Jazzin' at the Shedd!

Being from a small town in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the experience of living in the city has been very exciting for me. While interning at HI-Chicago, I have met people from all over the world as well as created close relationships with my fellow interns. The city life doesn’t leave much room for down time and between the festivals, museums, concerts and famous Chicago landmarks, we have kept ourselves very busy. One of the more unique experiences I have had took place at the Shedd Aquarium, part of Chicago’s Museum Campus. The Jazzin’ at the Shedd event combines animal gazing and live jazz music creating a wonderful social atmosphere!

This Chicago tradition takes place every Wednesday evening in the summer, transforming the typically crowded and noisy aquarium into a calm and classy environment. To match the mood of the jazz music that plays in the background, the lights are dimmed and candles throughout the area give off an extra flicker of light. Small tables draped with bright white tablecloths surround the 360 degree tank located in the center of the aquarium, home to a giant sea turtle, string rays, sharks and many others. While taking part in Jazzin’ at the Shedd, we explored the Oceanarium, the Wild Reef and Caribbean Reef displays as well as the homes of creatures from waters around the world. Next, we ventured out to the terrace for jazz music performed by the some of the areas best bands. This was also a chance to purchase food and drinks to accompany the music. However, the best part of the experience for me wasn’t the animals or the music; it was the breathtaking view of the city from the terrace of the Shedd.

The museum campus, which is also home to the Field Museum and the Alder Planetarium, is, in my opinion, the best place to enjoy the view of the city. As the sun sets, it creates beautiful colors in the sky that illuminate the tall buildings. This location also provides a great view of one of Chicago’s biggest assets, Lake Michigan. As you look past the hundreds of boats that fill the harbor, the endless amounts of calm, deep blue water takes you in. With the incredible view and jazz music in the background, you can’t help but feel at ease.

If the view captures you long enough, you will be graced with the sight of the beautiful fireworks being set off at Navy Pier. With the Chicago skyline to your left and colorful fireworks filling the sky to your right, how could you not be in your happy place? The combination of the animals, music, the view and fireworks makes this event a perfect way to spend a Chicago summer evening. Jazzin’ at the Shedd is an experience that can be shared with your family, friends or even a date! Because the city has so much to offer, visitors (and even residents) must choose what they want to do. Take it from me, Jazzin’ at the Shedd is an event that you don’t want to miss!

Adventures at the Field Museum!

As a summer intern for HI-Chicago, I have had the luxury of exploring the massive city and its wealth of fun-filled experiences at my own pace- attending festivals and concerts, window shopping all types of stores, and eating at various interesting places along the way. However, upon realizing my summer stay was soon to expire, I noticed I had yet to embrace one of Chicago’s greatest assets- its fantastic selection of museums! So this past Monday I embarked on my first museum mission to the Field Museum of Natural History.

The Field Museum is located in Chicago’s stunning lake-side Museum Campus, which also houses the Shedd Aquarium and Alder Planetarium. (The path along the lake in this area provides an absolutely stunning view of the city, especially in the evening). The museum building opened in 1921 and operates under the mission of the “accumulation and dissemination of knowledge, and the preservation and exhibition of objects illustrating art, archaeology, science and history”. To achieve this purpose, the Field Museum plays host to several elaborate and informative exhibits that feature archeological wonders such as the Sue, the most complete T-Rex dinosaur ever unearthed, as well as a diverse collection of artifacts to represent the history of nature, animals, plants and rocks. The museum also features sectors such as the DNA Discovery Center, Mammoths and Mastodons: Titans of the Ice Age, and Climate Change. Yet, I myself didn’t even manage to make it to any of those exhibits, for I was too wrapped up in my first stop at the Ancient Americas.

