Chicago Sites and Bites for Every Appetite

If you’ve ever been to Chicago, there’s no question as to why they call it The Windy City. During the wintertime, it should also be called The Freezing Cold and Icy City. I’m sure you can brave the chill, though - or visit during warmer months - to experience one of the most exciting cities in the country. Art lovers, architect buffs, foodies and science geeks will find something to do in Chicago year round.

 Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum

The world class Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum has exhibits that will interest kids and adults of every age. Discoveries from ancient times through modern day are highlighted. Educational digital theater, films, books and computer games make a visit to the museum both academic and interesting. You can even play with interactive exhibits!

Art Institute of Chicago

Photo Credit: Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago features work from the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist ages by the most famous of artists, including Cezanne, Monet, Rembrandt, Renoir, Seurat and Van Gogh. The modern art wing features work from Magritte, Matisse and Picasso. You can also survey drawings, sculpture and textiles from both Asia and Africa.

The Chicago Picasso

Didn’t get enough of Picasso at the Art Institute? You’ll barely be able to take in the humongous outdoor sculpture that was designed by Picasso specifically for Chicago in the summer of 1967. This gigantic modern art piece invites viewers to share what they see - but no two people have the same perception. Just like looking at clouds, one person thinks they see an article of clothing while another insists it’s a primate from the jungle.

Weighing in at 320,000 pounds and standing 50 feet tall, The Chicago Picasso can be viewed at the Daley Center, which was formerly the Chicago Civic Center. When Picasso donated the piece to the city, he wouldn’t accept any pay. The most interesting part of the story is that Picasso never actually visited Chicago, not even while he was creating the sculpture or as it was being installed.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio

True blue architects and novice architecture admirers both love Frank Lloyd Wright for his unique vision and interesting designs. In the Oak Park area of Chicago, you can view and tour the home and studio that Wright built for himself, his wife and his six children. The family lived there from 1889 to 1901. Hint: When you step into the kids’ playroom, pay special attention to the artistic glass window.

Lamb’s Farm

Photo Credit: Lamb's Farm

Built in 1961, Lamb’s Farm is owned by special education teachers Corrine Owen and Robert Terese. The farm employs adults who have mental disabilities to give them a place to both live and work with the support they need. Lamb’s Farm is an excellent stop to make with the little ones - there’s a miniature train, a kiddie golf course, a petting zoo and an ice cream parlor. You can also dine at the restaurant, curb your sweet tooth at the bakery or plan an on-site birthday party.

Navy Pier

Photo Credit: Navy Pier

The Navy Pier, located on Chicago’s lakefront, is chock full of restaurants, stores and attractions. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or catch a flick at the IMAX theater. Storll through the Amazing Chicago Funhouse Maze, a twenty minute walk full of special effects, funhouse mirrors and amusing lights. The Navy Pier also has a carousel, miniature golf and a children’s museum. 

Taste of Chicago

Photo Credit: City of Chicago

Ever since 1980, the famous Taste of Chicago has been held annually in Grant Park. Today, the Taste of Chicago is the world’s largest food festival. For ten days during the summertime (usually around July 4th), guests can taste food and wine from local vendors as live music plays all day and night. Cuisine is both regional and international and if you’re lucky, there’ll be a fireworks show one evening.

Burt is a freelance writer based in Galena, Illinois who enjoys studying historical landmarks. Burt Webbs has a passion for writing about Galena lodging, especially the historical www.ryanmansiongalena.com.