Come one, come all, the edition of the Chicago Auto Show has commenced!
The Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America and has been held more times than any other auto expo on the continent.
Put on your walking shoes and plan on spending the day checking out the newest models available by a plethora of automakers. If you are a serious car shopper there are multitudes of cars that you are able to climb in and out of all in one place. There are economy cars, family sedans, minivans, SUV’s, hybrids, convertibles, sports and luxury cars etc.
However, the biggest draw for visitors to the show is the concept cars, maybe one day we will see a car that actually flies and avoid some of Chicago’s traffic congestion!! In addition to the concept cars, many of the companies use the show to reveal new production models, talk about a brilliant marketing plan.
There are some interactive activities for the attendees to do: some of the motor companies are offering driving simulations and test driving tracks (although patrons are only allowed to be passengers).
If you are looking for a way to escape the cold, come and enjoy the warmth and wonder of the Chicago Auto Show!
The show runs -- Friday, February 10 through Sunday, February 19 (February 10-18: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., February 19: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.).
Located: McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Entrance Fees: $11 for adults, $7 for seniors aged 62 and older, $7 for children 7-12 and free admission for children 6 and younger when they accompany a paying adult.
Advance tickets may be purchased at DriveChicago.com
Chicago is very excited to present a new but temporary (February 10-20) art exhibit located in Millennium Park called Luminous Field. This is a video and sound installation (dramatic images and colors set to music) that was created specifically for Millennium Park and will illuminate Cloud Gate which is more widely known by many Chicagoans as “The Bean”.
A local theater company called Collaboration will be performing at Cloud Gate inspired by Luminous Field. The crowd can dance along with Collaboration and participate in interactive games, all synchronized with Luminous Field's videos and music.
Luminous Field will be on view on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 - 10 PM, and Sunday - Thursday evenings from 6 - 9 PM.
Last but not least, The Windy City Circus (a not-for-profit touring circus) comes to town February 17 – 26. The circus is comprised of aerial and trapeze artists, clowns, jugglers, Miniature Champion White Horse act and dog acts.
Ticketholders can arrive an hour prior to each performance and nosh on circus food while being entertained by strolling performers portraying historic Chicago characters. There will also be caricature artists and a “money box” in which guests have 20 seconds to grab as much “funny money” (coupons, etc.) as possible.
80% of the proceeds go to charities such as the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana, and Special Olympics Chicago.
Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave in Festival Hall. Tickets: $17.50-$45.00 for weekday performance and $20.50-$60.00 for weekend performances Call for tickets: 312-803-0096
Enjoy your stay at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago where there is always something to do in the winter, spring, summer or fall!
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
New Year, New Fun in Chicago
Welcome to 2012 and the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago!!!!
So far we are waiting for the dreaded Chicago winter to kick in but so far we have been very, very lucky with almost spring-like weather as we enter the second week of January! We are bracing ourselves for the wintry weather to kick in, although we would not mind it bypassing us altogether…
Thinking warm thoughts, the Chicago Boat, Sports & RV show takes place Thursday, January 12 – Monday, January 16 at McCormick Place (2301 S. Lake Shore Drive).
Cost is $10 for adults and free for kids 15 and younger.
Whether you enjoy fishing or sailing, or being a road warrior, spend the day checking out hundreds of boats and RV’s as well as all of the gear that goes along with your hobby.
If you have always wanted to try to scuba dive, this is the place to be. Learn about the equipment, some basic diving skills and then hop into the heated pool to embark on a new adventure. No need to bring anything but yourself, this is free and the necessary equipment for the dive is provided.
Not a fan of swimming below the water? Make your way over to Paddlefest where you can try kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddleboards in the pool.
Feeling competitive? The Power Boat Docking Challenge has you steering your radio controlled boat while standing at the real helm of a full size boat. This is a race against time, as you drive your “boat” from the lake towards the marina and into a slip. Best times will win a prize!
There is also the Huck Finn Trout Pond for kids 12 years and younger. Random fish are tagged and if your child hooks one, they can win a prize.
The show is full of all types of activities so make sure to plan on spending the day at the show!
Once the snow starts to fly there are some family fun winter events happening in the city.
