Lonely Planet Chicago (City Guide)

Boldly rising from the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is the center of American innovation - birthplace of the skyscraper, house music, deep-dish pizza and the Ferris wheel. The urban hub of America's heartland, the city exudes friendliness, creativity, hospitality and straight-talking humor. Our smart, stylish guide will help you discover Chicago your way.

Explore The City - whether surveying Art Institute impressionism, ogling Loop architecture, hanging out in Millennium Park or knocking back beers in Bucktown, our local authors inspire you to explore.

Have Fun - tested tips for finding free music festivals, hot dogs or haute cuisine, sandy lakeshore beaches or great seats at the friendly confines of Wrigley Field.

Go All Night - at avant-garde theaters, stylish West Loop galleries, sultry nightclubs or on a well-worn bar stool with 10 of your new best friends.

Hit The Road - expanded itineraries spotlight the best of the Great Plains, from breweries and bratwurst in Milwaukee to sand dunes and old Victorians on Michigan's Gold Coast.