Chicago 2014 – Day Fifteen
A Slow Start to a Sunny Day
Another cracking sunny day in Lisle, and wouldn’t you know it, we lazed about and missed a chunk of it! Typical, right?
I woke up just in time for half-time of Manchester United’s first game of the season. I had a little internal debate about whether it was worth getting up to watch the rest but decided against it. Instead, I kept tabs on the second half through the BBC website and Twitter. Good thing I didn’t bother getting up – United lost at home on the opening day of the season for the first time since 1972! And they blamed Moyes for last season’s mess!
Off to the Windy City
Today, Michele, Josh, and I ventured back into Chicago, making our way to Navy Pier for the Chicago Air and Water Show.
On our way there, we passed what has to be the best advertising billboard I’ve ever seen. Have a gander at the picture below and judge for yourself.
Even on a Saturday morning, the traffic into Chicago was a proper nightmare. But we persevered!
Navy Pier Mayhem
Navy Pier was jam-packed, teeming with people everywhere. We managed to snag some seats amidst the chaos and soaked up some glorious sunshine.
We witnessed what I reckon was an Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor (though I might be wrong!) performing over Lake Michigan. It was followed by an older plane, reminiscent of a spitfire, but I couldn’t be certain but possibly Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor & P-51 D Mustang. They staged a mock dogfight, which was quite the spectacle. The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor also did some thrilling vertical climbs and then plummeted down like a stone before zooming around again.
The Blue Angels’ Spectacular Show
After those two, we were treated to a display by the Blue Angels, the American answer to our British Red Arrows. They soared across Lake Michigan in perfect formation before breaking apart and weaving between the Hancock Tower and the nearby skyscrapers. At one point, one of them zipped unexpectedly over Navy Pier from behind us, giving Michele and Josh quite the fright as the roar echoed over the crowd.
Dinner in Wheaton
This evening, it was just Josh, Michele, and me for tea (that’s dinner to you Americans). We headed towards Wheaton and found ourselves at a quaint little steakhouse. For the first time since we’ve been here, the portions weren’t overwhelming – we cleared our plates!
Reflections and Recommendations
All in all, it was a brilliant day filled with sunshine, excitement, and good company. Chicago never disappoints, whether it’s with its bustling streets, stunning aerial displays, or delicious food. If you ever find yourself in the Windy City, a trip to Navy Pier and catching the Chicago Air and Water Show should be high on your list.
