Tom’s Top Five in Chicago

This year, Taha “Tom” Alaraj is welcoming visitors to the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel for the 39^th year in a row, earning the title “Mayor of Walton Place” by returning guests and neighborhood locals. Today, Tom shares his top “must-sees” for Chicago visitors.

By Taha “Tom” Alaraj

Oak Street Beach

Formed from sand washing up against the northern side of “Streeterville,” Oak Street Beach is known by the locals as the best beach in all of Chicago. Located off of Michigan Avenue below the majestic skyline, this pristine stretch of sand offers is a haven to inline skaters, cyclists, volleyball enthusiasts and, of course, sunbathers.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo located in Lincoln Park, a world of wildlife in the shadow of skyscrapers. One of the nation’s oldest zoos, Lincoln Park Zoo houses 1200 animals representing 230 species. The zoo also holds yoga classes on “Nature Boardwalk,” and hosts a children’s zoo and paddleboats for visitors.

John Hancock Observatory

Located on the 94th floor of the John Hanckock Center, the John Hancock Observatory is complete with full 360 degree views of the city, up to four states and over 80 miles. The Observatory has Chicago’s only open-air SkyWalk and also features a free multimedia tour in six languages, narrated by actor David Schwimmer. Savor the views with the Millennium Knickerbocker’s Skyline Dining Package, which includes a $50 gift card to The Signature Room on the 95th floor.

Art Institute of Chicago

The world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago, located in Grant Park, houses both a museum and school. Housing one of the world’s most notable collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art in its permanent collection, its diverse holdings also include significant Old Master works, American art, European and American decorative arts, Asian art and modern and contemporary art. At one million square feet, it is the second largest art museum in the United States.

Chicago Cultural Center

As the nation’s first free municipal cultural center, the Chicago Cultural Center is one of the city’s most popular attractions and is considered one of the most comprehensive arts showcases in the United States. The stunning landmark building, completed in 1897 as Chicago’s first central public library, is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes, as well as more than 1,000 programs and exhibitions from free music, dance and theater events, films, lectures, art exhibitions and family events each year.