Come out for some fun at the 7th Annual Polar Adventure Days, which take place on both Saturday, January 21 and Saturday, February 18 from 12 - 4 p.m.
Activities will include ice sculptors, snowshoeing (free snowshoe rental available), discussions with participants of Iditarod dog sled races with Siberian Huskies on hand, storytelling, live music from the Old Town School of Folk Music and an area for arts and crafts.
Polar Adventure Days takes place at Northerly Island, 1400 S. Lynn White Dr. (on the Museum Campus). Call to confirm scheduled activities for Polar Adventure Days as activities are subject to change (312-742-7529).
Another family themed event that should not be missed is Snow Days Chicago at Navy Pier. Snow Days starts on Friday, January 27 and ends on Sunday, January 29 at (600 E. Grand Ave).
There will be a snow sculpting competition made up of teams to from around the country, the world, and even Chicago high school students. There is also a snowboarding rail and dog sled demonstrations.
If you are looking to take in some of Chicago’s Culture, head to Chicago’s famed Chinatown on January 29th to watch the Chinese New Year Parade. This celebrates the Lunar New Year ("Year of the Dragon 4710") and the parade marches right through the middle of Chinatown. The parade features marching bands, intricate floats, lion dance teams, and a 100 foot long paper dragon made out of silk, paper, and bamboo.
The parade steps off at 1:00 p.m. (check start times closer to parade date), and the route runs along Wentworth from 24th Street to Cermak Road.
Enjoy your visit to Chicago, we cannot guarantee the warm temperatures we have had are going to stick around, but there is plenty to do once winter arrives!
So far we are waiting for the dreaded Chicago winter to kick in but so far we have been very, very lucky with almost spring-like weather as we enter the second week of January! We are bracing ourselves for the wintry weather to kick in, although we would not mind it bypassing us altogether…
Thinking warm thoughts, the Chicago Boat, Sports & RV show takes place Thursday, January 12 – Monday, January 16 at McCormick Place (2301 S. Lake Shore Drive).
Cost is $10 for adults and free for kids 15 and younger.
Whether you enjoy fishing or sailing, or being a road warrior, spend the day checking out hundreds of boats and RV’s as well as all of the gear that goes along with your hobby.
If you have always wanted to try to scuba dive, this is the place to be. Learn about the equipment, some basic diving skills and then hop into the heated pool to embark on a new adventure. No need to bring anything but yourself, this is free and the necessary equipment for the dive is provided.
Not a fan of swimming below the water? Make your way over to Paddlefest where you can try kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddleboards in the pool.
Feeling competitive? The Power Boat Docking Challenge has you steering your radio controlled boat while standing at the real helm of a full size boat. This is a race against time, as you drive your “boat” from the lake towards the marina and into a slip. Best times will win a prize!
There is also the Huck Finn Trout Pond for kids 12 years and younger. Random fish are tagged and if your child hooks one, they can win a prize.
The show is full of all types of activities so make sure to plan on spending the day at the show!
Once the snow starts to fly there are some family fun winter events happening in the city.
Come out for some fun at the 7th Annual Polar Adventure Days, which take place on both Saturday, January 21 and Saturday, February 18 from 12 - 4 p.m.
Activities will include ice sculptors, snowshoeing (free snowshoe rental available), discussions with participants of Iditarod dog sled races with Siberian Huskies on hand, storytelling, live music from the Old Town School of Folk Music and an area for arts and crafts.
Polar Adventure Days takes place at Northerly Island, 1400 S. Lynn White Dr. (on the Museum Campus). Call to confirm scheduled activities for Polar Adventure Days as activities are subject to change (312-742-7529).
Another family themed event that should not be missed is Snow Days Chicago at Navy Pier. Snow Days starts on Friday, January 27 and ends on Sunday, January 29 at (600 E. Grand Ave).
There will be a snow sculpting competition made up of teams to from around the country, the world, and even Chicago high school students. There is also a snowboarding rail and dog sled demonstrations.
If you are looking to take in some of Chicago’s Culture, head to Chicago’s famed Chinatown on January 29th to watch the Chinese New Year Parade. This celebrates the Lunar New Year ("Year of the Dragon 4710") and the parade marches right through the middle of Chinatown. The parade features marching bands, intricate floats, lion dance teams, and a 100 foot long paper dragon made out of silk, paper, and bamboo.
