Blog Archives

An Award-winning International Sensation

6/30/2011

The award–winning International sensation DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST comes to life on stage at the Oriental Theatre for a limited six-week engagement through August 7th, 2011. Experience the romantic tale of Belle and the Beast filled with enchanting acts, lavish sets and costumes, unforgettable songs, and a timeless lesson about true beauty.

“The theme of ‘Beauty’ is about seeing past the exterior into the heart of someone, and this is reflected in the design for the show, which is about transparency and layers, seeing past one thing and into another,” said Director Rob Roth.

Performing at the Oriental Theatre at 24 W Randolph. Tickets range from $18-$85, and are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices, by phone (800) 775-2000, at all Ticketmaster retail locations, and the BIC ticket kiosk at Water Tower Place.

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A Taste of America

6/28/2011

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With Independence Day right around the corner, there’s no better way to experience the best of Chicago and the best of America together in one fun-filled weekend. In Grant Park, the gastronomic fireworks continue through July 3rd as the 30th Annual Taste of Chicago keeps on cooking with delicious samples from 59 different eateries and a host of free musical performances.

After filling up at the Taste, it’s time for some patriotic pyrotechnics compliments of Navy Pier (600 E. Grand; 312/596-PIER), where huge displays are planned for both July 2 and July 4. For a unique viewpoint, consider taking in the display from one of these popular sightseeing boats plying the waters of Lake Michigan: Seadog (877/902-6216); Shoreline Sightseeing (312/222-9328); Tall Ship Windy (312/451-2700); Mystic Blue Cruises (877/299-7783). Call for prices, cruise times and availability.

Finally, for something a little different, try a fireworks kayak paddle trip from Wateriders (950 N. Kingsbury; 312/953-9287) or a two-wheeled shoreline tour from Absolutely Chicago Segway (337 E. Randolph; 312/552-5100).

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Taste of the Taste by Mark Loehrke

6/24/2011

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Nothing says “summer” quite like a picnic in the yard. And nothing says “summer in Chicago” like the Taste of Chicago – the ultimate picnic in the ultimate yard, Grant Park (Jackson and Columbus). Hundreds of thousands of hungry folks will turn out to feast on food from 59 different eateries and listen to free musical performances. We’ve singled out a few spots that you definitely won’t want to pass up.

Bacino’s Pizza of Lincoln Park: 2204 N. Lincoln, 773/472-7400.
Stuffed Spinach Pizza Slice; Stuffed Sausage Pizza Slice; Thin Crust Cheese Pizza Slice; Thin Crust Sausage Pizza Slice.

Garrett Popcorn Shops, Chicagoland Locations
Popcornsicle; The Chicago Mix; Mixed Nuts; Ice Cream.

Harry Caray's Restaurant: 33 W. Kinzie, 312/828-0966.
Holy Cow Potato Chips; Fried Dough; Toasted Cheese Ravioli, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie.

Manny's Cafeteria and Delicatessen: 1141 S. Jefferson, 312/939-2855.
Barbequed Turkey Leg; Corned Beef Brisket Sandwich; Potato Pancakes; Apple Pie Square; Macaroni and Cheese.

O'Brien's: 1528 N. Wells, 312/787-3131.
Celtic Corn on the Cob; Gourmet Beef Hot Dog (Chicago Style); Buffalo Popcorn Shrimp; French Fries; Cherry Dumpling.

Star of Siam: 11 E. Illinois, 312/670-0100.
Pot Stickers (Chicken and Vegetable); Pad Thai Noodles; Grilled Chicken Satay; Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura.

Texas de Brazil: 51 E. Ohio, 312/670-1006.
Combo Platter (combo of the following items); Signature Garlic-Marinated Picanha; Brazilian Sausage; Chicken Breast Wrapped in Bacon.

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Go With the Flow

6/23/2011

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Chicago’s popular lakefront gets plenty of traffic and attention as the weather warms, and rightfully so – it’s one of the most beautiful and active summertime pedestrian areas in the city. But another less-heralded stretch of shoreline has been getting busier and prettier with each passing year, to the point where the lake just might soon find itself competing for visitors with the suddenly resurgent Chicago Riverwalk.

This newly expanded and improved corridor takes walkers, joggers and bikers right to the edge of our famously backward-flowing manmade waterway, with plenty to see and do. Take a cruise through the steel and glass canyons of downtown on a Wendella Boats architectural tour (400 N. Michigan; 312/337-1446). Use some pedal power to create your own two-wheeled tour with a bike or rollerblade rental from Bike and Roll Chicago (310 E. Riverwalk South – Wacker and Columbus; 312/729-1000). Or just sit back with a sandwich and a glass of wine under an umbrella and watch the world float on by at Cyrano’s Café (233 E. Lower Wacker; 312/616-1400), pictured left.

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Outdoors, Outstanding

6/21/2011

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Perhaps in more temperate climates, the notion of enjoying a meal outdoors is no big deal. But in Chicago, where the brief appearance of bona fide warm weather inspires a panic to cram every possible form of outdoor activity into three frenzied months, al fresco dining is undoubtedly one of our most cherished seasonal traditions – as evidenced by the welcome appearance of tables and umbrellas outside of just about every restaurant with an available patio, deck, rooftop, garden or sidewalk. No matter what kind of cuisine or atmosphere you’re looking for, chances are there’s an outdoor option just waiting for you.

