Chicago, Illinois

BACKSTORY: When I was in college at Indiana University, Chicago was a frequent roadtrip destination; the fact that my brother lived in the burbs at the time was another reason I visited this fantastic midwestern city. Although the brutal winters and muggy summers are not ideal, the art museums (especially The Art Institute), the shopping (Michigan Avenue, aka the Miracle Mile), and the theater district make it worth the discomfort.

Art Institute of Chicago

Carbide and Carbon Building

Hancock Building

Merchandise Mart

Michigan Avenue

Millennium Park

Montrose Beach

Navy Pier

Palmer House

Warwick Allerton Hotel