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.

The Signature Room at the John Hancock

Less touristy than some downtown destinations, the Signature Room at 95th floor of the John Hancock (currently the second tallest building in Chicago), still offers an exciting, new experience for many out-of-towners and even for those who have lived in the city their entire lives. The complete views of the city from all sides, top shelf drinks and service, and elegant food are all worth the 'luxurious' cost!
The Talbott

Enjoy the quiet elegance of this small, family-owned, European-style hotel. The Victorian parlor-like lobby and atmospheric Basil’s bar and café offer a chance to unwind, and the 149 guest rooms and suites are large and welcoming.
The The Art Institute of Chicago

This extraordinary collection of exhibits spans over 4,000 years of international art, much of it donated by wealthy Chicago collectors.
The Tin Lizzie

A sports bar-and-dance club, Tin Lizzie is wall-to-wall with twenty- to thirtysomethings most weekend nights, when DJs spin a variety of tunes.
The Tremont

An inviting fireplace welcomes you at this 1920s-built hotel, where guest rooms are small but comfortable; some have antique furniture and four-posters. Mike Ditka’s restaurant is famous for its steaks and the collection of sports memorabilia.
The Velvet Lounge

Ignore the threadbare decor; The Velvet Lounge offers some of the city’s best jazz including jam sessions with the bar’s owner, a saxman himself.
The Whitehall

A quiet, understated European ambience has permeated this hotel since it opened in 1928. The 221 guest rooms combine elegant tradition with mod cons, and the Presidential Suite was a favorite of Katherine Hepburn. Check out the Molive restaurant with its menu of over 200 tantalizing martinis.
Tiffin

Locals debate which Indian restaurant along the eatery-and-sari-shop-lined Devon Avenue qualifies as the best. Among them, Tiffin impresses with tender tandoori oven specialties and subtlely spiced lentils. More upscale than most of its neighboring competitors, it generates a warm welcome via the enthusiasm of its staff.
Toys, Etc.

This inviting store focuses on non-violent toys galore. Good-old standbys include kites, face-painting kits, balls, and dress-up clothes.
Trattoria No. 10

Ravioli and risotto are this restaurant’s specialties. A $12 buffet (plus $6 drink minimum) is available at the bar Monday through Friday evenings.

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Restaurant price categories

Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, tax, and a 15–20%% tip.
- under $20
- $20–30
- $30–45
- $45–60
- over $60
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–200
- $200–300
- $300–400
- over $400