When creating his 1909 plan for the city of Chicago, architect Daniel Burnham envisioned creating a “Paris on the Prairie.” One hundred years later, the beautiful buildings, gorgeous parks, modern galleries, plentiful shopping and modern restos prove you don’t have to cross the Atlantic to get a city-of-lights-worthy mix. The Obamas have become the city’s biggest exports (sorry, Oprah) now that they’ve moved over to the White House. But know that there’s more to their hometown than shopping Michelle’s closet at Ikram.
Day one
9:02 a.m. Chicago’s Midwest location makes it a painless trip from most of Canada’s major cities, many of which are serviced in leather-seat-and-free-spirits luxury by Porter airlines. Time is the enemy on any weekend escape, and Porter flies into the low-key, low-hassle Midway Airport, leaving you more time to explore the city Ferris Bueller–style, and saving you from a disorderly Home Alone dash through O’Hare. (flyporter.com)
12:11 p.m. No Chicago hotel is more steeped in architectural lore than Hotel Burnham. Erected in 1895 by Burnham and his associates, it began its days as an office building—think Al Capone’s shady dentist. Sadly, it fell into disrepair. Once rescued, the extensive reno and restoration took six years to complete, with many of the original fixtures left intact. Check in and have lunch at the Atwood Café, or enjoy the hotel’s early-evening social hour with a glass of complimentary wine. This fall sees the opening of the Block 37 complex across the street, with its movie theatre, shops and restaurants. (1 W. Washington St., 312-782-1111, burnhamhotel.com)
Shown: The Crown Fountain in Millenium Park, designed by artist Jaume Plensa. The Crown Fountain by Peter J. Schulz
First published in FASHION Magazine October 2009
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