When visiting Chicago on business, more than likely the gathering location is right downtown. This is where the most hotel conference rooms are. It is also the best tourist location in the city, as you have easy access to just about everything the city has to offer.
Chicago has world class restaurants right downtown and throughout the city. Steer clear of the tourist traps and destinations found in most major cities (Hard Rock Cafe, Rainforest Cafe) and look for a local restaurant. Here you will find original food to the city. Grub on a Chicago style deep-dish pizza, or take in one of the restaurants from renown chef Rick Bayless, master of Mexican cuisine.
In between meetings, feel free to take in tours of the Chicago river (for St. Patricks day the river is died green), or city tours in giant, double decker buses. You can also take boat rides on Lake Michigan, one of the largest lakes in the entire world.
During the evening time, venture up to the top of the Sears Tower, the tallest building in the United States, and take in a view of the city below from the observation window. An entire class lookout, giving you the eerie feeling of standing on air.Can’t get enough? There’s more: Things To Do In Chicago On Weekends