni, Marriott brands...)!!!

It%26#39;s worth checking into.

Thanks for the responses!

Correction to my above post...

We used lastminutetravel.com for our New Orleans hotel, but I believe they are affiliated with easyclicktravel.

Sorry for the mixup.

Bars near Hard Rock Hotel

In town for just one night, what%26#39;s nearby for pubs or even live bands?

When is bar cutoff time on a Friday night in this city?

Thanks in advance for yr help!

Bars near Hard Rock Hotel

Check the club/music listings at www.chicagoreader.com and www.metromix.com

Jazz - www.andysjazzclub.com

Blues - www.buddyguys.com

Bars near Hard Rock Hotel

I believe it%26#39;s 3 a.m. for most bars. Some go a little longer.

Current Hotel Deals

$129-$159 - Omni Chicago

$118-$140 - Hard Rock

$119 - Hotel Monaco w/parking

$119 - Hotel Sax w/parking

http://hotels.travelzoo.com/chicago-hotels/

www.travel-ticker.com/Destination/Chicago

Bears Game - Transport To Airport After The Game

I will be in Chicago for the Bears / Lions game. I need to catch a 7:30pm flight. Is it easy enough to just hop on a train? Any suggestions or information?

Bears Game - Transport To Airport After The Game

You didn%26#39;t specify which airport. To O%26#39;hare - walk to the Roosevelt green line station. Get off at Clark/Lake. Transfer to a blue line train to O%26#39;hare. The trip should take around an hour-ish.

To Midway - walk to Roosevelt. Take an orange line train to Midway. That should take about 45 minutes.

www.transitchicago.com has a trip planner function on the home page.

Bears Game - Transport To Airport After The Game

O%26#39;Hare Airport ...

Thanks for the information ... it sounds like I should have enough time after the game to catch my flight ...

Tulips on Michigan

I%26#39;ve seen pictures of the tulips on Michigan and wondered if any will be blooming April 4-9th when we%26#39;ll be in Chicago, or is it still too early? Thanks.

Tulips on Michigan

April 16 - May 31. You might see the bulbs being planted when you are here, though.

The Lincoln Park Conservatory is currently having the Spring Flower Show and it will still be going until May 13.

Tulips on Michigan

May I ask if the tulips are *gone* from May 31st on? I would love to see them, but may not be visiting until early to mid-June. Thanks!

By late May or early June, the tulips will have been replaced by summer plantings. They are usually gorgeous, done by a top notch design firm. Since the plantings are still young in June, you will not get the same effect as in August.

Here%26#39;s a summer sampler:

http://www.gnmaa.com/Programs/Kick_offs.cfm

oily skin

Kentucky Derby

Might be headed to Chicago to place a wager on the ponies....I have never been to any of Chi. horse tracks...Best to go to an OTB or visit one of (and if so which one) the tracks. Driving is no issue in chicago for me so any of the OTB or tracks would be okay. If it is an OTB i would like to go downtown or close to it.

Thanks in advance.

Kentucky Derby

Downtown at State and Lake (next to the Chicago Theather) is an OTB. If you have the time, you can take Metra (NW Line) or drive out to Arlington Park. It is about 25 miles NW of downtown and they will simulcast the derby, espcially since they are owned by the same company as Churchill Downs.

Kentucky Derby

Downtown OTB - http://www.stretchrunchicago.com/

Nicest track in the area - www.arlingtonpark.com

Closer to downtown:

www.hawthorneracecourse.com

www.maywoodpark.com

Check out the web sites given previously for opening days for the track you want to visit. Have been to all of them numerous times and Arlington is the most beautiful but farthest for someone coming from Michigan. Arlington opens May 1. Hawthorne must close this week. They take turns.

Why not come on down for the Kentucky Derby!!!

Only 5 hours from Chicago, which by the way, is my favorite getaway destination. The Ky Derby is a blast, as is the Ky Oaks, the Friday before, when the fillies run. It truly is a fun experience.

Arlington Park opens for Live Racing on Derby weekend. Not only would you get to see the simulcast of the Kentucky Derby you can watch the real thing on Churchill Downs sister track. IMO Arlington is just as nice as Churchill Downs and in a much better neighborhood.

Plus, for the past few years, they have been giving away a Derby glass if you are one of the first people through the gates. My wife and I have gone the last couple years on Derby Saturday. It is a good time, and the crowds are large but not overwhelming.

I%26#39;ll second Thomas123 suggestion. Oaks Day and Derby Day are nice times here in Louisville.

Traveling through Chicago

I am looking for a decent and not too expensive hotel a 1/2 before Chicago to spend the night before we have to get up early to drive through it on our way to WI. Does anyone have any suggestion?

Traveling through Chicago

What does ';a 1/2 before Chicago '; mean? Halfway? A half-mile? A half hour?

What road are you taking to Chicago, and where in Wisconsin are you headed? What is your budget?

Lurking!!!! Thanks!!!

I always check TA. I don%26#39;t often post unless I can%26#39;t find answers through previous posts. I got what I needed just through others questions, but Thanks to all the Chicago regulars!

I%26#39;m off tomorrow morning, wait now it%26#39;s this morning. I even just finished packing, and have to be up in 5 or 6 hours. Yikes!

So looking forward to my First Chicago trip. Going to the Cubs game tomorrow night....yes, against the Marlins, then the rest of the weekend will be spent being a girly, girl with my sisters. Shopping, food, and shopping!

Thanks for all the good info!

Juli

ticketnest and ticketluck.com

anyone use ticketnest and ticketluck.com to order tickets for Wicked?

ticketnest and ticketluck.com

Nope. If you%26#39;re looking for a legitimate ticket broker - www.goldcoasttickets.com

ticketnest and ticketluck.com

I have had great experience with ticketloot.com. I have been using them for 2 years now.

http://www.TicketLoot.com

I used this one for many times and found a quick and great response... have a look and feel the difference that I had...

www.onlineticketspot.com/theaters/Wicked.php

Yes - I got scammed by Ticket Luck (www.TicketLuck.com) which is also owned by the same company as Ticket Nest (www.TicketNest.com). They charged me OVER DOUBLE what the tickets were worth. They are just a site that focuses on getting good search engine rankings and the tickets are actually sold through distributors so they point fingers at each other if you need any help.

AVOID TICKET LUCK AND TICKET NEST!!!

