Cheeky Adventures in Chicago (Day three 2014): A Tale of Towers, Tours, and Tantalising Delis
Early Riser Woes and City Excursions
Ah, the joys of an early start! When you find yourself playing vehicular Tetris in the morning just to let your Julie escape to work, you know it’s going to be a day to remember. Yes, folks, that was the scene in Chicago, August 2014. But fear not, for I heroically awoke in the nick of time to liberate Julie’s car from its automotive prison, now artfully relocated to the visitor bays.
Tube Troubles and Starbucks Pit Stops
With the dawn chorus echoing in our ears, the lads, Michele and I embarked on our urban odyssey into the heart of Chicago. Parking at Forest Park park and ride, we hopped onto the L, that mystical contraption known to outsiders as the city tube/rail link. A mere $5 secured our chariot’s resting place for 12 hours, while a paltry $2.50 granted us passage on the L. Bargain, I tell you, bargain!
Emerging into the daylight at La Salle, we were immediately accosted by the city’s charm. Before I could unfold my trusty map, a dashing young local appeared, offering directions to the iconic Willis Tower. But first, a Starbucks detour for poor Lewis, who was suffering from a caffeine deficiency of catastrophic proportions.
Towering Tales and River Rambles
Alas, the queue for the Willis Tower resembled a biblical exodus, an ordeal not to be endured before our rendezvous with a Chicago greeter. So, we meandered along the riverbank, stumbling upon Macy’s, where Michele promptly succumbed to the siren call of consumerism.
Deli Delights and Architectural Insights
Lunchtime beckoned, and Lewis led us to Toni’s, a modest deli and patisserie located at 65 E Washington St, Chicago that relieved us of $45 in exchange for four baguettes. Was it pricey? Certainly. Was it worth it? Absolutely.
Soon after, our guide Susan materialized, ready to enlighten us with tales of Chicago’s architectural marvels. Three hours of wandering ensued, punctuated by Susan’s enthusiastic monologues and Lewis’s valiant efforts to feign interest.
Sky High Shenanigans and Rainy Road Trips
At last, the time arrived to conquer the Willis Tower. Fast pass tickets in hand, we ascended to the 103rd floor in a mere 70 seconds. The panoramic view of Chicago spread before us like a smorgasbord for the eyes, prompting exclamations of wonder from all.
Josh, ever the savvy shopper, snagged souvenirs from the tower’s gift shop before we hurtled back to ground level, the wind whipping through our hair as we descended.
Homeward Bound, Chicago Style
As we navigated the rain-soaked streets back to Julie’s abode, I embraced my inner Chicagoan driver, executing a daring maneuver on the freeway that would make even the most seasoned locals nod in approval.
Back at base camp, Lewis took charge of dinner duties, conjuring up a delectable chicken and pasta feast for our weary band of adventurers.
And so, dear reader, another day in Chicago drew to a close, filled with laughter, learning, and more than a few culinary delights.
