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Magnificent Mile
The Old Water Tower located at the northern end of Chicago's Michigan Avenue is one of the only structures in the city's Streeterville District to have survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.  As such, the limestone structure now serves as a testament to the Second City's resilient spirit. Although the nearby 100-story John Hancock Building dwarfs the Water Tower's 154-foot tall standpipe, the landmark is still one of the most recognizable sites along Chicago's famous "Magnificent Mile." After visiting the numerous retail stores that line this crowded thoroughfare, tired shoppers are encouraged to take a trip up to the 96th floor of the Hancock to visit the spacious Signature Lounge. The lounge and accompanying restaurant provide some of the best views of the city. And, unless you are looking for open-air access to the roof, which can be had for an $8.00 admission to the observatory deck, you might as well invest your money in a cocktail here in one of the many window-side seats. Afterwards, you can slip down to the Drake conveniently located at 140 East Walton Place for one more drink at one of the most luxurious hotels in town. (Make it an Executive Martini-a drink worthy of the plush interior for which the Drake is renown.) For those travelers who are interested in something other than shopping, the Museum of Contemporary Art is located within walking distance of the Old Water Tower at 220 East Chicago Avenue. The museum displays art created since 1945 and typically showcases the work of three or four artists at any given time. Consequently, visitors are able to find something different each time they visit. Every Tuesday admission is free; otherwise general admission costs $10.
Regardless of whether you spend your time shopping or perusing the museum's spacious galleries, you are sure to work up a healthy appetite during your stay.  Fortunately, there are plenty of restaurants in this area, which cater to hungry tourists. If you plan to spend most of the day walking, you might want to consider loading up on a few carbohydrates. For a generous portion of pasta accompanied by live entertainment nightly, head a few blocks southwest to Rosebud on Rush. Situated at the corner of Rush Street and Superior Street, Rosebud on Rush offers excellent Italian cuisine, outstanding service and a spirited atmosphere that is truly Chicagoan. Although numerous celebrities visit the restaurant annually, the setting is by no means pretentious and the price of a meal is quite reasonable for downtown Chicago. Due to the restaurant's popularity, however, reservations are recommended in order to guarantee a table. For a good bargain in terms of a hotel right in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, check out the Allerton Crowne Plaza. Built in 1924, the hotel underwent significant renovation during 1999 and is perhaps the greatest value for lodging in this otherwise pricey section of town. With more than 400 rooms and 60 suites, the Allerton offers comfortable accommodations and a historic setting at an affordable rate. By taking advantage of these bargains, you can stretch your shopping budget and allow yourself a few more items from any of the hundreds of retailers which make up Chicago's "Magnificent Mile."
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Writer: Tom F.
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[Must Visit]
Nearby Spots: John Hancock Center · Navy Pier ···
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Featured Spot: Navy Pier
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Considered to be the most tourist packed spot in Chicago, Navy Pier is actually located on Lake Michigan; it extends about a mile into from the shore.  The hustle and bustle of this spot is unbelievable! The number of events and activities going on in this place is quite astounding. Opened in 1916, the pier was designed for both shipping and recreational...More
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Eyewitness Travel Guide to Chicago
by Lorraine Johnson, John Ryan, DK Travel Writers
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