Jaunted

Guidebook Says: "No visit is complete without sampling a messy Italian beef sandwich, or a Chicago-style hot dog, laden with tomatoes, onions, hot peppers, and a pickle. " -- Rough Guide to the USA

Jaunted Says: Do not mess with a Chicago hot dog. It has to be a whole pickle, slices; add to the above listed mustard but not ketchup, relish and celery salt, and put it all on a poppy-seed bun. Just be glad the fearsome Mother-in-Law isn't a standard.

Guidebook Says: "Water Tower Place launched the city's love affair with vertical shopping centers. Many locals swear this first one remains the best one." -- Lonely Planet

Jaunted Says: Locals tell tourists that to get them to go away. But for the C.O. Bigelow store and American Girl Place, this place is a hole proudly featuring the same stuff you can get in Overland Park. For some real steals, try Lakeview, the home of Hollywood Mirror.

Guidebook Says: "Even if you're pressed for time, you can't leave town without seeing a few of the city's important buildings." -- Fodor's

Jaunted Says: Okay, we agree with that completely, but Fodor's neglects the best way to see the skyscrapers in season: The Chicago Architecture Foundation's river cruises (beginning May 2). Between the trivia-bank guides and the stunning panoramas, it beats standing in the shadow of the Sears Tower any day.

Related Stories:
· IOC Calls City's Bid "Strong" [Chicago Sun-Times]
· Historical Hauntings in Chicago [Jaunted]
· Hot Dogs at Hot Doug's [Jaunted]

[Photo: Springsun]