Fronteira Kitchen and Topo

Can you eat at the bar in either of these places? How big is the bar area? Does anyone prefer one of Rick%26#39;s places over the other?

Fronteira Kitchen and Topo

Granted that I visited Topolobampo for lunch in March and Frontera for dinner in August, I much preferred the food at Frontera. Wait staff was far superior at Topo (my experience). Ambiance, while different, was a push...

Fronteira Kitchen and Topo

I%26#39;ve eaten at the bar at Frontera. It%26#39;s been a while, so no idea the size.

The thing that you have to understand is that these are not big restaurants at all. The bar area is a reasonable size, but it does get very crowded (at least at Frontera; I have not been to Topo).

good to know. Instead of waiting for a table I was hoping I could just go in there and eat at the bar. If it%26#39;s a small bar it will probably be just as difficult to get a seat.

Topo takes reservations through opentable.com, and Frontera Grill takes limited reservations directly for parties of two or smaller. You will have to call to find out if they have anything for your dates...

I think there%26#39;s only one bar and it%26#39;s right there when you walk in. The bar seats about 12-15 (I think?) and I believe there are also some little ledges with stools that you can eat at scattered around the bar area. If you%26#39;re going prime dining time on a Friday or Saturday, the bar will be crowded, but when I%26#39;ve gone later (esp on a weeknight) I%26#39;ve always been able to sit right down. As far as which to choose, you can%26#39;t go wrong, in my opinion. The food is great at both restaurants, it%26#39;s just what you%26#39;re in the mood for. Topo is white table cloth and the food is much more gourmet. I love eating there...but if you want a more casual atmosphere and more down to earth (but still inventive) food, I%26#39;d choose Frontera. Frontera is a lot louder, too, if you%26#39;re sensitive to that.

United Center Parking/Transportation

Hi, I have a friend that is going to tommrows Bulls Game, and he would like to know two things. Are you allowed to park on the Streets around the United Center or are residents only allowed to park on the streets? What would you recomend in terms alterntive transportation a bus or a cab? Please let me know and I will tell him, thank you.

United Center Parking/Transportation

I can%26#39;t answer you question, but I have two thoughts:

1) Allowed to park is not the same as able to find parking. That%26#39;s at least as important, so hopefully someone can comment, but based on what I%26#39;ve seen of parking near other pro sports venues, street parking will be difficult unless your friend knows where outside the main areas to look.

2) Where is your friend coming from? That%26#39;s key when looking at other transportation options.

United Center Parking/Transportation

Directley from the Ohare Airport hotel.

If your friend is driving, park in the designated United Center parking lots. Just follow the signs.

This bus is convenient to/from the United Center. transitchicago.com/riding_cta/busroute.aspx鈥?/a> - refer to the trip planner function at www.transitchicag.com

Catching a cab after the game may be difficult.

One thing I learned living near the UC - park on Harrison Street, right off of Damen, PLENTY of parking on corner %26amp; walk the 4 blocks to the UC.

You can take the Damen bus North from Harrison, but if its close to game time walking may be faster!

If you%26#39;re coming from out-of-town, just park in one of the regular lots. Don%26#39;t mess with parking on the street in areas you aren%26#39;t familiar with.

What streets are you allowed to park on? And what streets can%26#39;t you park on? Please let me know thank you.

I personally park in the lots on the one or two times a year I go to a Bulls game. I have stopped at the Billy Goat before NCAA games and left my car around there. The blunt truth is that despite gentrification moving in, the areas right around the UC are not places I would park my car even if it were allowed, which I%26#39;m not sure it is. One poster suggested parking in the med school area around Harrison and Damen and walking from there. Absent finding something in the West Loop, you have had more than one person suggest using the lots. I suppose if you want you could take the Blue Line in from Cumberland or River Road parking lot. I believe it runs down the Eisenhower and stops at Damen but would check that on transitchicago.com. Alternatively, you could take it into the Loop and then take the Madison bus. You could also park in a lot in the WestLoop/Greektown area and take the Madison bus from there. So far no one has suggested that you park on the street in the immediate area of the United Center. Do with that info what you will.

There%26#39;s a reason we don%26#39;t suggest street parking. The area around the United Center isn%26#39;t that great. We don%26#39;t want you walking in unfamiliar areas.

More Difficult than I thought!

Hi Everyone! I have been %26#39;lurking%26#39; for a few months. I was originally supposed to come to your fair city for a week, but due to my daughter%26#39;s Sweet 16 taking up loads of $$$, I was going to cancel.

I am forty-something and pretty adventurous, travel alone all the time, so I was not thrilled to give up my only vacation this year! I am coming May 2 and 3 and have my CUBS/Marlins ticket for the 2nd -- Woo Hoo! Booked the Palmer House Hilton on Priceline for $75 and Spirit Airlines round trip from FLL for $150.

I arrive Saturday Morning at O%26#39;Hare in time to get to Wrigley Field for Wrigleyville Dogs before the game (have to decide between a dog and an italian beef!).

anyway, my dilemma is: There are too many choices for just a few days! Here is my %26#39;loose%26#39; itinerary! I would be thankful for any suggestions!

After the baseball game:

Check in Hotel

Dinner at Quartino OR Kiki%26#39;s Bistro

Rush Street Scene - Jilly%26#39;s seems like my place (?)

Stop at Buddy Guy%26#39;s (will this be worth it?)

Sunday:

Walk to Navy Pier

Riverwalk/River Cruise

Billy Goat%26#39;s for lunch

Chicago Chamber Orchestra (3pm)

Call Pizzeria Uno for a ';go'; order

Airport and home :(

I can already tell I won%26#39;t have enough time, but a girl can try, right?

thanks in advance for all help!

Lisa

More Difficult than I thought!

Lisa,

I can comment on those I have done:

1. Quartino%26#39;s I have been twice and love the place. Really good food and wine with cheap prices. I got reservations at Open Table .com, and it worked out great. I am going again this May when in town.

2. Jillys is OK. it is small and rather cramped, but good music.

3.Navy Pier doesn%26#39;t thrill me much. It does have a great view, but moslty tourist shops

4.I did the Wendella river cruise and really enjoyed it. Very relaxing and informative.

5.Billy Goat is just OK. The food is nothing special. For a better burger I would go to Boston Blackies.

6.Uno pizzia is good also. They have a smaller size for lunch.

