Presented By:
Victor Colon
Chef Concierge
insidertips
CHICAGO DINING
Because Chicago is still growing and earning its reputation as a vibrant city there has been a tremendous influx of restaurant openings. Many great Chef's have been lured by the possibilities of our city.
CHILD FRIENDLY
Chicago is exceptionally child-friendly and even in the more upscale restaurants your kids are accommodated without question. Children's portions are almost always available. It also works that way for vegetarians or vegans. Many restaurants accomodate the diet restrictions of their patrons
TRANSPORTATION
You can request to share a cab from the airport which will cut the fare to downtown in half. The taxi dispatcher will arrange everything for you. The Chicago public transportation system called the CTA is quite extensive and visitors can forgo bringing their vehicles and just relax.
Local Weather
Weather conditions can change drastically in a matter of hours, plus temperatures vary between the lake front and more protected areas inland. It is always good to bring an extra layer of clothing like a light sweater that you can take off if it gets to warm or keep for the cool days
WEATHER/TRAVEL
In the summer, thunderstorms often form in the afternoon, frequently delaying travel both in and out of the airports. It is advisable to book a morning flight to avoid delays.
Chicago meat industry history
The Chicago meat industry spawned a number of inventions over time, like the refrigerated railroad car. This was designed in order to ship pre-cut meat instead of livestock to the East Coast.
Chicago River Reversal
In 1900 the flow of the Chicago River was permanently reversed in order to protect the quality of the drinking water at the time.
March 17 - Irish National Holiday
Not just a rumour, the Chicago River gets tinted green on Saint Patrick's Day.
Winter months
Some of the best deals for visiting the city can be found during the winter months. This goes for not only the hotel rates but the sightseeing tours around the city and the surronding suburbs
Buying a CTA card
The best way to see and explore the city is through its exceptional public transportation. You can purchase either a daily pass or weekly pass and use it on both the bus or train system.
Credit Card
Credit cards are the preferred American way to pay. In Chicago you can even pay your taxi fare with a credit card.
Sweater/light jacket
The best time to visit Chicago is during the warm months of the year, especially to enjoy the lake. Even so, temperatures by the water can be as much as 10°F cooler than slightly inland.
Walking shoes
Chicago is well known for its wonderful architecture which can be explored by walking the city or taking the architectural boat tour on the Chicago River.