I chose to visit the museum of the second Monday of the month, which conveniently happens to be free general admission day… great news! As I climbed the grand marble steps and waited to receive a hand stamp, I realized that I would be spending the next couple of hours navigating through swarms of young children trying to touch, push, and squeal their way through the halls. Yet, one should not be deterred by such activity, for these children are merely the pawns of good-intentioned parents! So alas, I found myself smiling patiently and enjoying the company, a demeanor (or perhaps a warning) I recommend to anyone choosing to visit a Chicago museum on its designated free day. But alas, my fellow museum-goers quickly lost importance as the magnificent new permanent exhibition called The Ancient Americas swept me along its information-laden corridors. I was taken on a journey through 13,000 years of human development, through hundreds of diverse (both in culture and time period) societies all throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Within this 19,000-square-foot area, I witnessed replica villages and empires and all they included, from archaic bowls and plates to intensive social structures that are remarkably similar to those we today find in great cities like Chicago! Thanks to the museum’s very thorough and interesting presentation and analysis of history, I not only reviewed all my years of history class, but also gained a new appreciation for human ingenuity and survival throughout the ages. I especially enjoyed the Powerful Leaders section where I investigated the rise of the Hopewell people, a civilization flourishing in our very own Mid-Western region between 200 BCE and 500 CE. It was exciting to learn about not only their well-developed trade system, but also that it was happening in the very area of Chicago. Indeed, I experienced a heightened sense of curiosity and enthusiasm as I explored the exhibit, something that I just could not attain as a sixth grader more concerned with soccer practices and Four Square games. So I encourage anyone visiting Chicago to venture over to Museum Campus for a delightful view of the city, and more importantly, a great educational experience unlike anything you learned in history class!

Neighborhood Spotlight: Logan Square

Logan Square has long been home to immigrant populations & is now predominantly Hispanic (although Polish can still be heard on the streets). Logan Square is graced with a system of tree-lined boulevards and squares, including the one for which the community is named. Today, LS exhibits a vital ethnic and economic diversity. Although the neighborhood is facing issues of gentrification (more affluent moving in and economically pushing lower-income people out), there is no doubt that it is culturally thriving with diversity and an influx of great restaurants, bars, and galleries.

- KNOWN FOR: Historic architecture; Hispanic population; gentrifying hipster culture; green boulevards; farmer’s market during the summer months

- DON’T MISS: Lula’s Café (2537 N Kedzie) for local, organic, and creative food; The Whistler (2421 N Milwaukee Avenue) for specialty cocktails & free or cheap music; Logan Theater (2646 N Milwaukee Ave), where second-run movies are $5; Taqueria Moran (2226 N California Ave), for cheap, fast, & delicious Mexican food; Revolution Brewing Co (2323 N Milwaukee Ave), a new Chicago brewery and restaurant; the Logan Square Farmer's Market (on Logan Blvd, east of Milwaukee Ave), every Sunday from June 6 until October 31 from 10am-3pm.

- GET THERE: Take the Blue Line (towards O’Hare) to California or Logan Square

Neighborhood Spotlight: Wicker Park

Developed by European entrepreneurs moving to the outskirts of the city after the great Chicago fire of 1871, Wicker Park is rich in history. Walk the quiet, tree-lined streets to look at beautiful Victorian era homes along Hoyne, Pierce, and LeMoyne Streets. After a process of gentrification and renovation in the 1980s and 90s, the main arteries of Milwaukee, North, and Damen streets now host an upbeat, artistic, and stylish urban population.

- KNOWN FOR: Endless nightlife options; trendy restaurants; funky boutiques; resale shops; art galleries; eclectic residents; and Victorian-era architecture.

- DON’T MISS: Violet Hour (1520 N Damen Ave) for the best cocktails in town in a speak-easy atmosphere; Double Door (1572 N. Milwaukee Ave) a classic medium-sized music venue; Piece (1927 W North Ave) a pizzeria/brewery with live music and karaoke; Myopic Books (1564 N Milwaukee Ave) one of Chicago's oldest and largest used bookstores; Smoke Daddy (1804 W. Division St) for awesome BBQ food and live blues or jazz music every night.