The parade steps off at 1:00 p.m. (check start times closer to parade date), and the route runs along Wentworth from 24th Street to Cermak Road.
Enjoy your visit to Chicago, we cannot guarantee the warm temperatures we have had are going to stick around, but there is plenty to do once winter arrives!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Visions of Sugar-Plums
The holiday season is in full swing and Chicago is abuzz with events happening all around the city!
One of the most traditional ways to enjoy the season is by attending The Joffrey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” at the Auditorium Theatre - located at 500 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. The show runs as a limited engagement (Dec. 9 – 27), so make sure to get your tickets now.
If you are looking for a more interactive experience you must take a trip to the world famous Museum of Science and Industry to see the 70th annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light. Over 50 trees are decorated symbolizing local customs and traditions from places like Austria, Japan and Wales. Volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities take the time each year to showcase how the rest of the world celebrates the holidays.
While you are at the Museum, there is a phenomenal new exhibit called There’s Fun to be Done! Dr. Seuss & The Art of Invention. The exhibit focuses on the life and works of Theodor Seuss Geisel, otherwise known as Dr. Seuss. He is the creator of The Cat in the Hat, One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, Green Eggs and Ham, and the forever popular How The Grinch Stole Christmas. There are drawings from the early days, sculptures and activities for the family to take part in.
You will also notice that the area where the Grand Tree is located will offer some Dr. Seuss flair. The tree is in the middle of the museum and there are ornaments and decorations representing his work.
The exhibit will be in Chicago until January 8, 2012.
The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60637
If you are looking for a day of indoor fun, head to Navy Pier for the 11th Annual Winter Wonder Fest presented by Bank of America. There is fun for all ages - games, rides, music, the Reindeer Express Train, Blackhawks Indoor Ice Skating Rink, cookie decorating and a beer garden (for some adult fun!).
There are so many activities and attractions at Navy Pier, make sure to check them ahead of time to plan your day - http://winterwonderfest.com/.
The festival ends on January 8, 2012 and is close on Christmas Day (Sunday, December 25, 2011).
Best wishes to you and yours on behalf of the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel, as you celebrate this joyous season!!!
One of the most traditional ways to enjoy the season is by attending The Joffrey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” at the Auditorium Theatre - located at 500 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. The show runs as a limited engagement (Dec. 9 – 27), so make sure to get your tickets now.
If you are looking for a more interactive experience you must take a trip to the world famous Museum of Science and Industry to see the 70th annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light. Over 50 trees are decorated symbolizing local customs and traditions from places like Austria, Japan and Wales. Volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities take the time each year to showcase how the rest of the world celebrates the holidays.
While you are at the Museum, there is a phenomenal new exhibit called There’s Fun to be Done! Dr. Seuss & The Art of Invention. The exhibit focuses on the life and works of Theodor Seuss Geisel, otherwise known as Dr. Seuss. He is the creator of The Cat in the Hat, One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, Green Eggs and Ham, and the forever popular How The Grinch Stole Christmas. There are drawings from the early days, sculptures and activities for the family to take part in.
You will also notice that the area where the Grand Tree is located will offer some Dr. Seuss flair. The tree is in the middle of the museum and there are ornaments and decorations representing his work.
The exhibit will be in Chicago until January 8, 2012.
The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60637
If you are looking for a day of indoor fun, head to Navy Pier for the 11th Annual Winter Wonder Fest presented by Bank of America. There is fun for all ages - games, rides, music, the Reindeer Express Train, Blackhawks Indoor Ice Skating Rink, cookie decorating and a beer garden (for some adult fun!).
There are so many activities and attractions at Navy Pier, make sure to check them ahead of time to plan your day - http://winterwonderfest.com/.
The festival ends on January 8, 2012 and is close on Christmas Day (Sunday, December 25, 2011).
Best wishes to you and yours on behalf of the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel, as you celebrate this joyous season!!!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Turkey Day, Christkindlmarket and Zoo Lights
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, have you made plans for your holiday meal during your Chicago visit??
