The Chicago Traveler

October 24th, 2007

Army Navy Surplus

Halloween's coming, and everyone's got ideas of what they want to dress up as. But you don't want to get one of those cheesy, plastic-mask, store-bought costumes. If you want to look authentic, it's time to think outside the box.
If you're considering an outfit that's military-related, stop by the Army Navy Surplus Store (on […]

By Matt B -- 1 comment

October 23rd, 2007

AIBA World Boxing Championships

Unlike the stereotypical guy, I don't actively follow any sports, and there are very few that I'll actually sit and watch. One of those few is boxing. And for the next couple of weeks, hundreds of the world's best amateur boxers will be right here in Chicago for the largest-ever world boxing championships.
The AIBA (Association […]

By Matt B -- 0 comments

October 23rd, 2007

¡Salpicón!

'Salpic'n! in Old Town (a little more than a block south of Wildflowers) is decorated with bright yellow and blue walls and pink-and-white tablecloths, but customers are attracted to this high-end Mexican eatery for more than its colorful atmosphere. In fact, this small yet upscale restaurant is often filled to the brim with fans of […]

By Matt B -- 2 comments

October 22nd, 2007

Pinnacle Tower

Not all of Chicago's eye-catching skyscrapers are office buildings. Towering over St. James Cathedral (and steps away from Oil & Vinegar, David Burke's Primehouse, and Garrett's Popcorn), the Pinnacle Tower was completed in 2004 and has 49 stories, the top four of which are penthouses with large private terraces. Standing at 535 feet (163 m), […]

By Matt B -- 1 comment

October 19th, 2007

Friday Film: Chicago

Chicago (2002)

Directed by:
Rob Marshall

Produced by:
Martin Richards

Starring:
Catherine Zeta-Jones
Ren'e Zellweger
Richard Gere
Queen Latifah
John C. Reilly
Lucy Liu
Taye Diggs
Colm Feore

Distributed by:
Miramax Films

All Movie Guide
IMDb
Amazon.com

When many people think about movies and filming, they often think of Hollywood in Los Angeles or New York, and rightfully so. But Chicago can't be left out, because it too has made a significant contribution to […]

By Matt B -- 3 comments

October 19th, 2007

Butt Out

Smoking is now off limits at beaches and playgrounds in Chicago.
The park district board voted unanimously on Wednesday to pass the ban, which took effect immediately. Police can issue warnings or tickets with a $500 fine to anyone who smokes within 15 feet of a city beach or playground. Susan Sholty, a young mother who […]

By Matt B -- 2 comments

October 18th, 2007

Weekend Quickies

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On Friday, October 19, Y-ME Illinois will honor all those that have been affected by breast cancer and their supporters. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., The Big Night Out at Union Station will raise funds that will allow Y-ME to continue their work in the community, supporting and educating women. […]

By Matt B -- 1 comment

October 18th, 2007

Hot Doug’s

There are literally hundreds of hot dog joints in Chicago, and it can be difficult to discern one from another. However, Hot Doug's has one unique feature that you can see before you even walk inside: a line of hungry patrons that not only falls out the door, but actually crawls around the building! Locals […]

By Matt B -- 3 comments

October 17th, 2007

Urban Shop Guide

Fall is here, and you're going around town still wearing last year's fashions. Shame on you! The temperatures are starting to dip, so why not treat yourself to a new jacket… and maybe a new outfit to go with that jacket… and maybe some new shoes for that outfit… and you can't forget the accessories… […]

By Matt B -- 0 comments

October 16th, 2007

International Chicago: Middle East

Chicago is inhabited by people from around the world, which you can see in its neighborhoods, shops, and restaurants. Take for example the neighborhood just a couple blocks from my apartment: Andersonville. It started as a Swedish community, but if you look around, Middle Eastern spots are popping up too. So let's begin our International […]

By Matt B -- 4 comments