Hope you have a great time.

More Difficult than I thought!

Just a heads up - ';Rush Street Scene'; and Buddy Guy%26#39;s are at opposite sides of downtown. If you%26#39;re looking for blues near your dinner choices - www.bluechicago.com

Agree - skip Navy Pier.

Unless you are going to take one of the river/lake cruises that leave from Navy Pier, I%26#39;d skip it. As mentioned previously, it is mostly a tourist-trap mall. If you do go, the Ferris wheel might be worthwhile while you wait for your cruise departure.

I agree that the Billy Goat Tavern doesn%26#39;t have the best burgers, but it might be worth it to go to the original location under Michigan Ave.

Quartino, yes!! I recommend any of the pizzas, the polenta, the tomato soup, the cavatelli, and the Gran gelato dish. Also, the house red wine is cheap and good!

Jilly%26#39;s is small, but the music is all in the Sinatra style which makes it my fav bar. Also, no cover charge.

River cruise was definitely worth it.

Pizzeria Uno is all it%26#39;s built up to be. Don%26#39;t leave without trying some deep dish!

I love Chicago dogs and Italian beef about equally. Perhaps someone can speak to which is the better option when dining at Wrigley?

Have a great time!

Thanks everyone! Anyone want to join me for food since I can only eat so much!!! LOL...

Will be sure to do a trip report upon my return!

Lisa

I%26#39;d go to Kiki%26#39;s in a heartbeat over Quartino. Q isn%26#39;t bad (as other posters seem to like it) but Kiki%26#39;s is an authentic country french bistro with lovely food and good prices. Great wine list. I actually would not skip Navy Pier. The inside is wagons of things for sale--but maybe you will like some of the things they have. It%26#39;s not a bunch of trinkets but some pretty painted scarfs, fudge shop, wooden toys, Irish imports, etc. Walking down the pier on the outside is really nice as you stroll by the water. When you get to the end, the view of the chicago skyline is amazing. Have lunch at Reza%26#39;s--request a window seat so you get a nice view of the lake. Or they have an outdoor cafe as well if the weather is good. Also there is the stained glass exhibit, several rooms filled with stained glass art and windows...really lovely. And free. And the Crystal Room upstairs is an indoor garden. Just sit and relax. If you aren%26#39;t afraid of heights, take a whirl on the ferris wheel for more interesting views. It%26#39;s a fun stroll for a couple of hours.

';Have lunch at Reza%26#39;s--request a window seat so you get a nice view of the lake.';

It%26#39;s Riva - not Reza%26#39;s

Oh yes you are right...I attended a wedding at Reza%26#39;s this weekend so I think I have that place on the brain. For the record, Reza%26#39;s is nice too--persian food on west ontario...not Navy Pier.

I%26#39;m curious to know what you%26#39;re doing with your overnight bag, assuming you%26#39;re bringing some type of bag. It sounds like you%26#39;re going directly to the game from the airport.

LOL Warrior!

I have a purse that is a backpack (very small) and I packed for 2 days in Philly last year in it and carried it with me...

I pack VERY light and if I do need something (last year in Philly I had a mustard machine explode on me at Citizen%26#39;s Bank Park), I just pick something up and MAIL home anything I would have to carry...

The hotel has shower soap and lotion and shampoo, which I could also purchase if I needed it...

Lisa

winning Priceline bid for Hyatt McDonald's Campus Oakbrook

Can anyone identify a recent winning Priceline bid for Hyatt McDonald%26#39;s Campus Oakbrook? Thanks!

winning Priceline bid for Hyatt McDonald's Campus Oakbrook

http://www.betterbidding.com/ for Priceline %26amp; Hotwire bidding tips and results.

winning Priceline bid for Hyatt McDonald's Campus Oakbrook

Hi. Thanks so much for responding. I see from the site you mentioned that there was a winning bid of $54 but it was 11/08, so thought someone might have a more recent one. Thanks.

nightlife for college kids

hey all,

i was just wondering if someone would be able to give me a heads up in regards to places to go out at night.

looking for either bars or clubs.

any help would be greatly appreciated.

thanks!

nightlife for college kids

also, we will be there from May 7th - 10th.

nightlife for college kids

Check www.chicagoreader.com and www.metromix.com for ideas.

Look around Depaul University in Lincoln Park. Main streets to pursue are Lincoln north of Armitage, Diversey close to Clark both directions.

ZB

I believe the legal drinking age in Toronto is 19, but here in Chicago (and all of the U.S.) it%26#39;s 21. If some of these college kids are under 21, they won%26#39;t even be able to get into many bars/clubs.

thank you very much for the help.. its greatly appreciated..

luckily we are all over 21!

Lincoln Ave by DePaul and Clark St. just south of Wrigley are your best bets for groups of several bars alll very near one another.

Jillys Bar Oak/Rush Street.

We are coming to Chicago soon and I%26#39;ve read recently about this place and wondered what its like, has anyone been there? Would you reccomend it for a reasonably priced meal with good music - I like The Sinatra type stuff and think its high time my grown up kids -who will be with us, found out what decent music is like! Would we need to book a table in advance? I%26#39;ve looked for it on opentable.com but can%26#39;t find it. I%26#39;m guessing that since theres no cover charge the prices may be a bit on the expensive side to make up for it, or am I wrong?

Jillys Bar Oak/Rush Street.

Jilly%26#39;s is just a bar--they might serve some bar food--I don%26#39;t know for sure but it%26#39;s not a restaurant at all--it%26#39;s a frank sinatra/piano bar. It%26#39;s crowded, loud, small, has a tiny dance floor and it%26#39;s a whole lot of fun. If you get there early, you could possibly get a table, but there won%26#39;t be anybody there as it%26#39;s a late night place. Certainly go in and check it out, have a drink and a dance but it%26#39;s not the type of place where you would spend an evening.

Jillys Bar Oak/Rush Street.

You might consider dinner at Twin Anchors. This is in Old Town. The only reason I suggest it is historical, it is where Frank used to hang out. It has good ribs, good bar, no music, absolutely no dancing. Next to Jilly%26#39;s is Back Room Jazz Bar. That is a good place for Jazz. Also good is Andys and Green Mill. Sorry if this is a bit off from Jillys but it is a loud kind of place. If you want dinner and music you could also try Green Dolphin.

