Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Chicago is...

(Cloud Gate, sculpture by Anish Kapoor, Millenium Park, Chicago)


At least that's how Frank Sinatra felt, and I'm hoping the same will be true for me because that's where we are off to. In just a few short months we will be relocating from New York City to Chicago (or, more accurately, the Chicago suburbs). That leaves me just a few more months to enjoy life as a resident of New York City to the fullest, and to prepare myself to embrace a new hometown.

With that in mind, I'm creating two lists. Because who doesn't love a good list?

First, a list of things I must do before leaving NYC. Places to visit or re-visit. Sights to photograph. Restaurants to enjoy. Parks to picnic in. Museums I have yet to explore.

Second, a Welcome to Chicago list. What are the sights, sounds and tastes that every resident of Chicago should experience? How should I go about getting to know the Windy City? As you can see, I have already visited at least one Chicago highlight, a dazzling sculpture affectionately nicknamed The Bean. So one down, many to go.

Those of you who have loved, lived in or visited these two beautiful cities--help me say goodbye to one and hello to the other. What do you think should be on my lists?

14 comments:

raining sheep said...

I have never been to Chicago. I am hoping one of these days my business will take me there. The Bean? And like wow, moving from New York to Chicago. New York is just so wonderful...although, I can't say I would want to live there...the cost of living is atrocious. There is way too much shopping there as well, I would most definitely go bankrupt.

shanna said...

When you move here, shoot me an e-mail for more information - I've lived in the Chicago suburbs all my life and am obsessed with finding fun things to do! For now, though, off the top of my head:

In the city:
You have to try Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder in Lincoln Park and Spacca Napoli in Ravenswood. Both totally different pizza experiences but fantastic.

Elsewhere:
The Morton Arboretum in Lisle is beyond gorgeous, especially in fall. I was a member for two years and would go every week just to walk around. I've heard the same said about the Botanic Gardens in Glencoe, but I have yet to go!

Also, if you're not too late for Ravinia's season, get lawn tickets for something. The park's in Highland Park and features all kinds of musicians. It's like a giant outdoor picnic, at night, with candles and lights and blankets.

Hey Harriet said...

I'm of no help as I've been to neither New York or Chicago. I would love to visit both though! I'm sure you'll have fun re-visiting all of your fave NYC haunts before heading off! I love The Bean! That is so cool! :)

Anonymous said...

a nice relaxed hot chocolate at mariebelle with the hubby--but when it's a bit cooler of course!
:) tz g-m

montague said...

how about this...
things to do in new york:
NOT leave.
things to do in chigago:
NOT go.

Elizabeth said...

Raining Sheep - There is definitely too much shopping in NYC, it's hard to resisit!

Shannalee - You are the best. Thanks for the recommendations. I'll definitely get in touch when I get to town.

Hey Harriet - Visiting old haunts is such fun no matter where you are. Brings back so many memories!

TZ - Mariebelle? Will do!

Montague - :(

Unknown said...

you're leaving?! well, I hope that I get to meet you before you go:) we planned it and then we never did it and I'd love to:) let's discuss.

I've never been to Chicago but I'd love to go one day! D and I always talk about taking a weekend trip there just for fun:)

drsam said...

I agree with Montague!

Alissa and I have totally been looking forward to hanging out with you guys more when WE move back to NYC in a few months!!!

Sabrina said...

Wow- I'd imagine the lists for both cities would be quite long. Without having spent much time in either place, all I can say is all best to you in your new adventure. I'll look forward to seeing a bit of your lists here.

Elizabeth said...

Chessa - Let's make it happen! A photo walk at the very least!

DrSam - I was looking forward to that too! But Alissa assures me you will visit Chicago for culinary reasons, so hopefully we'll get to hang out then.

Sabrina - I'll definitely be sharing my lists here. Thanks for your good wishes.

Unknown said...

Elizabeth,
I can't believe you are leaving NYC! Hopefully, I could see you before you leave.

Love,
Diana Baquero

f2images said...

Ooh...so much to do in Chi-town. I've wanted to go, but have not get been to the Botanical Gardens down there...I hear they're breathtaking. I think you will enjoy it there. I hope your move goes smoothly!

Emiko :)
(Milwaukee,WI)

Elizabeth said...

Diana - We'll see each other for sure!

Emiko - I'll be right near the botanical gardens, can't wait to visit! And you better believe I'll be making my way to Milwaukee at some point too!

Jaimee McClellan said...

Well, my parents grew up in NY (I did not) & I have many friends in Chicago...so going from where you were to where you're going and from what I've heard {if all that makes any sense}, I think you'll do just fine! ;)

Hey, make one last stop for me in NYC would ya? The Mermaid Inn just bought some of my photos for their restaurant (although they have two...one in the Village & one on the Upper West Side...and I don't know which one they'll be at) Let me know how they look! I'm so excited to have them there! :)