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Learn about the origins of agriculture, the invention of writing, the birth of civilization, and the beginning of the study of arts, science, politics, and religion at this University of Chicago departmental museum. Its five galleries showcase ancient Near Eastern civilizations from about 3500 BC to AD 100, and the exhibits were largely unearthed during the department’s own excavations.

This homey breakfast haven does everything well, but its signature dish is the apple pancake.

At the north end of Jackson Park’s serene Wooded Island (which is excellent for bird-watching), lies this hushed retreat, complete with meandering paths, lagoons, and fountains. The extraordinary garden is a partial re-creation of the one formed in 1934 around the beautiful Japanese Pavilion that had been built for the 1893 Expo, but which sadly burned down in 1946. The gardens were renamed in 1993 for one of Chicago’s sister cities, Osaka, which donated the Japanese gate seen here.

Recalling the days of elegant steamships and grand hotels, this store uses old-fashioned suitcases and steamer trunks to lovingly display vintage china and silverware engraved with hotel and ship logos.

Palmer House has been an elegant fixture in the heart of the Loop for over 125 years. Extravagant frescoes decorate the ornate lobby’s ceiling, while the guest rooms are subtly elegant. The hotel even has its own upscale shopping arcade.

The first Palmer House was destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire (see 1871: Great Chicago Fire). The current grand hotel is the third version and is lavishly decorated with frescos, Tiffany light fixtures, and marble floors.

Original contemporary art, rich woods, and warm tones create comfortable and tranquil public and private areas at this elegant boutiqe hotel. The state-of-the-art rooms feature furniture designed by Mies van der Rohe.

Waitresses wearing pretty cheongsams , candles on the tables, and lush ferns on the room’s periphery create a romantic setting for Vietnamese cuisine at Uptown favorite Pasteur. Best dishes include the assemble-your-own spring rolls. Continue with the aromatic pho soup and clay-pot chicken.