My kind of town - Chicago

Sitting along Lake Michigan is the beautiful and windy city of Chicago, with its stunning architecture, the famous Magnificent Mile and an array of great restaurants including the Chicago staple, deep dish pizza. It is one of the largest populated cities in the United States, next to New York and Los Angeles and it's well known for its sky line of impressive skyscrapers including the John Hancock Center and the Sears Tower (now known as the Willis Tower). If L.A is too far and NYC too busy, be it by plane or by car, Chicago is a city that caters to foodies, shoppers, sports or architecture enthusiasts, as well as art and music lovers. It has a little bit of something for everyone.

No matter what time of year, there is likely a sporting event to enjoy. Be it football, hockey, baseball, basketball or soccer, there are many options be it you are there with friends or family, business or pleasure. No matter the season, if you have the time, why not visit the home of the Bears, the Blackhawks, the White Sox, the Cubs, the Bulls or the Chicago Fire. If sports are not your thing, Chicago is renowned for its museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago, home to both Impressionist and Post Impressionist works. The Field Museum of science and invention, that houses the largest Tyrannosaurus Rex and the Shedd Aquarium with a state of the art indoor aquarium.

Since Chicago borders the water, you have to head to the Navy Pier where you can enjoy restaurants, shops, carnival rides and fireworks. A trip to Chicago is not complete without a visit to Millennium Park and the famous "Bean" sculpture. The park also houses an outdoor theatre or you can simply just take a seat and people watch or soak in the architecture. Speaking of architecture, you can purchase tickets for a walking, a bus (hop on and off) or a boat tour while in the city. Having done both the bus and boat tour, I really enjoyed the boat tour immensely. It was a great way to see the city, learn about the history of the buildings, get some incredible pictures of the Chicago skyline and end the tour with a stunning sunset.

When I think of the theatre, I often think of Broadway in New York. However, Chicago is a hub for world class productions and premiers. The Chicago Theatre itself, once known as the Balaban and Katz theatre is a landmark in Chicago, built in 1921, and is one of the earliest movie palaces. Today it is a venue for plays, magic shows, comedians, music concerts and sporting events. You can even just book a ticket and get a tour of this legendary building.

Speaking of buildings, if you wish to get breathtaking 360 degree views of Chicago, then make your way to the 1128 foot super tall skyscraper know as the John Hancock Center. If you are feeling brave with the height, then stay for dinner at the Signature Room at the 95th, an ideal way to enjoy drinks and a sunset in the windy city.

Chicago has ample dining options. Of course, the deep dish pizza is a must and everyone claims to have the best one. We have dined at Giordano's on a few occasions and we were never disappointed, but keep in mind that this stuffed pizza does take time to bake so order a cocktail and enjoy the experience. If steak or seafood are more your liking, book a table (with a river view) at Smith & Wollensky's steakhouse. In all honesty, we have never had a bad meal in Chicago. Personally, I also never skip an opportunity for something sweet at Stan's Donuts and or sweet and salty from Garrett's popcorn. Good thing Chicago is a walking city, to burn off all those calories.

Hotel options and bookings have never been an issue with many to choose from. My prefer area has always been the Gold Coast where you can experience dining at places such as Lux Bar, Gibson's Bar and Steakhouse or Fig & Olive, boutique shopping along the Magnificent Mile, Anthropology or Tory Burch and the comforting accommodations such as the Sofitel or The Talbott. It is a little luxury all in the same location.

I guess good old blue eyes sang it best, my kind of town is most definitely Chicago!