- GET THERE: Take the Blue Line train (towards O’Hare) to the Damen or Division stop.

A Win for Chicago

If you managed to come even remotely close to downtown Chicago today (which may indeed have been difficult considering the massive inflow of people currently swarming our streets) I’m sure you noticed an oddly high ratio of people sporting red and black clothing, face paint, flags, tattoos, you name it. Now, as a newcomer to the city myself, I wouldn’t have had the slightest inkling of an idea as to why so much red and black, had it not been for the constant energy vibrating through the city for the past two weeks that I’ve been here. Having never been a sports fan before, I found myself actually watching every game of the series, for the enthusiasm radiating from the city’s residents drew me right into the excitement of it all! And so, what’s going on exactly? The Stanley Cup Final of course! The Chicago Blackhawks, our NHL team, succeeded in earning the giant silver award on Wednesday night, resulting in the sprawling, enthusiastic mayhem today.

The Blackhawks played a total of six games against the Philadelphia Flyers, and managed to win the seven game series with a 4-3 game that finally ended after an exhilarating overtime period. The triumphant Chicago team had much to celebrate, this being their first cup win since 1961. And certainly, Chicagoans were going to allow their beloved team to bask in glory by themselves. And, being a new arrival to this great city, I didn’t want to be left out of the celebration myself!

So I joined the wildly excited fans in cheering on the team as they paraded down Michigan Ave and made their way proudly to the stage in front of thousands upon thousands of people. Foghorns blast, airplanes flew, bands played, and confetti poured from the skies as I stood amidst excited fans. And the fans themselves presented quite the spectacle, with some in full costumes and others all too revealed. (Which I must tell you is not a pleasant experience for fellow fans when the temperature rises to 90 degrees!) But hot, sweaty weather aside, the rally was a truly Chicago experience, something I’m glad to have witnessed and partaken in, for I aim at becoming a Chicagoan- proud, passionate, and happy to be here.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is Chicago’s beautiful and historic lakefront neighborhood, with something for everyone. In the winter, you can spend your time indoors at the Peggy Notebart Nature Museum (check out the butterfly room!) or the Chicago History Museum. Lincoln Park becomes a paradise of outdoor fun in the summer, with tons of activity in Lincoln Park, the gigantic park for which the neighborhood was named, and at North Avenue Beach, the city’s premiere beach. The neighborhood is home to DePaul University and exudes a college vibe, evident in the many options for nightlife along Lincoln Avenue. Whether you want to check out local nightlife, explore museums, get active outdoors, or just walk a quiet street admiring the architecture of beautiful homes, you’ll surely enjoy Lincoln Park.

KNOWN FOR: Collegiate atmosphere; beautiful parks; upscale retailers; sports bars; affluent residents

CAN’T MISS: Lincoln Park Zoo (2001 N Clark St) which is free; Kingston Mines (2548 North Halsted St), one of the biggest & best blues clubs in the city; Steppenwolf Theater (1650 N Halsted St), Chicago’s world-class theater company; Chicago’s Dog House (816 W Fullerton) for a Chicago hot dog.

GET THERE: Take the train: Red Line (towards Howard) to Fullerton or Brown Line to Armitage.

Chinatown

CHINATOWN

Chicago’s Chinese population originally lived in the Loop area, but relocated to a then-Italian neighborhood south of downtown around 1912. Today, Chinatown is home to more than 30% of Chicago’s Chinese population, and its crowded streets are lined with exotic restaurants and authentic Chinese vendors. Starting at the Chinatown Gate next to the Red Line Cermak-Chinatown stop, walk down Wentworth Avenue, Cermak Road, and Archer Avenue for the best shopping and treats. 

 KNOWN FOR: The bustling epicenter of Chicago’s Chinese population; authentic restaurants and bakeries; great place to purchase cookware and fun souvenirs.

