The West Loop neighborhood, in particular, has become a popular landing spot for celebrity chefs. Food & Wine magazine named it one of the 10 Best Restaurant Cities in the world in 2008. In recent years, the Windy City has garnered lots of attention for its cutting-edge culinary scene. It’s not all about hot dogs and deep-dish pizza anymore.
![best black friday deals 2015 chciago best black friday deals 2015 chciago](https://www.thriftynorthwestmom.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Harbor-Freight-Black-Friday-2015-Ad.jpg)
Consider relying instead on the L, Chicago’s elevated train, or taxis-especially if you’re only in town a short while.
![best black friday deals 2015 chciago best black friday deals 2015 chciago](http://code-ala-mode.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/1218_BF_CAH_email.gif)
Best time to visit: between Memorial Day and Labor Day.On one side, you’ve got sparkling Lake Michigan, and, on the other, a string of show-stopping skyscrapers and the city’s “front yard,” Grant Park, home to the Lollapalooza festival and Buckingham Fountain. For a quick intro to what makes Chicago great, it’s hard to beat a ride down Lake Shore Drive, the 19-mile stretch of road running along the city’s eastern edge.