ZB

My wife and I love Jillys for the Sinatra music, people watching, and the small area for dancing which puts you in close quarters with other couples.

There is also no cover charge, although drinks are still expensive just like every other bar in downtown.

Drawbacks are: Jilly%26#39;s is small. If you walk in after 9 or 9:30 with four people, you may be out of luck finding a suitable table. Most of the 4+ seat tables have ';reserved'; on them, which either means they are indeed reserved in advance, or the doorkeeper is just waiting for someone to slip him $20 for the privilege.

Feel free to check it out. No charge to come in. Have one drink, sit for 30 minutes, and if you don%26#39;t like it, just slip out and try another bar on Rush St.

Have fun!

Thanks everyone for the advice. I think maybe we%26#39;ll eat elsewhere then just go to Jillys for a drink and see how it goes, its nice to go somewhere with atmosphere but not too crowded - yes i know i want the best of both worlds!

I like the sound of the Twin Anchors,I %26#39;ve also read about it in some guide books. Since its near the part of town we%26#39;re staying will certainly give it try. I hope its as good as Carsons for ribs as I%26#39;ve been there twice and loved it!

Chicago for live music

Headed to Chicago tomorrow (Sunday). Will stay at the Omni. Are there any great places for music on Sunday night nearby? Any good steak restaraunts near the Omni?

Thanks.

Chicago for live music

Check the music listings at www.chicagoreader.com

Near your hotel - www.bluechicago.com

www.andysjazzclub.com

Chicago for live music

Please do a search for steakhouse in this forum. All are good. You%26#39;ll find numerous posts.

what type of music? Blues? Jazz? Rock? Live?

Jazz or Blues

Best bet: Benny Green at the Jazz Showcase in the south Loop, a short cab ride from the Omni. Shows are at 4, 8 and 10.

Chicago Omni Hotel questions

Hi -anyone know about the $25 food %26amp; beverage per day per room credit that is being offered? I was curious if it included room service.

Also - anyone know if the hotel offers refrigerators and at what cost?

I%26#39;ve tried emailing Omni several times but they never respond.

Thanks

Chicago Omni Hotel questions

try ahayden@omnihotels.com

not sure if they will respond, but it is a real person at least

Chicago Omni Hotel questions

Unless it%26#39;s changed recently, it%26#39;s a suites hotel so it has refrigerators in the rooms, part of the room rate.

My experience is that most places don%26#39;t respond to emails. Try calling the main number; they could at least direct you to someone who knows the answers.

It is a suite hotel but the rooms do not have refrigerators and microwaves like traditional suite hotels. Even on their website, it says that refrigerators are available on request for a fee.

Oops, sorry. I stayed there a few years ago and fridges were in the 2 rooms we had with no extra charge. I didn%26#39;t realize it had changed policy.

oily skin

cubs game and second city improv

We have never been to Chicago and we would like to see a cubs game %26amp; second city. what location would be best. Any other must see things would be helpful also, thanks.

cubs game and second city improv

One suggestion that I can make is to take in a Cubs game and stick around the neighborhood for ImprovOlympic (I.O). That is about 1/2 a block south of Wrigley on Clark. Same idea as Second City.

Also, as far a hotels to stay at, not much around Wrigley to stay at, but if you keep around State St. either Downtown or River North, you will be near the Red Line %26#39;L%26#39; train and that is easy to get to the Wrigleyville area.

cubs game and second city improv

';Must see things'; are different for everyone. It depends on your particular interests. www.explorechicago.org is a good site to do some research.

www.transitchicago.com for public transit information. Second City and Wrigley Field are accessible via public transit.

Theater Listings

Is there a central website to check theater listings in July in Chicago?

Theater Listings

I always use this

events.chicagoreader.com/chicago/EventSearch鈥?/a>

under 21 friendly bar close to Wrigley

6 of us going to Wrigley Saturday-Tuesday. One of us is 1 week short of turning 21. Any bars here that allow under 21 people? Maybe a bar that serves food (bar/restaurant) Not looking for a restaurant where you can get a drink with your meal, but more of a bar with bar food. Want to keep the bar atmosphere if possible. It%26#39;s not like I%26#39;m bringing a 6yr old with me. lol Thanks for the help. As a matter of fact, I can use the same info for bars near our hotel as well. Staying at Intercontinental and Affinia.

under 21 friendly bar close to Wrigley

The bars around Wrigley check IDs at the door.

under 21 friendly bar close to Wrigley

Try Goose Island as it is more of a restaurant than just a bar:

gooseisland.com/pages/…66.php

Goose Island will definitely work!

IIRC Wilde Bar on Broadway will seat you without checking ID%26#39;s as it%26#39;s a bit more of a restaurant than a bar, but has a bar atmosphere. Very good food too. But, if you go later in the night (ie not during dinner time) you will get ID%26#39;d at the door.

I have seen people bring their kids to several Wrigley bars. Yakees and Goose Island for sure. I am not sure if it is okay to bring in a 10 year old but not a 20 year old.

www.cubhater.com/Wrigleyville%20Guide.html

Where to park near Embassy Suites Lakefront

Staying at Embassy Suites Lakefront, 511 N Columbus Drive. Any suggestions on parking nearby?

Thanks much!

Where to park near Embassy Suites Lakefront

I live a block from there and take it from me there is not much you can do. Some public lots are a little cheaper.

Where to park near Embassy Suites Lakefront

www.millenniumgarages.com/Source/Home.aspx

What you%26#39;ll save on parking will cover the short cab ride to your hotel. Or you can walk.

oily skin

Catch 35 or McCormick & Schmick

Before anyone laughs at my question, let me explain. We wanted to go for seafood on our first night in Chicago, but we%26#39;re just arriving that evening so someplace relatively casual is preferred.

I noticed both restaurants have locations relatively close by on Wacker (we%26#39;re staying at the Blackstone Renaissance). I%26#39;ve been to other McCormick locations and, while a chain, I%26#39;ve found it to be reasonably priced (especially as we%26#39;ll be going for a more expensive meal the next night) and, if not spectacular, fairly consistent and dependable. However, if Catch 35 is as good or better and within the same relative price range, I wouldn%26#39;t mind trying a local place.

