Merrillville, IN Local Area Information

With Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, and skyscrapers galore, Chicago offers riveting views at virtually every turn. For the adventurous at heart, the best way to see the big city is by literally taking it on. You’ll stay in Lincoln Park, located north of the Chicago Loop and very close to the Lake for proximity to adventures both indoor and out. With biking, boating, walking, and lots of ea... (read more - PDF guide)

Chicago is a city filled with eateries, and these 10 spots deliver morning meals that do not disappoint. From coffee served with hipster sass to beignets prepared by friendly southerners, the food at these places is truly an experience. Whether you're in the mood for outdoor seating, family seating, live music, or a quiet place to read the paper over pancakes, Chicago's breakfast joints provide ... (read more - PDF guide)

Traveling is not always easy on the pocketbook; fortunately, there are plenty of ways to experience Chicago without going broke. The 10 picks on this list range from free to cheap to comfortably affordable while still delivering top notch quality. From barbecue to Bonsai trees- from hot dogs to hip bands- there is something well-priced for most any budget traveler to enjoy. Photo: marya ... (read more - PDF guide)

What better way to end a long day of sight-seeing or business meetings than with some good old-fashioned fun. Chicago is chock full of clubs and hot spots for cutting loose and kicking back into the wee hours. Whether you're in the mood to get your drink on, your dance on, or even throw a few bowling balls, there are some solid picks on this list. And for those less inclined toward conversation... (read more - PDF guide)

Chicagoans love to eat. Deep dish pizza and hot dogs are the signatures, but cuisine from all over the globe is cooked daily in Chicago kitchens. From Japanese to Brazilian, these ten restaurants highlight the diverse ethnic influences on Chicago's cuisine while also showcasing the best of the hometown classics (you really can't visit the city without at least ONE slice of cheesy stuffed deep di... (read more - PDF guide)

Chicago is an extremely musical city. Local bands in all genres have shot to national and international stardom, and touring groups always make a point to stop in the windy city. Whether you're in the mood for a quiet, sit-down experience or a rockin' dance party, there is a great venue to suit your needs. Ranging from tiny to enormous, all-ages to adult nightclub, these 10 venues are Chicago's... (read more - PDF guide)

Chicago is an artsy city with theater and dance companies in abundance. Just as the companies vary in size and artistic aim, so do the venues that house them. These 10 theater spaces provide unique experiences for their audiences and are all quality venues in their own right. Whether looking for a small modern dance concert or a huge touring Broadway production, you'll be sure to find a theater... (read more - PDF guide)

You've been out late enjoying the plethora of Chicago bars and have worked up quite the appetite. Chicago being the drinking city it is, certainly has the late night eat locales to satisfy your cravings in the wee hours of the morning. Whether you are craving Mexican, diner food, Chicago pizza, or hot dogs, there is a restaurant ready and waiting to serve you nearby, and these won't all just be gr... (read more - PDF guide)

The Windy City can be harsh, but there are many warm and cozy places to snuggle up with your best bud. Spend the day enjoying each other's company in Chicago's northern neighborhoods without too time out in the cold. Good food, good movies, good music, and good surroundings are sure to make this day reap some good love. read more about Romantic Chicago: Keep each other cozy in the Windy City (read more - PDF guide)

Who doesn't love free stuff? Especially when traveling, freebies can make an experience so much sweeter. These 10 free activities will show you some of Chicago's best features without feeling like cheap hand-outs. Chi-town's museums all have a free day (or at least a range of free hours), and the zoo animals, plant life, and gorgeous grassy areas of the city can all be experienced without openi... (read more - PDF guide)