We visited Chicago October 10 to 16. Rachael and Geoff moved there in June – Rachael is studying for her doctorate in nursing at Rush University and Geoff is working at ad agency Leo Burnett. They plan to be in Chicago for three years—the duration of Rachael’s program. We enjoyed several visits and meals with them as well as doing all the tourist things in Chicago—a first for us.

Our Airbnb was in the West Loop, a very convenient location with interesting restaurants and pubs. It was walking distance to the Loop and the downtown core. We walked most places and took the convenient and efficient 130-year old “L” (elevated train) to more distant locations.

Shortly after our mid-day arrival, we walked along the Riverwalk, a path with bars and restaurants along the Chicago River. We walked to Millennial Park and saw The Bean.

The first evening, we met Rachael and Geoff for dinner at a Thai restaurant close to their apartment. We saw their apartment, very nice and convenient to both of their needs. They each have about a 20 minute bus ride, but in opposite directions. We also met Eddie their new dog, our latest grand dog. He is a very sweet animal, but a puppy and very active. He is cute. His ears are very Shephard looking, large and directive, his body more of a boxer, thin with long legs. Like I said, a very cute combination.

The second day it rained so we scheduled a visit to the Art Museum. It was amazing! It is in Millennium Park, an easy L-train ride with only a short walk at each end. The Andy Warhol exhibit was just being set up, so missed that, but there was plenty to fill the day. We left exhausted.

Saturday, our third day, we met up with Geoff, and visited briefly with Rachael and Eddie, and went to the Frank Lloyd Wright house.

Monday was a beautiful day. We took an architectural boat tour on the Chicago River including both North and South Forks. We saw many spectacular buildings in this city of architectural wonders.

The final couple of days, we went to the top of the 103-story Willis Tower (former Sears Tower) and visited the Chicago History Museum in Lincoln Park and also visited the National Museum of Mexican Art located in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago. I never knew there was such a strong Hispanic influence that far north!

Had an excellent Chicago Pizza, Italian, Mexican and Thai food, all very authentic and delicious. Learned a lot about Chicago as it is today and its interesting history. It was a great trip! The weather was changing. The wind was biting cold. The temperature was about the same as Portland, but the wind made it much more unpleasant.