Chicago

Catriona Hunter: Really interesting, although best views are from on the deck, so try to pick a dry day!

Catriona Hunter: The section on the history of the city is really interesting. They have some objects that survived the Great Fire (well, survived is a relative term)

Catriona Hunter: Special exhibit tickets sell out. So get there early if you really want to see something. If you are in a group, book your tickets together to ensure you get the same timeslot.

Catriona Hunter: The only WWII German U-boat in the USA. To actually get on the U-boat requires an extra ticket above general admission. Absolutely fascinating.

Catriona Hunter: Area containing the Field museum, the aquarium and the planetarium. Some good views of the city, especially from just outside the planetarium.

Catriona Hunter: Located within the Shedd Aquarium.

Catriona Hunter: From just outside the entrance you get a fantastic view of the Chicago skyline.

Catriona Hunter: The Ferris wheel is open all year, but the other rides close in the winter. However if you buy a 5-ride ticket it is valid for a year.

Catriona Hunter: At the far end of Navy Pier, but it's free and worth a look. Contains 8 windows by Tiffany.

Catriona Hunter: Many of Chicago's landmark buildings are along this stretch.

Catriona Hunter: Very pretty and apparently if you get married in it you'll never get divorced.

Catriona Hunter: A great alternative to the Skydeck. Or do both - one during the day and one at night.

Catriona Hunter: Buy tickets online in advance to skip the line. Can see four different states on a clear day: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin

Catriona Hunter: One of the few buildings in the district to survive the 1871 fire.

Catriona Hunter: The outside of the building is embedded with stone and masonry from other famous building around the world.

Catriona Hunter: Discount tickets for shows around the city.

Catriona Hunter: On the third floor is the world's largest Tiffany dome and it's free.

Catriona Hunter: Walking Tour of Public Outdoor Art in the Loop http://www.everytrail.com/guide/walking-tour-of-public-outdoor-art-in-the-loop

Catriona Hunter: Great example of Art Deco architecture.

Catriona Hunter: Fabulous Christmas decorations. Also has a Tiffany dome.

Catriona Hunter: Boasts a huge menu and the best eggs Benedict in the city.

Catriona Hunter: Staff hand out free donuts as you wait in line.

Catriona Hunter: Best French toast in the city. The choc-chip, banana and bacon pancakes aren't bad either. Also has a vending machine where you can get a branded pen for 25cent :)

Catriona Hunter: Get the Chicago mix - cheddar and caramel - it's really good! (Several locations throughout the city.)

Catriona Hunter: Whatever you do, do not put ketchup on your Chicago style hot-dog. It's a major faux-pas.

Catriona Hunter: Apparently there is a mint-chocolate-chip-cookie-dough cheesecake that you've gotta try

Catriona Hunter: Go for afternoon tea for a spot of decadent elegance.

Catriona Hunter: You must go here! A fusion of Asian and Latin food that is divine. Love the bakos.

Catriona Hunter: Food is fabulous. Portions are huge.

Catriona Hunter: Not the first deep pan pizza in the city, but widely considered to be the best. (Several locations throughout the city.)

Catriona Hunter: According to our tour guide this place has the best steak in the city. "So tender it's like cutting into butter."

Catriona Hunter: Good food and huge selection of beers.

Catriona Hunter: Flights of wine and cheese :)

Catriona Hunter: $10 manicures and Martinis!

Catriona Hunter: Originally a prohibition era speakeasy. Has a piano player in the evenings and cocktails are the drink of choice.