 DON’T MISS: Double Li Restaurant (228 W Cermak) for a great BYOB option; Lao Sze Chuan (2172 S Archer) for a spicy menu; Giftland (2212 S Wentworth Ave), a fun store with good gifts, especially for kids; Chinatown Market (2121 S Archer Ave), the biggest grocery store in Chinatown; Chui Quon Bakery (2242 S Wentworth Ave) for Asian pork buns & egg custard tarts.

 GET THERE: Take the Red Line train (direction: 95th/Dan Ryan) to the Cermak/Chinatown stop.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Devon Avenue

The busy hub of Chicago’s Indian and Pakistani population, the stretch of Devon Avenue between California and Ridge Streets, is bursting with exotic colors, smells, and tastes. Now home to the nation’s 3rd largest concentration of Indian residents, the neighborhood’s influx began with graduate students and professionals from India and Pakistan after the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965. Since then, Devon has burgeoned into the headquarters of Indian and Pakistani life in Chicago. Check out Devon (or “Little India,” as some call it) for authentic restaurants, grocery stores, boutiques, Sari shops, jewelry stores, salons, and the best place in Chicago to find Hindi films.

 KNOWN FOR: South Asian cuisine and merchandise, specifically Indian and Pakistani.

 DON’T MISS: Udupi Palace (2543 W Devon Ave) for southern Indian vegetarian cooking; Sabri Nehari Restaurant (2502 W Devon Ave) for the neighborhood’s best Pakistani food; Hema’s Kitchen (2439 W Devon Ave) for Indian food and a BYOB (bring your own beer) policy; Tahoori Sweets & Bakery (2345 W Devon Ave) for samosas and sweets; Deeba Beauty Salon (2752 W Devon Ave) for $5 eyebrow threading.

 GET THERE: Take the Brown Line train to the Western stop. Transfer

The Great Chicago Fire

It was hot and dry evening in early October 1871 when Chicago burst into flames. Although the origin of the fire is forever lost in urban legend, the destruction was very real with the wooden shops and hotels of downtown being reduced to ashes. Even City Hall burned down. The raging fire crossed the Chicago River and jumped from roof to roof as citizen ran toward safety of the Lake Michigan. In the end, a third of the city's worth had burned down.

The map below shows the area of the damage.


Yet as traumatic as the Great Fire was, the event turned out to be an incredible opportunity for Chicago as businessmen and land speculators eagerly set out to rebuilding the city beyond its former glory. Like a phoenix, Chicago emerged as a thriving metropolis once again. The event lives on in the life of Chicago and its citizens who view any challenge as an opportunity.

Cold Cold Chicago

The coldest temperature ever recorded in Chicago is -27°F (-33°C) on January 20, 1985, with a wind chill of -83°F (-64°C). Although this was certainly an extraordinary occasion, freezing temperatures and snow are common during the winter months of December, January and February. Being unprepared for the weather can be very unpleasant and even painful when exploring the city. Make sure you have adequate clothing for the frigid conditions. A hat, scarf and gloves are a necessity. If you were caught off guard and need some mittens you can check out the nearby H&M for some relatively cheap fashions.



Yet don't let the temperature keep you inside for the winter has its own charming beauty. A layer of fresh snow makes the city look incredibly pristine and pure. Unfortunately, that unspoiled and faultless image will soon turn into street gutters full of slush so don't forget your boots!

When your toes and fingertips get too numb to continue stop by Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea for the best hot drinks in downtown Chicago.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Pilsen

The history of Pilsen is like the history of Chicago. A neighborhood marked by history and transformation.

Although originally settled by Germans and Irish by the 1800's, the area had attracted a large Czech community who came to work in the nearby factories and stockyards. They named their neighborhood after Plzen, a city in the Czech Republic. Their presence in Pilsen is still embodied in Thalia Hall (1892), which served as a community center and dance hall. Today, the building has been restored and hosts a new resturant streetside.


