Where'd the tops go?

I didn't manage to get my camera out to take a photo of the fog but here's a great shot by Craig Finlay.

Arriving somewhere new in the rain is unlikely to leave you with the best first impression. But Chicago was different. With a heavy fog over the city and light rain dropping down, Chicago's skyscrapers disappeared into the sky. The effect was beautiful and something I'll always remember fondly about Chicago. 

A Chicago kiss?

Nope, it's actually part of the Crown Fountain installation at Millenium Park. Using real Chicago locals, you'll see videos of them just kind of looking at you before pursing their lips... not in a kiss but to spout out water. 

If you love big cities, you'll love Chicago. There's some fantastic pieces of art that are industrial and whimsical-looking at the same time in Millennium Park. Miles and miles of lakeshore that summers see full of locals and tourists enjoying a beach like atmosphere (the city might be famous for being windy but its summers are red-hot!).

Chicago by boat

Chicago is as tall as it is big. You can see more of it and go further in the mid-west in a Chicago car hire.

The spectacular architecture that'll have your necks straining is best seen and learnt about on a river tour where you'll find informative and funny guides who will engage you. If you didn't realise you were a fan of architecture before - you will do afterwards. I went on a very sunny day in April - fooled into thinking spring was in full swing, I failed to dress up properly. So unless you're going in the summer, wrap up warm even on sunny days!

And all that Jazz

Mood lighting

And if you do head to Chicago, you must, MUST, pay a visit to the Green Mill.

Opened in 1907, it's been around a while. But it's been preserved well. And not preserved like a museum. You'll find the place often packed with people drinking, dancing and enjoying live bands - much like you'd imagine people have always done here. Looking like a scene from prohibition-era times, it's a wonderful place to feel like you've slipped back in time as well as, of course, enjoy really great music.

A look inside

Famous musicians have played here - and it's history includes a time when it was part-owned by mob members in the twenties as well as having entertained ol' blue eyes, Frank Sinatra, when he paid a visit after playing Joe E. Lewis in the film, The Joker is Wild (a scene is set in the Green Mill - recreated in Hollywood studios).

Big Band music

When I went, there was a big band playing to a mixed crowd and a full dance floor. 

When you go, just don't forget to bring your dancing shoes! Also, if you like boardgames - check out monopoly art in hip Logan Square.