If not, look no further the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel and our very own chef Krista Lotesto! We are offering a $48/per person Thanksgiving 2011 Prix Fixe Menu at our very own NIX restaurant. Reservations are highly recommended so do not hesitate to call today. (312) 751-8100.
Start your day at 9am on Thanksgiving morning by taking part in the 34th Annual Turkey Trot 8K Run/Walk in Lincoln Park. Make sure you Sign up to register at http://turkeytrotchicago.com. In the spirit of the season, bring a couple cans of food to the race to donate to Greater Chicago Food Depository to help feed Chicago’s less Fortunate
After your delicious meal, work off those calories by heading over to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park, which is located at Michigan Ave and Washington St. The rink officially opens on Friday November 18th and does not close until Sunday March 11, 2012. There is a $10 charge for skate rental however there is no charge for admission, so bring you camera and bring your best ice dancing moves.
Travelers from near and far enjoy a tradition takes that place from November 23rd-December 24th at Daley Plaza – 15th year of Christkindlmarket Chicago. This is a German market where you can find a variety of authentic fare such as potato pancakes, sausages, pretzels, beer and the hot spiced wine called “Gluhwein” which will warm the cockles of your heart on a chilly winter’s day. If you have a sweet tooth there is a standalone building filled with hundreds of German candies and bakery treats!
After a little noshing, you can do a little holiday shopping; there are numerous vendors that sell favorites such as the ever popular nutcrackers, as well as ornaments, clothing and beer steins. Tables are set up outside if you are hearty enough to brave some of those winter days, but there are also tents set up if you need a place to thaw out with some hot wine! Hours are: Sunday – Thursday: 11am – 8pm, Friday & Saturday: 11Am – 9pm. Holiday hours for Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2011 and Christmas Eve, December 24, 2011 is 11am – 4pm.
If you are looking for more outdoor adventure head north to Lincoln Park Zoo (LPZ) to see the Zoo Lights – where you can visit the animals at the zoo while enjoying almost 2 million twinkling lights. You can drive (paid Parking lot) but it is much easier to take public transportation to LPZ. The zoo is open 365 days a year and is FREE every day; something very few zoos around the country can offer. Zoo Lights start on November 25th every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night through December 11th. After that, in the spirit of the holiday season, the lights can be viewed every night from 5pm – 9pm, December 16th – January 1, 2012
Warm wishes to you and yours this Thanksgiving and enjoy your visit to Chicago!
If not, look no further the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel and our very own chef Krista Lotesto! We are offering a $48/per person Thanksgiving 2011 Prix Fixe Menu at our very own NIX restaurant. Reservations are highly recommended so do not hesitate to call today. (312) 751-8100.
Start your day at 9am on Thanksgiving morning by taking part in the 34th Annual Turkey Trot 8K Run/Walk in Lincoln Park. Make sure you Sign up to register at http://turkeytrotchicago.com. In the spirit of the season, bring a couple cans of food to the race to donate to Greater Chicago Food Depository to help feed Chicago’s less Fortunate
After your delicious meal, work off those calories by heading over to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park, which is located at Michigan Ave and Washington St. The rink officially opens on Friday November 18th and does not close until Sunday March 11, 2012. There is a $10 charge for skate rental however there is no charge for admission, so bring you camera and bring your best ice dancing moves.
Travelers from near and far enjoy a tradition takes that place from November 23rd-December 24th at Daley Plaza – 15th year of Christkindlmarket Chicago. This is a German market where you can find a variety of authentic fare such as potato pancakes, sausages, pretzels, beer and the hot spiced wine called “Gluhwein” which will warm the cockles of your heart on a chilly winter’s day. If you have a sweet tooth there is a standalone building filled with hundreds of German candies and bakery treats!
After a little noshing, you can do a little holiday shopping; there are numerous vendors that sell favorites such as the ever popular nutcrackers, as well as ornaments, clothing and beer steins. Tables are set up outside if you are hearty enough to brave some of those winter days, but there are also tents set up if you need a place to thaw out with some hot wine! Hours are: Sunday – Thursday: 11am – 8pm, Friday & Saturday: 11Am – 9pm. Holiday hours for Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2011 and Christmas Eve, December 24, 2011 is 11am – 4pm.
