Ask Joyce

Joyce, Sorry to bother you with your valuable time, however I am making a last-minute trip up to Chicago this evening for two nights. I will be staying at The Allerton and wanted to know your suggestions on things to do as well as restaurants and bars that I should visit during my short stay. Also, do you know the best way to secure tickets for the Cubs/White Sox game on Saturday? Good luck huh? Thanks.

All the Best, Hal

Hi Hal – Busy weekend here in Chicago!! Here are some suggestions:

If you have never been to the Taste of Chicago, it is worth a visit to try different samplings of food from various ethnic cuisines as well as traditional Chicago style pizza, turkey legs, and corn on the cob. I suggest going when they open at 11am to beat the crowds that come later. While there, take time to check out the entertainment.

The Crosstown Classic is currently sold out. The option would be to go through a ticket broker (at a premium) or showing up at the box office at the stadium an hour or so prior to the game to see if there are any tickets available (at face value).

If you are looking for something a little bit different and want to sing “Cumbayah”, the Chicago Peace Fest in Lincoln Park would be a fun alternative.

The Arab community has a festival located in Daley Plaza, Chicago Arabesque, with food, music, traditional dances, artisan demonstrations, and a souq (shopping bazaar).

For some great summer theater entertainment, I would suggest Cirque Shanghai: Gold or Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA. Both are excellent fun acrobatic productions with Cirque Shanghai coming to us from China. Please see your hotel Concierge, Bouchaib or Lenny, for tickets as they are currently available through the box office. Cirque du Soleil will be a bit tougher to get.

Feeling a little retro? Lincoln Park’s Jammin’ at the Zoo features Blondie, Friday night at 7pm. Bring a blanket; no outside food or beverage allowed.

Want to explore a different neighborhood not far from the Magnificent Mile? A short taxi ride to this destination, Old Town is a buzzing neighborhood popular for its great restaurants, eclectic shopping and great entertainment. Definitely hit some of the places suggested on our website.

Enjoy your trip!!

Joyce Fong, Ask Joyce