In the early 1900's, Pilsen experienced an influx of Polish residents, the most recent immigrants to Chicago. The community erected a Church St. Adalbert (1914), which continues to stand and dominate the Pilsen Skyline.

Since the 1960's, Pilsen became home to a large Mexican-American Community and today the Latino character remains vibrant in the neighborhood. The district is livened with large murals, authenitic little resturants and boasts the National Museum of Mexican Art (free daily except Mondays).


The most recent change in Pilsen has been the influx of artists and professionals, creating fears of displacement among the Mexican community. Galleries, boutiques and trendy bars are increasingly common in Pilsen serving this new community. On the 2nd friday of the month (Dec 11th) artist studios and galleries hold openings and receptions for the public. For more information click here.


Pilsen is highly accesible with the Pink Line's 18th street station taking you to the heart of the neighborhood. For more ideas on things to do in Pilsen click here or here.

Willis Tower

 

Willis Tower, formerly named Sears Tower, is a 108-story 1,450 feet (442 m) skyscraper that dominates the skyline of Chicago. From its time of completion in 1973 to 1998, it was the tallest building in the world. Although it has been surpassed by towers in Asia, it remains the tallest building in the United States and one of Chicago's most popular attractions.

     

With the Hostel International discount, it costs only 11$ to go up to the 103rd floor observation deck. On a clear day, the spectacular view stretches for over 40 miles! This past year the observation deck added four glass-bottomed balconies nicknamed "The Ledge" where you can straight down as if you were standing on thin air.

For more information visit:

www.the-skydeck.com/

Uniqueness of Hyde Park

by Intern Ted Gault

Barack Obama's election as the 44th President of the United States will forever be the pride of Chicago, but Obama's fame has also brought great attention to Hyde Park, the Chicago neighborhood where the President has spent most of his adult life. Surrounded by some of the poorest and most dangerous areas in Chicago, Hyde Park is a culturally, economically, and racially diverse enclave in the South Side with much more to offer a visitor than Obama haunts.

Before Obama's arrival in the neighborhood in 1984, Hyde Park had already hosted the monumental World Columbian Exposition of 1893, the first self-sustaining nuclear reaction in 1942, and the architectural prowess of architects such as Daniel Burnam, Henry Ives Cobb (designer of the University of Chicago's stunning Inner Quadrangle) and Frank Lloyd Wright. Hyde Park's municipal, and even national, uniqueness doesn't end with historical footnotes; today it is one of the most successfully integrated neighborhoods in the United States.

In the late 1950s, Hyde Park was transformed by a decade of deliberate urban renewal that displaced forty percent of its population. Like many community areas at the time, Hyde Park was facing economic and infrastructural decline, increased crime rates, and general "white flight". Residents of Hyde Park partnered with the University of Chicago to turn Hyde Park into a semi-suburban bastion on the South Side. The aim was to welcome people of all races and religions, as long as they weren't, to put it bluntly, poor. The result of the controversial process was a community that one reporter called "the most racially integrated neighborhood in the nation's most segregated city". With significant populations of whites, blacks and Asians, as well as Christians, Muslims and Jews, Hyde Park has a rich diversity that few other neighborhoods can claim.

Barack Obama won the 2008 election largely by his promise to change politics to better represent the diverse multicultural and racial interests inherent in the United States. Considering Hyde Park's unique traits, it is now obvious why Obama chose to start his political life there. Hyde Park is one of those rare places where one can find people from all walks of life eating in one place; blacks and whites, blue collar and white collar, Christians and Muslims, young and old (See it for yourself at Valois on 53rd). A flagship for his message of racial and religious harmony, Hyde Park was Obama's neighborhood before he even set foot in Chicago.

Ted's summer project was to create a Hyde Park tour, which he gave every Friday during the summer. In the process, he learned a lot about the neighborhood. If you'd like to learn more about one of the most interesting neighborhoods in Chicago, take Ted's tour! Meet at the hostel at 10am on Fridays (be sure to check the events calendar to ensure that the tour is going on).