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

Catch 35 or McCormick %26amp; Schmick

IMO - a better option downtown:

Shaw%26#39;s Crab House

www.shawscrabhouse.com

21 E Hubbard St

(312) 527-2722

Catch 35 or McCormick %26amp; Schmick

If you%26#39;re at the Blackstone Renaissance, you%26#39;re not that close to those restaurants...maybe about 10 or 12 blocks. The Chicago Downtown Renaissance is the one that%26#39;s near those two. That being said, I prefer Catch 35. Tho it%26#39;s a little more formal, the food is a bit more interesting. Not sure where to get fish by the Blackstone, but the restaurant that%26#39;s in that hotel, Mercat, is great spanish tapas, loud, lively, casual...tho not cheap.

Thanks for the suggestions!

My wife and I used to eat at M%26amp;S all the time but it has really gone down hill the last few years.

http://chicagovisitor.net/

Award Winning Improv Comedy: Mission Improvable

Just wanted to let people coming to Chicago or people on the forum a notice about this Improv Show now in Chicago. I have seen Second City, ImprovOlympic and a host of other improv shows. This one is great, very different.

This group does improv comedy in the style of ';Whose Line is it Anyway'; and MTV%26#39;s ';Wild N Out improv.';

This show is a faced paced improv show that relies on audience participation and is completely improvised on the spot. Their website says they have performed at Lalapalooza and at the Chicago Improv Festival.

My friend saw it as well and she said it was great. She saw them back in college as well, they do perform at about 100 colleges a year.

The show is also closer to downtown for visitors staying there and the theater they are at also has some great shows I have seen. When I saw them the show was on a Saturday, at 9:30pm.

Chicago Center for the Performing Arts

777 N. Green St, Chicago

312-733-6000

www.theaterland.com

Frank Sinatra? Comedy club?

My husband is a big Frank Sinatra fan...are there any old hang outs worth visiting? Also - any comedy club worth going to on a Wednesday or Thursday night?

Frank Sinatra? Comedy club?

Frank Sinatra loved the Pump Room on North State Parkway. He also loved Twin Anchors Rib place on North Sedgewick. I think he has a booth at Twin Anchors. Even without the allure of Frank, both establishments are worth a visit. For comedy in Chicago, go to the legendary Seocond City on Wells street. It%26#39;s not stand up in as much as it is skits like saturday night live. I hear that this particular review is heavy on local politics vs. national so if you don%26#39;t know who Rod Blago is, you probably won%26#39;t get alot of jokes. For stand up comedy, down the street is Zanies. However, I have gone a few times to Zanies and have not laughed. However, I laugh all the time at Carolines in TImes Square so it%26#39;s not me.

Frank Sinatra? Comedy club?

Absolutely exactly as HappiTraveler describes it. Twin Anchors is ribs but an old Sinatra hangout. Many pictures and stories on the wall. Have a drink at the bar, enjoy the ribs. Very Chicago. In Old Town. Get a T Shirt...absolutely no dancing.

ZB

Frank Sinatra connection-Jilly%26#39;s Piano Bar

centerstagechicago.com/music/clubs/jillys-pi…

Green Mill is uptown is an old Chicago landmark, also the bar in the Chicago movie ';Theif';

If you are looking for comedy you have the old haunts of Second City, IO (formerly Improv Olympic).

I recently saw a show called Mission Improvable, show resembles ';Whose Line is it Anway'; really great show, very funny. Show was at the Center Center for performing arts I think.

Have Fun

www.theaterland.com

www.secondcity.com

Green Mill is in uptown just off the Lawrence Red Line stop.

best area to stay?

need advise on best area to stay... i won%26#39;t have a car and only depending on public transportation %26amp; by foot. looking for a place that has good restaurants, cool shops %26amp; lively night life

trying to hotwire a 4 star hotelroom.

what%26#39;s your vote? :

1. ';magnificent mile-streeterville';

or

2. ';north michigan ave-water tower-north coast';

best area to stay?

You should be happy with either. If I had to choose, looking at their map, I might try ';mag mile'; first.

Looking for a 2nd driver to help me drive to Vegas

Hi

I am planing to drive from chicago to vegas at 5/8/09 and i am looking for a 2nd driver. i am going to drive with my car (sadan) and i want to make it there by driving and sleeping while we go.

if you are intrested and have a valid DL please email me sendiman@gmail.com

Thanks.

O' Hare Airport - Walk From Terminal 1 to Terminal 2?

I%26#39;m arriving in T2 about ten minutes before a friend touches down in T1. Is this a (relatively) close walk? We want to share a cab but if it%26#39;s too much hassle we%26#39;ll get separate rides.

Thanks for any/all input. Muchly appreciated.

O' Hare Airport - Walk From Terminal 1 to Terminal 2?

Easily walkable. If you don%26#39;t feel like walking, take the free airport transit train. But the terminals are adjacent to each other, so unless you have lots of luggage or mobility issues, shouldn%26#39;t be a problem.

O' Hare Airport - Walk From Terminal 1 to Terminal 2?

The airport tram is outside security so if you have to claim checked bags, you%26#39;d have to walk outside or take the airport tram. The only indoor connection between the terminals is inside the secure area.

A cab into the central city will be around $50. You can catch the CTA Blue Line from the baggage level of either terminal and exit at Clark/Lake for $2.25, then grab a cab to your hotel (or perhaps walk) for only a few dollars more.

If you%26#39;ll be relying on public transit while you%26#39;re here, purchase transit passes that allow unlimited rides and your cost will be less.

This is easily walkable and the two terminals are seemlessly connected. It should be a short walk. You would actually probably walk further going to the tram than walking it.

Terminal one is the first on the traffic loop outside the airport. I would meet there as it might be the fastest to get a cab and get out of the airport.

UA operates a bus from Gate E3 (Terminal 2) to C9 (Terminal 1). This might be convenient if your friend is arriving at the C councourse of T1 and you want to meet at his/her gate.

That bus won%26#39;t work if you have to pick up luggage, but might if you%26#39;re just doing carry-on. If you%26#39;re picking up luggage, you will still have to do that in the terminal you land in. I wouldn%26#39;t worry, the terminals as several of us have said are adjacent, and you should have no trouble meeting up and then heading downtown together. There are monitors that will tell you whether the flights have landed and which luggage area to head to.

excellent replies, people!

seriously, many thanks. no mobility issues. carry on luggage only. so it sounds like i should be able to walk over to T1, check arrivals to find his gate, and be good to go. sound right?

