Making a Whirlwind Visit to the Windy City
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By GERRY and PAMELA BARKER
North Palm Beach Life Published April, 2020 After almost three days on the train, here we are in Chicago, the famous "Windy City" on the shores of Lake Michigan. We only have about 24 hours before we catch another Amtrak train en route back to Florida. Our good friends, Ann and Marty, have volunteered to show us the sights. Since we don't have any time to waste, let's get started! |
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The Historic Palmer House Hotel
This is where we stayed -- the historic Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago. Originally built in in 1871, it was open only 13 days before being destroyed by the Great Chicago Fire. It was subsequently rebuilt and re-opened in 1875 as one of the most lavish hotels in the world.
It was greatly expanded in the 1920s and purchased by Conrad Hilton in 1945. Starting in 2007, it was renovated and restored at a reported cost of $170 million. Standing in the massive lobby, it's easy to imagine how first-time guests were awestruck by the opulence and luxury all around them. Even if you don't stay in one of its 1,600-plus rooms, you should make it a point to come here and enjoy a drink in its lobby bar. Photos/Video by North Palm Beach Life |
Two views of the lobby area
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Millennium Park
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Our friends took us to Millennium Park, occupying almost 25 acres in the near downtown area. Opened in 2004 and costing close to $500 million, it attracts 25 million people a year, making it Chicago's top tourist attraction and among the top 10 attractions in the United States. We could only get a sampling of its many features, but it's easy to see why it's become a centerpiece for the people of Chicago.
The Jay Pritzker Pavilion hosts concerts and other events
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Crown Fountain boasts dramatic LED displays.
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This giant, reflective bean sculpture is called "Cloud Gate." Created by Sir Anish Kapoor, it's made up of "168 stainless steel plates welded together and then highly polished to obscure any visible seams," -- just right for taking selfies!
Pam and Ann lead the way
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Enjoy views of downtown Chicago
Admire the collection at the Art Institute of Chicago
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Food, Drink and Exploring
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How about this view from Ann and Marty's condo balcony?
With only a few days before Halloween, Chicago was in full celebration mode, including a downtown parade (right) and neighborhoods decked out with ghosts, goblins and freaky-scary clowns. Check out that video, if you dare! |
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We ended the evening enjoying this magnificent view of the city from the waterfront. Good choice, Marty!
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It was all-too-soon time to leave Palmer House and head for Union Station, where we would board Amtrak's Capitol Limited and head for the nation's capitol. Thanks Ann and Marty, and Chicago, for a great time!
