Fodors Chicago 2014

Chicago has an excellent network of buses and trains, which are collectively called the El (for elevated, which many of them are). The combination should bring you within mile of any place youd like to go. Those accustomed to cities will likely be comfortable on any train, anytime. Others may want to take extra caution after 11 pm. Buses are almost always safe; there are several express buses running from downtown to destinations like the Museum of Science and Industry.

As of this writing, the fare for the bus is $2, the train is $2.25, and a transfer is 25 with a Transit Card; if youre paying cash, all rides are $2.25. Travelers may want to get a Visitor Pass at their hotel, airport CTA stations, or any visitor center. These passes allow unlimited rides for a small fee, and are worth it as long as you take three trips a day.

For directions to specific places via public transportation, for public transportation maps, and for places to buy Transit Cards, see www.transitchicago.com .

If you drive downtown, park in one of the giant city-owned parking lots underneath Millennium Park or by the Museum Campus, which charge a flat fee. Private lots usually cost double.

Chicago Cultural Center. | 77 E. Randolph St. | 60602 | 312/7446630 | www.cityofchicago.org | Mon.Thurs. 97, Fri. and Sat. 96, Sun. 105 .

Chicago Water Works. | 163 E. Pearson St. , at Michigan Ave. | 60611 | 312/7428811 | www.choosechicago.com | Jan.Mar. 15, daily 105; Mar. 16June and Sept.Dec., Mon.Sat. 9:306, Sun. 105; JuneSept., Mon.Thurs. 97, Fri. and Sat. 96, Sun. 106 .

Millennium Park Welcome Center. | 201 E. Randolph St. , in the Northwest Exelon Pavilion, between Michigan Ave., and Columbus Ave., Loop | 60601 | 312/7421168 | www.millenniumpark.org | Daily 6 am11 pm .

Chicago is a city of about 2.8 million people, most of whom have good intentions. Still, it is a big city. It pays to be cautious and aware of your surroundings at all times.

Put down the cell phone and remove your earphones when strolling city streets or riding public transit. Hide valuables and flashy jewelry when youre out and about, or, better yet, leave them at home. Keep your purse or bags close to you and in clear view in restaurants and in bars. Never leave your belongings unattended, especially on trains or buses. Be polite but insistent with panhandlers. Legitimate vendors of StreetWise the citys nonprofit magazine benefiting the homelessshould be able to provide an official badge. (The magazine sells for $2.)

Expect to have your bags and purses searched when entering sports stadiums, museums, and city buildings. You may be asked to show a photo ID at certain downtown buildings.

At night do what you would in any city: know your destination ahead of time, plan your route, and walk with confidence and purpose. Avoid dark or empty streets and skip those tempting shortcuts through the citys many alleys.

Chicago is a city of choices: you can splash out on the fanciest meals and pricey theater tickets or opt for fun activities that dont cost a dime.

If you plan to hit several major attractions, consider a Chicago cityPASS at participating locations or online ( www.citypass.com/chicago ). It will save you a combined total of about $80 on admission to these major attractions: Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, Skydeck Chicago at Willis (Sears) Tower, either the Museum of Science and Industry or John Hancock Center Observatory, and either Adler Planetarium or the Art Institute of Chicago. To save even more, time your museum visit for a day or time when admission is free.

From spring to fall, neighborhood fests and free concerts abound. The most stunning place to catch a free concert is the Frank Gehrydesigned Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park. Daytime and evening concerts showcase everything from classical to jazz to punk rock.

June, September, and October are mild and sunny. November through March the temperature ranges from crisp to bitter, April and May can fluctuate between cold/soggy and bright/warm, and July and August can either be perfect or serve up the deadly combo of high heat and high humidity. That said, the only thing certain about Chicagos weather, according to locals, is that it can change in an instant. If you head to Chicago in warmer months, youll be able to catch some of the fantastic outdoor festivals; during the holiday season the citys decked out in lights.

Most businesses in Chicago are open 106. Some shops stay open as late as 9. Restaurants can be closed Monday, and usually stop serving around 10 pm on weeknights, 11 pm on weekends. There are a few 24-hour diners, but they are rarer than you might expect. Bars close at 2 am or 4 am.

You can avoid the long lines at Chicago museums by buying tickets online at least a day in advance. The most popular architecture tour, led by the Chicago Architecture Foundation, always sells outbe sure to buy tickets in advance.

The Loop, West Loop, and South Loop. Bounded by looping El tracks, the citys business center pulses with professionals scurrying between architectural landmarks. Restaurants and galleries dominate the West Loop; the once-desolate South Loop now teems with college students and condo dwellers.