Sounds right. You don%26#39;t even need to go outside. The terminals are connected behind security.

so, the monitors will list the gate his plane has landed at? (stupid question maybe, but some airports do not and i have to figure out where to track him down)

Yes.

oily skin

breakfast brunch question...forgot rest. name

please jog my memory..

what is the name of the very popular, and usually crowded brunch restaurant on michigan ave? its on the corner of a block...has an elevator, windows facing michigan on the 2nd level....

also, i went to another really great breakfast place in downtow, very low key, served mimosas, apparently a lot of famous people had been there. not too fancy, but neat inside and comfortable...hmm probably a million places like this in chicago, now that i think about it...lol any idea?

thanks :-)

breakfast brunch question...forgot rest. name

Doh!! Grand Lux ;o)

any ideas on the 2nd one? loved it.

also love tempo cafe.

trying to recommend some breakfast spots to a friend

breakfast brunch question...forgot rest. name

Possibly the Pump Room?

just found out, its wishbone

Hotel near Chicago

I am looking for a hotel about a 1/2 from Chicago just for one night. I%26#39;ll be going through Chicago on my way to WI early in the morning about 4:30-5 that is why I need something close. Anyone know of any? Let me know the bad ones also!

Hotel near Chicago

Are your driving through? What direction are you coming from? Keep in mind, parking downtown is expensive - up to $50/night. Do you need to stay downtown?

There are a couple of hotel deal that include parking here - http://hotels.travelzoo.com/chicago-hotels/

Hotel near Chicago

Are you looking for something a 1/2 hour north of Chicago or south of Chicago?

I%26#39;m a little confused. Are you planning to leave Chicago at 4:30-5 a.m. to continue your trip? Where in Wisconsin are you heading, i.e. Milwaukee and points north, in which case you might want to look along I-94, or Madison and points north and west of there? As a previous poster mentioned, are you looking for a hotel half an hour before Chicago or past Chicago?

We are headed toward Fon Du Lac, Wisconsin so we want to stay a half hour before Chicago coming in on I90 west. So far the only thing we%26#39;ve found is a Hilton in Oak Lawn.

Keep in mind a half hour before Chicago not in. I want to go through Chicago around 4:30-5 to beat the traffic so I want a hotel that is only a half hour or so away from Chicago.

Go to hotels.com and use the ';show hotels on a map'; feature. You can trace your route and figure out what stops will work for you. There are a few hotels in Hammond; check the Indiana board. Once you cross the Illinois/Indiana line, you are in Chicago, and there are very few hotels on the south side of Chicago. You could go west to the Lansing area, but this would take you out of your way and shift you towards the 294 tollway. It%26#39;s better to keep going through the city in the evening.

It seems you are going through downtown Chicago and taking 90/94 north, but you will switch to 94 on the north side of Chicago and then to 294 on the ';spur'; near Northbrook, and take that through Milwaukee. You may want to look at Skokie, the first large suburb north of the city along 94, or Deerfield, 15-20 minutes farther north, which has a cluster of hotels; all are easily accessible to the highway. Check IDOT and the Wisconsin DOT for construction updates; you will encounter a few work areas on your route.

Inn of Chicago - Magnificent Mile???

Does anyone have any information on the quality of this hotel? I%26#39;m looking at the Westin, Renaissance %26amp; Inn of Chicago for end of May. The Inn has a great deal right now. Thanks for any help!

Inn of Chicago - Magnificent Mile???

It is a good location for tourists, right off of Mich Ave. Used to be a Best Western. I would check reviews on TA.

Walking to Navy Pier

We are going to be staying on Dearborn St. Is it possible to walk to the Navy Pier. Are there sidewalks all the way.

Walking to Navy Pier

Grand Ave runs east/west across downtown. You can map out directions here - http://www.hopstop.com/?city=chicago

Walking to Navy Pier

Dearborn--what address? -you can walk east on many streets that take you to the lake that will take you to the pier.

We are staying at the Springhill Suites 410 N Dearborn. I checked it out on hopstop, I am wondering about sidewalks under N. Lake Shore Dr. Are there any? I am assuming you cross under it.

You will cross underneath Lake Shore Drive. You could also take the Riverwalk most of the way there, which will avoid having to cross streets.

Thanks everyone!

Another option is to check out the trolley map to see if it stops near your hotel. We utilized this when we stayed at the Hatmpon Inn %26amp; Suites on Illinois St. It took right to Navy Pier. Hope they stop near your hotel. Was a great way to get around.

coachusa.com/info/…cs.chicagomap.asp

The #29 bus goes from State and Illinois to Navy Pier. You can walk down Illinois but it goes under a lot of streets and is not pleasant. So walk over to Grand and head East.

I think the free trolley service has been discontinued by the city as part of budget cuts.

The trolley mentioned above is not free. The city did discontinue its free trolley service. Navy Pier runs a free trolley service that goes up and down Grand and Illinois between the Pier and State Street.

www.navypier.com/visit_us/pub_trans.html

Naperville wedding

My friend is getting married the beginning of June in Naperville and I am trying to figure out where my family and I can stay that is close, but not too expensive - maybe around $150/night. My husband and I have 3 children (9, 6 and almost 2) and we like to have a little room to spread out if possible. We have stayed at many Embassy Suites in the past and like those, but are not familiar with this suburb of Chicago. We don%26#39;t need to stay in Naperville, but would like something fairly close. Thanks for the help!

Naperville wedding

Use hotels.com or similar site and search for properties in Oakbrook, or Downers Grove, IL. Since you like ES - 鈥ilton.com/en_US/鈥ndex.do

Naperville wedding

In my opinion, the nicest hotel in the Naperville area is the Hyatt Lisle. It%26#39;s quite easy to land it on Priceline for about $35-40 - it%26#39;s about the only 3.5 star property that comes up in the Lisle/Naperville zone. The rooms are nice - they all have a separate sitting area and while not a suite, per se, they are a little better than a hotel room with just beds and a chair %26amp; desk.

The closest Embassy Suites is in Lombard - probably a 10-15 minute drive to Naperville.

There is a Marriott Suites in Downers Grove that you may like. It%26#39;s just west of the Embassy Suites in Lombard. Maybe the midpoint between the ES and the Hyatt Lisle cited in other posts above.

Naperville is a really big suburb - very spread out. Do you know where the wedding is? That would help - there are many hotels that will fit your bill.