Fresh sushi seems to taste better with an al fresco twist, which is why you’ll find appreciative crowds in the charming patio area at Friends Sushi, where the chef’s dozens of creative variations come alive in the great outdoors (710 N. Rush; 312/787-8998).

Over at the Hard Rock Café, meanwhile, the dining room décor of guitars and rock n’ roll memorabilia may be a big draw at other times of the year. But during the summer months, the burgers and beer seem to go down better with a view of the bustling sidewalks of River North from the rockin’ outdoor patio (63 W. Ontario; 312/943-2252).

Down at water level along the rapidly developing Chicago Riverwalk, meanwhile, the newly revitalized thoroughfare boasts a number of outdoor eateries to complement the wonderful skyline views. Stop for a bite at O’Brien’s Riverwalk Café on the south bank near Wabash Avenue to get an al fresco taste of this classic Old Town outpost on the river (45 E. Riverwalk South; 312/346-3131).

Finally, cap your day with a refreshing tropical drink at the newly opened Margaritaville Bar & Grill (600 E. Grand) on Chicago's Historic Navy Pier. Inspired by the travel and songs of Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville Bar & Grill is a great place for anyone who wants to escape from the everyday, any day of the week.

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An Awfully Big Adventure

6/20/2011

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Extended by popular demand for the third time, the spectacular new threesixty° stage production of J M Barrie’s classic story Peter Pan comes to life in the state-of-the-art theater tent at the Chicago Tribune Freedom Center.
One of the most striking elements of this new production, now extended though August 21, 2011, is the setting in which it is presented. The threesixty° Theatre, a 1,300 seat theater tent, allows for performance “in the round” and features 23 actors, stunning puppets, epic music, and dazzling flying sequences surrounded by breathtaking video projection.
Chris Jones from The Chicago Tribune says Peter Pan is “Beautiful… strikingly intimate” and “charming.” The Chicago Reader declares, “Real excitement!” The Daily Herald raves the show is “enchanting” and “a state-of-the-art spectacle.”

Peter Pan is performing at the Chicago Tribune Freedom Center at 650 W. Chicago (at Halsted) through Aug. 21, 2011. Tickets range from $20-$75, and are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices, by phone (800) 775-2000, at all Ticketmaster retail locations, and the BIC ticket kiosk at Water Tower Place.

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Cruising Chicago’s Shoreline

6/18/2011

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No summer in Chicago is complete without a Shoreline Sightseeing Cruise! Now in its 72nd season, Shoreline's Architecture Cruises, Skyline Lake Tours and Fireworks Cruises depart Navy Pier day and evening. One-hour Architecture Cruises are led by entertaining guides who highlight more than 40 landmark buildings along the historic Chicago River.
Or choose a Skyline Lake Tour, featuring the city's breathtaking lakefront and including narration on the city's history and landmarks. Chicago loves fireworks and some of the best views in town are on Shoreline's Fireworks Cruises Wednesday and Saturday nights through Labor Day! Plus special tours including Brew Cruises and City by Night.
Hop on Shoreline’s Water Taxis for fast, fun connections to top attractions. Taxis docks include Navy Pier, Michigan Avenue Bridge, Willis (Sears) Tower/Union Station, and Museum Campus. For information on cruises, taxis, group rates or to purchase tickets in advance and save - visit www.shorelinesightseeing.com or call 312/222-9328.

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Drink In the Views with Dad

6/17/2011

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In celebration of National Skyscraper Month and Father’s Day, guests are invited to go vertical at the John Hancock Observatory and discover magnificent views 94-stories up. Perched 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile, the observatory boasts sweeping views spanning 80 miles and four states. Visitors are sure to enjoy the Skywalk open-air viewing deck, multimedia Sky Tour narrated by David Schwimmer, and the world’s most advanced telescope technology.
Afterward, wrap your lips around an Espesso™, the coffee you can eat, at the award-winning Espression by Lavazza café. Light and mousse-y, it's like eating coffee clouds. Or drink in the views with a refreshing SKYY® High cocktail, made with SKYY Raspberry Vodka, Blue Curaçao and Lemonade served with fresh lime over ice.
Buy your ticket and Dad is FREE on Sunday, June 19th! The John Hancock Observatory is located at 875 N. Michigan Avenue and open daily from 9am to 11pm for great daytime and nighttime views. For more information, call 312/751-3681.

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No Tie Required by Mark Loehrke

6/17/2011

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Fact: No dad has ever wanted to receive a tie as a present for Father’s Day. So this year, why not bypass that forlorn formalwear and give dad a day of fun and adventure in the big city instead?
Start with an afternoon on the Chicago River for a unique view of the urban canyon with a guided kayak tour or an independent paddle trip from Wateriders (950 N. Kingsbury; 312/953-9287). Next up, don’t just get dad a classic pipe or stogie as a gift let him pick it out himself amid the historic ambiance of the 154-year-old surroundings of famed tobacconist Iwan Ries & Co. (19 S. Wabash; 312/372-1306). Mention KEY to receive a free gift!
Finally, cap the day with Bison, Beer and Baseball, as the Cubs take on the Yankees and specials like bison burgers, hot dogs and chili dot the menu at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse (33 W. Kinzie; 312/828-0966).

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