Quite possibly the best American city. My favorite pizza: Giordano's My favorite sandwich: Portillo's My favorite bar: Billy Goat Tavern My favorite nightlife: Second City Comedy Place I haven't Been But Want to Go to: Hot Doug's (a hot dog and sausage stand)
Also just a few other things. The whole neighborhood around Wrigley Field is neat. Also if you head south the University of Chicago has a cool campus with some Frank Lloyd Wright architecture if you are into that sort of thing.
Thanks jo, this is sort of spur of the moment planning. Had some time off and thought this might be a great time as ever to take the short trip by train or car. I do wonder how chaotic it's going to be with St Patrick's day and all. Seeing the parade would be enjoyable I would think.
I can't argue with anything here particularly thr statement about the greatest American city. It's the most friendly laid back large city to which my travels have taken me. In NY, you say hello to a stranger walking down the street, it's more likely than not that the reply you get will be a loud "[uck fay] you!" (At least a go to hell look). Do the same in Chicago more often than not you'll get a "Hello, how are you?" Stay away from the pizzarias of Lou Malnatti's and Uno's. Grossly overrated, imo. Pizza is one area where NY style kicks Chicago style deep dish's ass. I hear it's a great place to become a community organizer, get involved in dirty politics, and become a Sal Alinsky follower..... At least that's what Obama haters say. (That was a joke for those that take this sort of stuff very seriously.)
Bump. Heading to Chi Aug 5-11 for work. Should be able to do some damage with 6 nights in the city. Staying downtown/river north area. Anyone else have any chicago suggestions?
I like them both but for different reasons. Chicago people put it over the top, though, and I find it to have a certain charm that NY doesn't have. ------- HH, you should also try Greek Islands Restaurant in Greektown. Touristy, but the food is excellent. Also grab popcorn from Garrett's in O'Hare for the plan ride home... Chicago mix-style.