I hear good things about the Hotel Arista on Rt 59 and I-88. Located on the northwest side of Naperville.

It%26#39;s a new hotel, opened in 2008.

The restaurant, Sugartoad, has received some great reviews as well.

You should try the Staybridge suites in Aurora, its located on Route 59 and only minutes from Naperville. Like Embassey suites you can have one or 2 bedroomed suites for a very good price. I have stayed here when I first moved to the area for over two weeks and its very good.

Hotels near red line, north of Wrigley

I%26#39;m trying to find a hotel within walking distance of the red line that is north of Wrigley. Any suggestions or websites that can help me out with this search?

Thanks in advance.

Hotels near red line, north of Wrigley

Try hotels in Evanston that are near the Purple Line. It connects with the Red Line at Howard Street. Stay away from hotels on Sheridan Road in Chicago.

Hotels near red line, north of Wrigley

thanks for the suggestion.

how long does it take to ride the L from Evanston to downtown?

Hypothesis: You are driving from MN for a game @ Wrigley and want to stop short of Chicago. Is this true?

From downtown Evanston to downtown Chicago - about an hour.

Taking the family to Chicago. Might go to a game, might not. I%26#39;m wanting to stay away from downtown hotels to save money.

Thanks.

Give your dates and number of people. Many posters here track hotel deals. There are many out there now, unless it%26#39;s a big convention week.

June 25-28.

2 adults, 2 kids (4 and 6 years old).

Several deals here - http://hotels.travelzoo.com/chicago-hotels/

If you can%26#39;t find a deal in the city, don%26#39;t be limited to hotels on the Red/Purple CTA line. You could also look in the O%26#39;hare/Rosemont area and take the CTA blue line downtown to Loop. There is also a shuttle bus from the blue line to Wrigley @ I believe the Addison stop between O%26#39;hare and Loop.

Also check rates at the Hampton Inn in Skokie. Free parking/breakfast/indoor pool. 10 minutes to the CTA yellow line train station.

oily skin

Hotel Recommendations

We have stayed at the James before and really liked it, but would like to stay somewhere different in the same area. If we liked the James, does anyone have other suggestions that are similar?

Hotel Recommendations

We have 3 nights at Ambassador East hotel for $96.49 + tax in late June.

M

Hotel Recommendations

The Embassy Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites, Four Points Sheraton, and Allerton are in the area.

The James is an upscale boutique hotel that is a step up from the standard chain hotels. I%26#39;d suggest looking at the Sofitel, Dana, Sutton Place, Felix, or Conrad.

pgo is spot on here.

I%26#39;d also add the Talbott and Affinia to the list, and if you want to stretch your area a bit, the Monaco...

Midway to Union Station

Hi!

My SW flight gets into Chicago at 11:30 am. I want to catch the 1:05 pm Amtrak train to Milwaukee.

Will I have enough time to make the train? Should I take a cab to Union station or the CTA rail? First time doing this, so advice is appreciated!

Thanks!

Midway to Union Station

If you land on time and just have carry on bags, you can get to the orange line, get off at Quincy and Wells downtown and either walk or take a quick cab to Union station. That should take you less than an hour so you can do it. But if your plane is delayed, you will have to cab all the way from Midway to make it.

Midway to Union Station

Depending on your schedule/budget - Megabus also operates from Union Station to Milwaukee. http://www.megabus.com/us/

Buy Euros in Chicago

I am going to Italy and would like to buy some Euros here rather than at FCO airport. Any ideas for the best rates?

Regards

Al

Buy Euros in Chicago

Best exchange rate is to just use the ATM at FCO in Rome. Here, you need to go somewhere like Chase HQ Bank (Madison and Dearborn) as very few branches deal with foreign currency, or the American Express Travel Store on Ohio (or Ontario?) just east of Michigan Ave.

If by chance you bank at USAA (military veterans), they%26#39;re excellent for providing foreign currency services, too, and at a reasonable exchange rate.

It%26#39;s been my experience that you can quickly and easily find an ATM near baggage claim in foreign airports.

Buy Euros in Chicago

Thomas Cook Foreign Exchange

19 S La Salle St

Chicago, IL 60603

(312) 807-4940

Travelex

360 N Michigan Ave

Located inside US Bank

Thank you, for you prompt relys and the information you have shared.

Regards

Al

World Money Exchange at 203 N. LaSalle. However, if you do have an account at CHASE, they will do the exchange for free.

Does a Chase Credit Card Count? If so does any Chase bank convert or only certain ones?

I doubt a credit card only works. But I never asked since I have a regular checking account. Only the downtown main branch bank keeps foreign currency in stock.

AAA also can sell you Euros.

I%26#39;ve shopped around for the best exchange rates in Chicago...Chase is it and they still suck. Most of the other places listed charge airport rates (most of them are owned by the same company that does the airports). Call the branches, I know the branch nearby me was willing to accept a large amount of Euro for exchange...I would assume they also carry some.

So long as you move outside the tourist areas in Rome, you%26#39;ll find better rates there...so you can also bring US Dollar and exchange as you go. Just pay attention to the exchange rates online and look at the spreads (they buy dollar for a certain amount and sell it for another) - Shouldn%26#39;t be more than 5%.

You%26#39;re best rates will be from the ATM, which in Italy, will provide Euros and use a VERY competitive exchange rate. These may scare you, but I do information security for a global bank, and that%26#39;s how I exchange money. Just make sure you use bank branch ATMs instead of a random one alongside the road.

Two concerns with this:

1) Call your bank ahead of time to warn them of your trip otherwise your bank will lock your card thinking it is fraud

2) Realize you%26#39;ll likely have a daily limit on your card. You can ask to raise it, but you also may want to pull money out even when you don%26#39;t need it.

3) Be aware of fees...3% currency conversion fee and 2-4 dollar nonaffiliated ATM fee. Italian ATMs probably won%26#39;t charge you like they do here.

You will also be able to use your credit card for most purchases, at a very favorable exchange rate, however they will also probably hit you with a 1-3% foreign currency fee (Capital One No Hassle card charges no fee).

Just remember that you will need Euros to start, so just bring a few from here OR exchange for a few once you get to Italy.

