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Sensory overload – all you need to see, do and hear in Chicago
With the launch of the UK’s cheapest daily flight from London to Chicago, there’s never been a better time to go to ‘Windy City’, says Aine Fox A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT A spectacular view of the city
Wednesday May 16 | 2018
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N 1885, the world’s first skyscraper – the ten-storey Home Insurance Building – was erected in Chicago. Since then, the skyline has grown dramatically, with structures now looming ten times as high. “Downtown was our playground,” says 67-year-old Lynn Hughes, recalling her youth growing up in Oak Park, one of the city’s 77 neighbourhoods. Back then, the 41-storey Prudential Building reached furthest into the bright blue sky. The former teacher is one of around 200 greeters who volunteer their services to, in Lynn’s words: “Show off our city.” This is my first trip to Chicago, and as I settle into my room overlooking Millennium Park, I can’t help but compare it to New York – a city which, in my head, would be hard to knock off the number one spot. So why should people visit Chicago? Lynn doesn’t need a second to think before answering: “Our city is the friendly, clean, affordable New York.” Millennium Park is one of its many green spaces, situated within the sprawling Grant Park – known by locals as the city’s front yard. Free activities range from weekend yoga classes on the lawn to classical music concerts performed by the Grant Park Orchestra, and Chorus in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. During the summer, people gather around the Crown Fountain, made up of two 50ft-high glass towers featuring projections of Chicagoans spouting water from their mouths in the style of ancient gargoyles. But with so much on offer, this is a year-round destination – and a new direct flight from Norwegian Air Shuttle makes it cheaper than ever. Plan a trip to delight the senses with these essential activities… DO… a downward dog in the sky The Windy City’s setting on Lake Michigan means that Chicago truly has some spectacular views. And while park yoga in the fresh air is enjoyable, striking the downward dog pose 94 floors high in 360 Chicago, the former John Hancock building, is a thrill. The class takes place in a glass-walled room with a mirrored ceiling, and instructors gently offer tips as they walk around the room. COST: Sky Yoga is $15 (about £11), which also includes admission to the observation deck (bring your own mat). It runs on Saturdays from 9am-10am, but arrive 20 minutes early. Visit www.360chicago.com/360-sky-yoga SEE… architecture by water For an alternative view of the city, a trip along the Chicago River is perfect. First
HEIGHT OF CALM 360 Sky Yoga
Lady Cruises, in association with the Chicago Architecture Foundation, offers an insight into how the impressive buildings on the banks of the river, and beyond, sprung up over the course of the last century. On breezier days, rum-spiked hot chocolate is served during the 90-minute tour – which has been voted the city’s best tour by TripAdvisor. COST: From $44.48 (about £33) excluding tax. Multiple daily tours operate until November. Visit www.cruisechicago.com STAY… at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel This former men-only private members’ club – which had to keep its moniker as part of the deal to restore and reopen the Venetian Gothic building as a 241-room hotel – is an ode to old world style with its extravagant dark wood interiors. Overlooking Millennium Park, the Michigan Avenue building occupies an enviable location – it’s a short stroll from the likes of shopping mecca Macy’s, or the Art Institute of Chicago museum. COST: Standard rooms from $269; suites from $1,000. Visit www.chicagoathletichotel.com A LION OF A MUSEUM The Art Institute of Chicago
EAT… a tasty meal at RPM Steak A few minutes’ walk from the riverside, this sophisticated restaurant on West Kinzie Street has a relaxed ambience. It offers an excellent variety of steaks, but save space for the sides – the Japanese sweet potatoes and spicy broccolini are recommended. You may end up arguing over who gets the last crispy Brussels sprout though – the in-house curry vinaigrette dressing gives the veg a whole new lease of life. COST: RPM Steak frites is $43 (about £32); sides from $9-13 (around £6-10). Visit www.rpmrestaurants.com ENJOY… the hilarious comedy shows at Second City The Chicago-based comedy club, which has been running for more than 50 years, sparked the careers of Bill Murray and John Candy, to name a few. One of its current shows, Dream Freaks Fall From Space, takes a mocking look at modern-day American life – covering everything from race to dating, and how the PLENTY TO SPOUT ABOUT The Crown Fountain