Chicago... Round 2

I found a few more cool and fun things in Chicago!

Adler Planetarium - great place to take the kiddos, over the age of 8/9. There is a lot of history and in depth information about the planets, stars, our solar system and the thousands of other galaxies. Makes me feel really small, and a little insignificant. The views, on a clear day, of the city are fantastic. It's worth it just to take the bus out there to walk around and see the building and the Doane Observatory (free to enter). I would take advantage of the two shows, Cosmic Wonder and Skywatch Live, explaining the constellations and the galaxies by professional docents and take a "ride" in the Atwood Sphere. You'll experience the night sky over Chicago as it appeared in 1913 in Chicago's oldest planetarium. Beware of the school groups, however, they can overrun the exhibits and are unavoidable certain times of the year.

The Field Museum is another great place to take the kiddos. There are exhibits related to science, environment and culture can be explored. From ancient mummies to endangered plants to a complete T. rex, the Museum boasts a treasury of 30 million specimens. And for the younger kids there are six themed play areas throughout the museum. I stopped in to see Sue the T. rex that was discovered in South Dakota in 1990.

Chicago Architecture Foundation river cruise is a great way to see over 90 buildings that tower over the Chicago River. The docent guided 90 minute tour will keep the history and information coming as you cruise the river, rain, shine, fog or snow. Its rated the "top tour" of Chicago and for $44 per person, I think it's worth it. And you are giving your money to a non profit organization! They offer a twilight tour at 7:30 for $46 per person, if that's your jam. If it's your first time in Chicago or haven't been in awhile this is a must do! The skyline is ever changing and the city does a great job of making improvements to the river walk and the river.

I also walked though Grant Park on a foggy chill afternoon. As I strolled through the freshly cut grass it reminded me of walking down the Champs Elysee Park in Paris, except of course there are baseball diamonds and volleyball courts lining Columbus Dr. This was the first time I got to see the famous Buckingham Fountain, which is very reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles's Bassin de Laoton.

Versailles, France

Chicago, Illinois

Wrigley Field and a Cubs game is a must see and do. It was my first time in this stadium and it was amazing. For just $25 I purchased a seat in the nose bleeds, but got to watch batting practice and warmups from the fancy seats. If you even remotely like baseball, you can't miss this!

I discovered some great grocery and eateries too!

Eataly - Chef Mario Batali's sprawling, modern outpost featuring a range of Italian eateries & food markets. This place is pretty amazing with a small cafe and shop on the 1st floor with a nutella and coffee stand, but the good stuff is on the 2nd floor. So many types of cheeses, meats, pastas, and booze! It's a great place to stop by to pick up picnic fixin's for the Architecture Foundation river cruise. Located 43 E Ohio St, cafe opens at 8am store opens at 10am.

Chicago French Market - This is my new favorite place to eat at in Chicago! It reminds me of an American version of an Asian hawker center. The Chicago French Market has over 30 local food and artisan vendors under one roof. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4:30-6:30 and a concert series Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5-7pm.

Do-Rite Donuts and Chicken - Chef-owned stop for artisanal donuts in unusual flavors plus gluten-free & vegan options & coffee. I mean... the best breakfast sandwich and donut I have ever eaten. Even Thrillist loves them!

Timothy O’Toole’s Pub - Another Irish Pub, but this time its full of character, a great bar and chicken wings! I recommend sitting at the bar, so you don't have to wait for a table and you have a great view of one of the very many TV's with all the games on. There are 48 beers on tap and many more in the bottle with a great local craft beer selection. Like many pubs, the events set them apart like Monday 'Burger night' and Wednesday 'Comedians you should know' night. Located 622 N Fairbanks Ct.

If you want to read more about my visit to Chicago, visit my previous blog post.