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Chicago has three main tourist information centers: in the Chicago Cultural Center; in the Historic Pumping Station (see Historic Water Tower & Pumping Station), and at Navy Pier. Opening hours are at least 10am–5pm. You can also get further information by contacting the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau (312-201-8847), or get in touch with the Illinois Bureau of Tourism (1-800-226-6632).

Information about Chicago can be found on several reliable websites, such as www.choosechicago.com and www.877chicago.com. For in-depth reviews of where to go and what to see, log onto www.metromix.com, affiliated to the Chicago Tribune . Internet cafes include the national chain Screenz (777-348-9300)

The city’s two main daily newspapers are the Chicago Tribune , the Chicago Sun-Times . The most popular radio stations include: WNUA (95.5 FM) for jazz, WFMT (98.7 FM) for classical, WLUP (97.9 FM) for rock, and WGCI (107.5 FM) for R&B. WBBM (780 AM) is a news station, and WSCR (670 AM) keeps you up to date on sports. As for local TV, there’s a wide range to choose from: CBS (Channel 2); NBC (Channel 5); ABC (Channel 7); WB (Channel 9); WTTW Public TV (Channel 11); and Fox (Channel 32).

For a complete list of what’s on in Chicago see www.877chicago.com, or pick up the Chicago Reader – a free paper that comes out every Thursday, available in restaurants, bars, and other venues. Chicago is known for its conventions, some so large that conventioneers almost take over the city. Check the “Convention Calendar” at www.choosechicago.com, to see if your visit coincides with any.

Plan to tip for most services. Waitstaff expect 15–20 percent; bell hops and porters $1 per bag, hotel maids around $2 per night, and bartenders up to $1 per drink.

Most public phones accept coins or phone cards (calls to Directory Assistance are free). Within Chicago you need to dial the area code 312. Otherwise, dial a 1 in front of all other US codes. To dial abroad, key 011 + country code + city code (omitting any initial 0). If you need to rent a cell phone, try International Sound (1-800-353-2100). AT&T, Nextel, and Sprint are the largest mobile service providers.

Chicago Parent magazine (www.chicagoparent.com) has a monthly calendar of kids’ activities. Access Chicago , published by the Mayor’s Office, provides information on handicap accessibility to the city’s main attractions. Call 312-744-7050 to obtain a copy.

Smoking is prohibited in many public spaces in Chicago, so check for no smoking signs before lighting up. The legal age for the purchase or consumption of alcohol is 21, and the law requires photo ID as proof.

In emergencies, your consulate may give assistance.

New Year’s Day (Jan 1); Martin Luther King Day (3rd Mon in Jan); President’s Day (3rd Mon in Feb); Casimir Pulaski Day (1st Mon in Mar); Memorial Day (last Mon in May); Independence Day (July 4); Labor Day (1st Mon in Sep); Thanksgiving (4th Thu in Nov); Christmas Day (Dec 25).