Anyone live near Chicago, IL?

This has nothing to do with Pet Talk but is anyone from Chicago or does anyone know how the driving is there? My company is flying me to a nearby suburb for 3-4 days on business the first week of March and I'm not all that great with directions and was wondering how the driving in Chicago is? Also if anyone knows any real good spots in Chicago that are "must-see's" (are there any neat museums or aquariums or malls). I noticed there's some people from IL on this thread but I am not sure if anyone's near Chicago or familiar with the roads/driving there. If anyone might have some words of advise I would appreciate it. I have never been to Chicago and if someone tells me that the driving there is crazy and confusing I might just stay at my hotel and not try to venture there. Also, is the crime rate high? I am going alone so I don't want to risk getting mugged.

Sorry this has nothing to do with Pet Talk. Hope it's ok to post.

-Leslie

Leslie:
I lived in Chicago for 8 years. It's a great city! The traffic is as bad as in any big city but not confusing.On the other hand there is a very good public transportation system.
A "must see" is The Art Institute of Chicago on Michigan Ave. If you can get to downtown, the museum and a great number of wonderful stores are within walking distance, don't miss Marshall Fields. Michigan Ave. is like an extended mall, so is State St. The restaurants are terrific.
I never had any problem but, like in any big
city, be careful with your purse; carry one that you can hang across your chest just as a preventive measure.
Have fun!!!

What suburb are you going to? You might be able to take the commuter train into the city and take a cab from there. If you do drive, one thing to note is that Upper and Lower Wacker Drive have just been closed for 2 years as they are starting repair work and these streets. The Shedd Aquarium and Museum of Science and Industry are also wonderful places to visit. This weekend the IKC is having a big dog show at McCormick Place. Too bad your visit won't coincide with that.

Leslie, being from Indiana originally, I got to visit Chicago a lot. The Art museum that Albea mentioned is fabulous, and the Shedd Aquarium and Museum of Science and Industry that Rachel mentioned are definitely must sees. I also enjoy the Museum of Natural History a lot. There is a planetarium nearby also. Definitely take advantage of the public transportation, that way you don't have to worry about driving and directions. Also, depending on where you're staying, they usually have maps to places that are within walking distance of your hotel.
Craving some good food?? Take a cab to Lowry's (a little pricey, but well worth it if you like Prime rib)for the best prime rib you'll ever eat. If you're into Italian food, the Italian Village is quite tasty too! I always have to eat at both places when I'm in Chicago! http://PetoftheDay.com/talk/biggrin.gif

Enjoy your trip! http://PetoftheDay.com/talk/biggrin.gif
Karen

Hi everyone,

Thanks for responding. I knew I could count on my friends from Pet Talk to help me http://PetoftheDay.com/talk/smile.gif I am going to this city called Bensenville which I guess is within an hour from Chicago (but if you know any different please let me know) and I am renting a car but I think I might have to go to Chicago at least once while I am there, otherwise, what a waist of a potential good time http://PetoftheDay.com/talk/smile.gif

All of the places that were mentioned were great, right up my alley. I will try to spend one day after work "Challenging my sence of direction" and get to Chicago. This will be my first trip alone without someone who is great with directions so I'll have to pay attention to the road signs but if you all think it's not too hard to get around in then I just might try it. Think I'll at least get to the aquarium, the art museum and get to one of the restauraunts there.

Thanks everyone http://PetoftheDay.com/talk/smile.gif you are all great!