DK Travel : Chicago

Big-city sophistication combined with small-town hospitality create the perfect blend in this, the Mid west’s largest city. Chicago’s influential architecture, cuisine for every budget and taste, great shopping, diverse ethnic neighborhoods, and outstanding museums are reason enough for a visit. And the icing on the cake? The city boasts a lakefront and park system that are as beautiful as they are recreational.

Lou Mitchell’s

A classic diner in the Loop where the waitresses call you “Honey” and the coffee is bottomless, Lou Mitchell’s has been around since 1923. Its trek-worthy meal is breakfast, highlighted by double-yolk eggs and homemade hash browns served in a skillet. Tables turn quickly and the staff doles out free donuts and candy to those waiting on line with good cheer.
Louis H. Sullivan

The creator (1856–1924) of the “form follows function” doctrine designed according to a building’s intended use.
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Minimalist architect (1886–1969) and creator of the modern glass-and-steel box.
Magnificent Mile

Chicago’s premier shopping destination is a four-lane stretch of North Michigan Avenue. It also has historic significance, claiming two of only a few structures to survive the 1871 Great Chicago Fire.
Magnificent Mile

Some 450 stores make this stretch of North Michigan Avenue one of the world’s retail meccas. Besides sophisticated designer boutiques, there are malls (each with high-end department stores); and big-name chain and flagship stores (see Magnificent Mile).
Magnificent Mile

Whether you’re a shopper or not, this store-lined strip warrants a visit if only to get a feel for the commercial pulse that seems to keep Chicago humming.
Magnificent Mile Holiday Lights Festival

Merchants mark the start of the holiday season by lighting the shops, lampposts, and trees along Michigan Avenue. The parade and fireworks above the Chicago River on the Saturday night before Thanksgiving warrant braving the inevitable chill.
Marina City

With its twin cylindrical structures (1964–7) on the Chicago River, marina City is a “city within a city”, containing offices, residences, a theater, a grocery store, and more. The apartments start on the 21st floor, affording spectacular views, but their slice-of-pie shape creates some interior decorating challenges.
Marquette Building

Holabird and Roche also built this 1894 Chicago School structure with a steel skeleton and decorative ornamentation.
Marshall Field’s

Chicago’s oldest and best-known department store is most famous for its elaborate Christmas displays, dazzling Tiffany dome, and iconic clock. Nearly 100 years after opening, this flagship store continues to offer top styles for home and body (see State Street).

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Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, tax, and a 15–20%% tip.
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