Weekend in Chicago

Luke and one of his business partners Mike had a financial conference in Chicago this last weekend and they decided to bring the wives and make it a quick get away. If I had to describe the weekend in one word I would say "food". We ate like it would all be taken away tomorrow, which is a pregnant lady's dream.

Architectural boat tour in the Chicago River

We took a boat tour in the Chicago River where the guide pointed out famous buildings and types of architecture. My favorite story... The O'Leary's barn where the Great Fire of Chicago started is now the Chicago Fire Department's training center. I like people with a sense of humor.

Gino's East

Mike said that this was THE legendary place to get real Chicago deep dish pizza, I am not one to argue about pizza so I was in! I was not disappointed! The walls are graffitied with thousands and thousands of names, floor to ceiling. We didn't write our names on the wall (although looking back...why not?? The Patterson's were here!) but we did get a picture.

Drinks at the hotel

W Chicago Lakeshore is right on Lake Michigan. Luke and Mike did run down and take a swim in the cold lake, wish I had gotten a picture, oh well.

The John Hancock Tower
The Hancock Tower has one of the best views of Chicago so we had to go up and get a drink (virgin for me).

English Bar
After the Hancock Tower we headed over to watch the last hour of the world cup US Algeria game. It was absolutely packed in there! I have to admit, for not being into soccer, it was pretty fun even though the US lost. It was fun to hear the crowd cheer in unison.

The Drake Hotel
The Drake is a beautiful hotel built in the 20's that has hosted some of the world's most famous people. The whole point of us going to the Drake was because of their famous Bloody Mary's (which of course I could not have) the bar was not open so we went upstairs for high tea (more fun in my book). It was fun to say you have had high tea where the Queen of England did.

Gene's and Georgetti's Restaurant
Again, Mike hooked us up for a fantastic dinner. Gene and Georgetti's Restaurant is famous for it's steaks and Italian food and was supposed to be one of Frank Sinatra's favorite places to eat in Chicago. I was not disappointed, the food was amazing! Now if Luke and Mike could have only lowered their voices when joking about the mafia while eating dinner...

Second City Comedy Club
After dinner we headed over to The Second City comedy club, which boasts famous alumni like John Candy, Jim and John Belushi, Tina Fey and Gilda Radner, for some sketch comedy.

We had a great time. Mike and Chantel were fun traveling buddies. The weather was fantastic and the people were great, minus a few terrifying cab rides.  And what Chicago trip would be complete with out a flight delay at Chicago's O'Hare Airport. I am glad we made it home safely. Until next time Chicago!!!