For all the heat Chicago gets for its frigid temps, it is one spectacular city to experience during the holidays.
The 2010 Magnificent Mile Lights Festival kicks off the official start of the season in the Windy City next Saturday, and showcases a family-friendly roster of mainstream guests, from All-Star Weekend to KT Tunstall.
If you can roadtrip it book a last-minute flight, aim to find Chicago vacation rentals close to downtown, as you’ll want to be within hoofing distance to Michigan Ave long before all the pretty white lights flick on.
The Shoreham (whose view you see above) hosts short-term and full-time renters in a chic high-rise just east of the Mag Mile. Floor-to-ceiling windows stream the skyline vistas in, and the furnishings are grown up and classic–like Chicago. Rent the one-bedroom property for seven days for just $100 a night.
Families, the building just happens to be next to three parks, including the famous Millennium Park with its picturesque Cloud Gate and Crown Fountain, two gems that continue to add to the city’s status as an American architectural wonder.
Tourists, you can continue about your business while the parade goes on. All the shops are still open during the parade, including American Girl, Macy’s, Nordstrom and others.
There won’t be any mistaking. In the air, there will be definite feeling of Christmas.