I always like to bring some with me, in case airport ATM%26#39;s are out of order. Generally get them at Amex or AAA. Didn%26#39;t know Chase would do that, will try them this summer. Otherwise, my experience in Europe is that ATM%26#39;s are plentiful in Western Europe. You can also get them at O%26#39;Hare if you don%26#39;t get a chance to get some beforehand.

foodie restaurant lively, good bar scene, excellent food

Looking for great gourmet food, lively bar price no more than 100 per person with great wines by the glass. Would love a good view.

foodie restaurant lively, good bar scene, excellent food

If you%26#39;re looking for dining with a view:

spiaggiarestaurant.com/#/鈥?/a>

www.everestrestaurant.com

www.citechicago.com

www.northpondrestaurant.com

You can read reviews and do dining searches at www.chicagoreader.com

foodie restaurant lively, good bar scene, excellent food

Mercat La Planxa is upscale spanish tapas place with a really strong wine by the glass selection. If you get a window seat, it%26#39;s a nice view of south michigan, across from the park. Even if all the windows are taken, the place is big, colorful, lively.

Look at Perrenial. Not a great view, good outdoor space, good bar scene, very friendly, great food. Also no view but Landmark has great bar scene and food. Agree with Mercat if you don%26#39;t mind Tapas type food. Good view, (if you are in the front) and good food but dull bar is Northpond.

ZB

Changing planes at Chicago

Hello - we are arriving at terminal 5 and then have a flight to Jackson Hole from terminal 1. I understand that I will have to collect luggage, go through customs and then take a monorail (?) to terminal 1 and then check in and go through security again. We are arriving around 1400hrs - any ideas how long this will all take?

Changing planes at Chicago

It%26#39;s pretty streamlined so it doesn%26#39;t take all that long. It sounds much more dramatic than it actually is. The monorail is right outside terminal 5 and its a 5 minute ride to terminal 1. Customs depends on the line, but they move you along pretty quickly.

Changing planes at Chicago

After you clear customs and retrieve your luggage in T5, you%26#39;ll see a United check-in desk. You%26#39;ll leave your bags there and get your boarding pass for your next flight. When you get to T1, go direct to the security line and to your gate. You do not need to check in at T1.

Thanks for your comments - very much appreciated. At least we won%26#39;t have to carry out cases on the monorail!

Right after you drop your luggage, go straight ahead and then up the stairs to the right to the monorail. Do not be surprised to find terminal 5 a zoo after you drop your luggage. Just proceed to train and get off at Terminal one. Head immediately to security, A tip if security is busy, is to go toward the check luggage area, keep going past the first security point to the next one, it is usually faster and then you can backtrack if needed after security.

ZB

oily skin

Taxi from Midway

What is the approximate fare from Midway to the Renaissance on Wacker? Is it based on distance or time(would rush hour traffic increase the rate?). Also- can you still actually pay cash?

Taxi from Midway

Sorry....one more question. Will we be able to get a taxi near the Parkwest Theater after a show? Is the area safe to walk to a nearby hotel to get a taxi? I guess that was actually 2 questions.....

Taxi from Midway

Cab fares are metered. It%26#39;s distance-based. However, if you%26#39;re sitting in traffic, the meter is still running. Cab fare to your hotel will be around $28

You can take a CTA train to your hotel for $2.25 - take an orange line train from MDW. Get off at State/Lake. It%26#39;s a 2 minute walk from there to your hotel. It%26#39;s about 30 minutes by train. www.transitchicago.com for details.

You will be able to catch a cab after your show at Park West.

The taxi fare is based primarily on distance, but there is a charge for every minute that the cab isn%26#39;t moving. It will be more expensive to travel by cab during rush hour because of this. The cabbies will be very happy that you are paying cash.

Thanks for the quick responses.....can%26#39;t wait for Friday....

Jillys Bar Oak/Rush Street.

We are coming to Chicago soon and I%26#39;ve read recently about this place and wondered what its like, has anyone been there? Would you reccomend it for a reasonably priced meal with good music - I like The Sinatra type stuff and think its high time my grown up kids -who will be with us, found out what decent music is like! Would we need to book a table in advance? I%26#39;ve looked for it on opentable.com but can%26#39;t find it. I%26#39;m guessing that since theres no cover charge the prices may be a bit on the expensive side to make up for it, or am I wrong?

Jillys Bar Oak/Rush Street.

Jilly%26#39;s is just a bar--they might serve some bar food--I don%26#39;t know for sure but it%26#39;s not a restaurant at all--it%26#39;s a frank sinatra/piano bar. It%26#39;s crowded, loud, small, has a tiny dance floor and it%26#39;s a whole lot of fun. If you get there early, you could possibly get a table, but there won%26#39;t be anybody there as it%26#39;s a late night place. Certainly go in and check it out, have a drink and a dance but it%26#39;s not the type of place where you would spend an evening.

Jillys Bar Oak/Rush Street.

You might consider dinner at Twin Anchors. This is in Old Town. The only reason I suggest it is historical, it is where Frank used to hang out. It has good ribs, good bar, no music, absolutely no dancing. Next to Jilly%26#39;s is Back Room Jazz Bar. That is a good place for Jazz. Also good is Andys and Green Mill. Sorry if this is a bit off from Jillys but it is a loud kind of place. If you want dinner and music you could also try Green Dolphin.

ZB

My wife and I love Jillys for the Sinatra music, people watching, and the small area for dancing which puts you in close quarters with other couples.

There is also no cover charge, although drinks are still expensive just like every other bar in downtown.

Drawbacks are: Jilly%26#39;s is small. If you walk in after 9 or 9:30 with four people, you may be out of luck finding a suitable table. Most of the 4+ seat tables have ';reserved'; on them, which either means they are indeed reserved in advance, or the doorkeeper is just waiting for someone to slip him $20 for the privilege.

Feel free to check it out. No charge to come in. Have one drink, sit for 30 minutes, and if you don%26#39;t like it, just slip out and try another bar on Rush St.

Have fun!

Thanks everyone for the advice. I think maybe we%26#39;ll eat elsewhere then just go to Jillys for a drink and see how it goes, its nice to go somewhere with atmosphere but not too crowded - yes i know i want the best of both worlds!

I like the sound of the Twin Anchors,I %26#39;ve also read about it in some guide books. Since its near the part of town we%26#39;re staying will certainly give it try. I hope its as good as Carsons for ribs as I%26#39;ve been there twice and loved it!