Chicago - MUST sees : Part 1

 Part 1:  Marie's Must Sees

I've been lucky to have the opportunity to visit Chicago numerous times. With my family we hit up the museum, aquarium, Lake Michigan, and more.  My mom and I have traveled to Chicago for a girls weekend of shopping, and boy do they have the shops. And then my husband and I have gone twice to see our best friend Charlie Swanson, who was a part of the Benedictine Volunteer Corps.  So of the 5 times I've been, here were my MUST sees if you find yourself in the windy city.

Drinks at The Signature Room

View from 95th floor

The View: Go to The Signature Room on the 95th floor of the John Hancock tower, situated along the magnificent mile, and enjoy a $10 drink with a breathtaking view of Chicago.  Totally worth it, instead of paying the same price to observe one floor up without the option of having a drink and chance to lounge while taking in the view.

Warning: Very high up, if afraid of heights...just don't sit too close to the window. 

Food: PIZZA really was our main focus on our visits. Dave being a pizza connoisseur made sure we got our pizza experience. Check out these 3 and you're sure to thank me later!

• Giordano's (1974) -known as "best" stuffed pizza
• Suggestion don't make my mistake and order the garlic as an option, since its not minced, you can imagine the fallout of that choice
• Gino's East (1966) famous for deep dish pizza & the establishment inside is covered in graffiti
• Unos (1943) -originated in Chicago and developed the deep dish pizza 

Amusement: Chicago has plenty that can occupy you, but if you're there for a short time this is what I enjoyed checking out.

• Lake Michigan

  

  Lake Michigan

• Shopping - The Magnificent Mile is aptly named for the mile of shops in downtown Chicago.  Even with the privilege of living in close proximity to the Mall of America, this stretch of stores is still a wonder to behold.
• Shedd Aquarium - largest indoor aquarium in the world, more than 8,000 aquatic animals
• The Field Museum of Natural History - dinosaur skeleton exhibit
• Six Flags Amusement Park - Gurnee, IL (1hr north of Chicago), Batman roller coaster was decidedly the favorite at the park
• Millennium Park - its the perfect picture opportunity and chance to see gardens and artwork
• Annual Chicago Hunger Walk - Soldier's Field & Michigan lakefront