If you are looking for more outdoor adventure head north to Lincoln Park Zoo (LPZ) to see the Zoo Lights – where you can visit the animals at the zoo while enjoying almost 2 million twinkling lights. You can drive (paid Parking lot) but it is much easier to take public transportation to LPZ. The zoo is open 365 days a year and is FREE every day; something very few zoos around the country can offer. Zoo Lights start on November 25th every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night through December 11th. After that, in the spirit of the holiday season, the lights can be viewed every night from 5pm – 9pm, December 16th – January 1, 2012
Warm wishes to you and yours this Thanksgiving and enjoy your visit to Chicago!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Scenery, Shopping and Santa, OH My!
Make the most of you visit to Chicago by taking in some of the best of the city has to offer!
Just steps away from you stay at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago; there is an endless array of shops and boutiques as well as world class restaurants on Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile. Day or night there are breathtaking view from the 95th and 96th floors of the John Hancock Tower, the Signature Room and Lounge, or if you make your way to Navy Pier, check out the Chicago Skyline by taking a ride on the 150 foot-high Ferris wheel.
One of the biggest events of the holiday season takes place on November 19th – The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. A family favorite, Mickey and Minnie lead the parade to light up Michigan Avenue while Santa makes a surprise appearance at the end to kick off the holiday celebration!
Now for those of you that are sports minded, you have come to the right city!
Chicagoans are fiercely loyal to their sports teams, especially when it comes to football and the Monsters of the Midway… aka... The Chicago Bears.
So far we have been very lucky with our fall weather; however the Bears could use some of that luck to improve their record from 3-3. The Bears will be back at home to rumble with the Detroit Lions on November 13th at noon. There is no bigger thrill than to watch punt and kickoff returner Devin Hester zigzag down the field for a touchdown.
You can also catch the Bears at Soldier Field on November 20th when they play the San Diego Chargers. We take pride in our winter games, especially against warm weather teams… and we do not have a dome, so bundle up.
If hockey is your sport of choice, you must get to the United Center on West Madison to see the 2010 Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks. You need to experience the National Anthem being sung by Jim Cornelison at the United Center – his rendition is second to none.
Then to the main event to watch as Team Captain Jonathan Toews leads superstars Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp and “the man who Lost 7 Teeth” Duncan Keith, to Victory. Their Schedule of home games for November are 11th (Flames), 13th (Oilers), and 29th (Coyotes).
Make the most of your stay in Chicago at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel!
Just steps away from you stay at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago; there is an endless array of shops and boutiques as well as world class restaurants on Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile. Day or night there are breathtaking view from the 95th and 96th floors of the John Hancock Tower, the Signature Room and Lounge, or if you make your way to Navy Pier, check out the Chicago Skyline by taking a ride on the 150 foot-high Ferris wheel.
One of the biggest events of the holiday season takes place on November 19th – The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. A family favorite, Mickey and Minnie lead the parade to light up Michigan Avenue while Santa makes a surprise appearance at the end to kick off the holiday celebration!
Now for those of you that are sports minded, you have come to the right city!
Chicagoans are fiercely loyal to their sports teams, especially when it comes to football and the Monsters of the Midway… aka... The Chicago Bears.
So far we have been very lucky with our fall weather; however the Bears could use some of that luck to improve their record from 3-3. The Bears will be back at home to rumble with the Detroit Lions on November 13th at noon. There is no bigger thrill than to watch punt and kickoff returner Devin Hester zigzag down the field for a touchdown.
You can also catch the Bears at Soldier Field on November 20th when they play the San Diego Chargers. We take pride in our winter games, especially against warm weather teams… and we do not have a dome, so bundle up.
If hockey is your sport of choice, you must get to the United Center on West Madison to see the 2010 Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks. You need to experience the National Anthem being sung by Jim Cornelison at the United Center – his rendition is second to none.
Then to the main event to watch as Team Captain Jonathan Toews leads superstars Patrick Kane, Patrick Sharp and “the man who Lost 7 Teeth” Duncan Keith, to Victory. Their Schedule of home games for November are 11th (Flames), 13th (Oilers), and 29th (Coyotes).
Make the most of your stay in Chicago at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel!
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