Chicago 2009
I know it has been over a week since Tim and I got back so I'm finally getting to the Chicago trip update. Basically, it was great. We had beautiful weather, no major transportation problems, and Scott and Audrey took good care of us. Thanks!
Friday:
- Amtrak train from St. Paul to Chicago. Tim loved the trains
- Metra train (Commuter train) from downtown Chicago to Scott's apartment.
Lessons Learned: Communication with Taxi drivers is very important. The Chicago Metra system needs maps on their trains and a better system for communicating upcoming stops.
Saturday with Scott and Audrey:
- Shedd Aquarium
- Field Museum
- Blue Man Group This was the highlight of the trip for me. SOOO much fun.
Lessons Learned: By the time everyone gets up and you get to your first destination it is time for lunch. Public transportation takes time. A train packed with drunk Bears fans makes the conductor a very frustrated busy man.
Sunday with Scott: Audrey didn't feel well and went home early. :(
- Willis (Sears) Tower
- Navy Pier
- Architectural Boat Tour
Lessons Learned: The Willis Tower line takes forever, but it still has really great views. Loose plans that can be changed are best, this is how we ended up on an awesome boat tour.
Monday with Scott:
- Six Flags Great America
Realizations: Six Flags was busy because many schools hadn't started yet. Six Flags was understaffed because many colleges already had. Once we started thinking like regular amusement park goers instead of spoiled riders we had a much better day. Raging Bull and Superman are really good rides.
Tuesday with Tim's family:
- Museum of Science and Industry
The Day: Meeting up with Tim's family went well and it was nice to see them. There really are some nice people in Chicago. A helpful man told us which bus was best for getting back. It saved us a lot of time. Although Tim and I did manage to get to the Museum alright.
Wednesday:
-Amtrak back to St. Paul
Lessons Learned: Bringing Subway sandwiches along works very well for dinner. Freight traffic causes significant delays, but traveling by train is still a very good way to go. It's always good to be home.