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WILMETTE. Beautifully manicured gardens frame this magnificent, white-stone structure, which was completed in 1953. Its soaring, 191-foot dome has an airy atmosphere, courtesy of a lacy piercework exterior. The Middle Eastern-inspired structure is one of only seven Baha'i temples in existence and the only one present in the western hemisphere. The interior is as breathtaking as the exterior, and guided tours are available on request. The temple is an active place of worship, so be mindful of others when you visit.
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THE LOOP. [Due to national security concerns, only prearranged group tours are allowed to visit the viewing center. The lobby visitor center is, however, open to the general public.] The Chicago Board of Trade, the largest exchange in the world, holds court in an impressive Art Deco building. Visitors may watch the frenzied action of futures and options trading from the 5th-floor viewing center and be enlightened by guides about the seemingly-cryptic gestures used by traders. A small museum and a film offer more insight into the business of trading. While you're there, note the rooftop aluminum statue of Ceres (Roman goddess of harvest), and look for the lovely painting of her that was once on the trading floor and now occupies a place of prominence in the atrium addition.
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Want to embark on a truly unique sightseeing excursion? Try locating markers placed by the Department of Cultural Affairs that commemorate the notable men and women who have lived and worked in the Windy City. From artists and architects to politicians and scientists, famous folks from all walks of life find themselves recognized and their contributions remembered. Among the honored Chicagoans are Nat "King" Cole (4023 South Vincennes Avenue), Lorraine Hansberry (5936 South King Drive), Carl Sandberg (4646 North Hermitage Avenue), and Frank Lloyd Wright (25 East Cedar Street). Contact the Department of Cultural Affairs for a Markers of Distinction map.
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Chinatown
Cermak Rd at S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616 · 312-326-5320
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CHINATOWN. One of Chicago's most unique neighborhoods, Chinatown offers Far Eastern charm in the Midwest. Featuring scores of terrific Chinese and Cantonese restaurants and bakeries, the neighborhood has a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of folks who visit. Shoppers also enjoy cozy, family-owned bookstores and gift shops. If you're lucky, you'll visit Chinatown during one of its lively festivals – perhaps even the colorful Chinese New Year celebration.
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SOUTH LOOP. This beautiful main branch of Chicago's Public Library system opened in 1991. Built in Neoclassical style with high columns and vaulted ceilings, the building soars 10 stories and is capped by a majestic Winter Garden. The collection includes nearly 2,000,000 books and almost 14,000 periodicals. After touring the facility, treat yourself to a snack at the café (Mon-Sat 11am-3pm), which serves light lunches, tea, and coffee and offers a terrific view of the South Loop. Guided tours are available. EL: Brown, Purple, and Orange Lines to Library Station
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MAGNIFICENT MILE. After 40 seconds in John Hancock's elevator, visitors are transported many stories above Chicago. From there, the city's third-largest building offers views that stretch out to 80 miles on a clear day. Food and drink are available in the restaurant and lounge, and informational exhibits are on display in four different languages. Should you be around in February, you may want to skip the elevator ride and run to the top with other participants who "Hustle up the Hancock" to benefit the American Lung Association.
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LITTLE ITALY. Folks undertaking strict diets should probably skirt this busy Chicago neighborhood, where tempting aromas of deep dish pizza fill the air. Little Italy, in fact, is perennially popular for its cozy, family-operated restaurants and unique neighborhood groceries. You'll also find two prominent Catholic churches in the neighborhood.
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Navy Pier
600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 · 312-595-7437
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STREETERVILLE. Since 1916, Navy Pier has been home not only to the military but to scores of special attractions. Now purely commercial, the pier offers everything from an IMAX theater to performances by a Shakespeare troupe. You can view dancing in a grand ballroom, ride the splendor of a fifteen-story ferris wheel (a replica of the one at Chicago's 1893 World's Fair), or relax to the sounds of waves quietly lapping on the lakeshore.
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Odyssey Cruises
600 E Grand Ave, Navy Pier, Chicago, IL 60611 · 866-305-2469
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STREETERVILLE. Up the ante on sightseeing with Odyssey's dinner cruise packages. The company offers yacht tours along the shores of Lake Michigan, and incredible views of the city are standard, especially at night. Lunch and brunch packages are also available on the vessel, which features three enclosed decks and an upper, open-air one. Live music adds to the appeal, especially during special-event cruises. Outings typically last two to three hours and should be booked well in advance.
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Sears Tower
233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606 · 312-875-9447
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THE LOOP. Standing 1454 feet high, this skyscraper is easily Chicago's most dominant structure. Visitors can shoot to the top of the 110-story building via a 70-second elevator ride and catch magnificent views into Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin from the 103rd floor skydeck. Informational exhibits for both adults and children teach the history of Chicago, the construction of the tower, and interesting "did you know" facts.
Our Sightseeing category provides a feast for the eyes. Why? Because most all of our selections are famous places that you can view and take pictures of to show everyone back home. Landmarks, sculptures, historic homes, historic districts, cemeteries, water fountains, and statues are just a hint of the sights we've selected.
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