Chicago is known as the home of the blues, but it is also home to one the premiere orchestras in the world. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1871, under the direction of Theodore Thomas. In 1905, the CSO moved into Orchestra Home, which has remained their permanent home.  The Orchestra was made over 900 recordings, performed extensively throughout the United States and abroad, and their performances are broadcast to over 200 stations across the country.
As a music student in high school, I was able to attend a performance of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Sir George Solti. They are credited with developing my love for classical music, and they awakened my senses as they gracefully moved through Tchaikovsky's Symphony No.3, 5th Movement and Rossini's William Tell Overture.

The Shedd Aquarium and Oceanarium is also known as the ocean by the sea. It officially opened it's doors in 1930, with salt water brought in from Key West Florida. In 1971, the first of many reconstructions began, with the addition of the Caribbean Coral Reef exhibit. The latest addition was the Oceanarium, completed in 1991 doubled the size of the aquatic museum. The Shedd is now home to over 8,000 aquatic animals from over 650 species from around the world.

Still have more time left in town, and would like to do some more site seeing and relaxing? Then how about...

Tommy Guns Garage for dinner theater. You find Vinnie the Mechanic in the parking lot, and gives you the codeword and directs you to the entrance of the speakeasy. Once inside, you are greeted and frisked in the doorway by one of the hoodlums, toting a large tommy gun. While dining on your choice of steak, or seafood entree, you are entertained by flappers and singers. Audience participation is encouraged, and during the police "raid" for illegal alcohol, you have no way to refuse to become a part of the activities. A fun place to spend an evening and slip back to an era gone by.

Adler Planetarium is located on the shore of Lake Michigan and in 1999 will be unveiling a new addition to the building along with more exhibits. The museum was opened in 1930, as the first planetarium in the country. Their goals remain the same today as they did then - to provide the public with the opportunity to learn more of the Universe around us. The sky show is a "must see", as you learn about the stars and the constellations. In 1999, visitors will be able to see the Dearborn Telescope once again, after it returns from restoration. For many years, the Dearborn was the largest telescope in the world.

Navy Pier has brought a new life to the city, since it's recent renovation. What can you find at the Pier? The chicago Children's Museum, Top Rate Performers at the Skyline Stage, shopping, dining, theater, amusement rides, sightseeing cruises, special events planned for all ages, and trade shows. When you come to Chicago, keep a full day free to explore the pier.

Goose Island Brewery is still located in the original building of in which it began in 1840. It is one of the few buildings that was not destroyed during the Great Chicago Fire. In 1995 they added a second facility on Fulton to handle the increased demand for their products. The location on Clybourn, is now a brewpub, and offers a full dining menu, in addition to tours and beer tastings.