Chicago

[jdawg1998]

Hey KIC members and lurkers! I would like to tell you the story of an amazing city, better than New York, L.A., and even Cincinnati (sorry, home city). Chicago is its name, and as I am typing this I am already missing it. Stay here to read and if you don't care about a stupid city, then leave.

Getting into Chicago on June 22, you could see the Willis (formerly Sears) Tower from about 15 miles out. Getting in closer, the humungous skyline amazed me. As you drive into the city, you may cross over a bridge above the Chicago River. This area is like Rome but inside a modern city. It is one area you shall not miss out on if you ever visit.

The Willis Tower Skydeck was the scariest thing I have ever done. I may be able to ride roller coasters, but being 1,400 feet high makes me cringe. On this deck they have glass boxes that go out about 5 feet out of the building, so you can look straight down at the ground - basically floating in mid air it feels like. My mom had to push me out on it...stupid fear of heights. I recommend all of you to sometime in your life go to this observation deck. Write it on your bucket list - now!

The architecture and art in Chicago is old, modern, and just plain weird. Some areas are still there after the Chicago Fire, such as the water tower at Water Tower Place mall. Some buildings that were built any time after the 80s remind you of some future city from the 2500s. And, some, well, some...just don't make any sense (such as a building that goes up, then goes out).

Remember how cities are cities? Well, not Chicago. The parks in Chicago are huge (and better than Central Park, in my opinion). Millennium Park is an addition in 2001. It includes an amphitheater where orchestras and jazz bands play, a big brick wall with a human face on it that spits out water, and a flower garden. Just across the street is Grant Park, where the Taste of Chicago was held when I was there. Spread throughout the city are nice little playgrounds, paths, and green spaces.

Food. Ahhh, food. Italian, Mexican, American, Mediterranean...even a restaurant that sells pig ears and head cheese. The best food I've ever had and some of the best steaks ever is at The Saloon Steakhouse - recommended dining from me. Every block you will find at least four restaurants, ranging from fast food like McDonalds and Subway to fine dining.

Please, please, please visit Chicago someday. The city is full of beautiful buildings, clean streets (sometimes), and great attractions.

Additional note: Something I really noticed is the safety. Two police are at every street crossing - so you feel at your safest when walking through the city.

And, to show you all what I have described, a music video I have put together with the song "Mr. Blue Sky".

[pkiboy]

Glad you injoyed the Windy city im surprised you didnt get the best pizza Lou Malnati's mmmmmmm yummmy!! next time hit up Six Flags Great America its no that far from the City my 2 all time fav wooden coasters are there Eagle and Viper!! Glad you had a blast!!

[jdawg1998]

I knew you would say something about Six Flags!

Any other comments? And please watch my video, I spent a lot of time on it and this report!

[standbyme]

Nice trip report...it's nice to see such enthusiasm for something! The video was also nice...and in the "eerie" department, I was listening to E.L.O. as I was reading your report and turned it down to watch your video.

(I loved seeing the "Married With Children" fountain as I call it.)

I have to say I personally prefer New York City over Chicago...but I am from Illinois so it is probably a "You always want what you can't have" kind of a mentality.

[Delirium13]

Very nice report, I visited Chicago a couple years ago for a little weekend trip and had a great time! So much to do. Loved the video, brought back some memories from my trip. And yes the Skydeck is quite an experience, very cool!