The It List

Chicago

Carl Sandburg called it "The City of Big Shoulders." He wasn't talking about men and women striding The Loop dressed in power suits with the Chicago Tribune tucked under an arm. Yet, this iconic image is a reminder of the second city's own individual style, and paves the way for what to pack for a visit to Chi Town.

INTO THE WIND

Chicago is unique for being a midwestern city with a coastline. Built along beautiful Lake Michigan, Chicago gets its fair share of wind, earning it the moniker The Windy City. In the summer heat, it's a welcome breeze, but in winter, it's a howling freeze! So pack accordingly; nothing will warm you up like a bubble coat. Shop for one with a hood, or buy a warm winter hat. And don't forget gloves to match!

BEST DRESSED

Chicago is renowned for its first-class restaurants and for two of the finest theaters in America; the Goodman and Steppenwolf. For an evening of dinner and the theater, slip into a dress. A jersey knit dress travels virtually wrinkle free. Try a pullover or figure-flattering wrap dress. Both are classics you can enjoy for years to come. With a simple switch of accessories, they effortlessly take you from desk to dinner.

ON YOUR FEET

A treasure trove of architectural splendor, Chicago is a city for walking and gawking. So choose your shoes wisely. Autumn is the perfect time for the loafer. Pick a pair with flexible rubber soles that cushion your stride. Details like a buckle or contrast stitching add a fashionable note that looks great with everything from jeans and trousers to a pencil skirt.

JEANEOLOGY

For a city in America's heartland, nothing makes an American fashion statement like a pair of well-worn denim jeans. They pack easily, and now we have more styles and fits than ever. Pair them with a sweater and jacket for daytime touring; top them with a shimmering satin pullover for nighttime clubbing.

THINGS TO DO AND SEE
For Arts...

Museum of Contemporary Art
220 E. Chicago Avenue • (312) 280-2660
One of the largest facilities dedicated to contemporary art, and placed near the famed Chicago Water Tower, this museum includes a 300-seat theater and a beautiful garden overlooking Lake Michigan.

The Art Institute of Chicago
111 S. Michigan Avenue • (312) 443-3600
This treasure chest holds some of the World’s most fascinating art exhibits. From the department of Textiles to the Ernest R. Graham Study Center for Architectural Drawings, there is always intrigue to explore.

History...

Chicago Symphony Center
220 South Michigan Avenue • (312) 294-3000
This ode to Georgian architecture is home to the world-famous Chicago Symphony Orchestra, which consists of 110 musicians, three conductors and an award-winning composer. Attend a concert of almost any genre or take a tour of the amazing facility, and you will appreciate this essential part of Chicago city culture.

and Culture...

The Magnificent Mile
625 North Michigan Avenue • (312) 642-3570
Stretching from the Chicago River to Oak Street, this portion of North Michigan Avenue is nothing short of the name describing it: magnificent. Lined with skyscrapers, amazing restaurants, five-star hotels and the world’s most popular stores, this is one mile of Chicago that shouldn’t be neglected.

Oak Street Beach
1000 North Lake Shore Drive
Just north of the Magnificent Mile this is one of Chicago’s most notable attractions. It is an outdoorsmen’s haven on a beautiful day.

Parks...

Millennium Park
103 North Michigan Avenue
The 24-acre park is a hub for art, music, architecture and landscape design. Enjoy ice-skating with friends throughout the winter, and treat yourself to free classical music performances in the summer. Also be sure to visit the Jay Pritzker pavilion – a chic concert venue that is equally as beautiful, even without the music.

Chicago Botanic Garden
1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL • (847) 835-5440
This amazing collection of over two million plants stops the hearts of more than 900,000 visitors every year. With 23 different gardens and seven enchanting themes, you’ll never get bored in the brilliant outdoor greenhouse. Feel free to take a tour or have a picnic, but don’t miss out on this fascinating world wonder!

...and Recreation

Willis Tower Skydeck (formerly Sears Tower)
233 S. Wacker Drive • (312) 875-9696
View Chicago, Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin from the 103rd floor, where on any given day you can see up to 50 miles out! While you’re enjoying the view, also be sure to check out the exhibits, virtual tour and children-friendly displays.