Semi-OT: need Chicago recs

I've got tickets, I've got a hotel (Palmer Hilton) -- I'm ready for Chicago!
Sort of. I still lack a full list of things to do. I'll be visiting a

CarolCorb...

wn,

CarolCorb...

and

Nanm...

wn,

Nanm...

and

friend, but since she's going to be busy 3 of the 4 days DH & I are in town,
we'll need a list of things to entertain us. I searched the web for some past posts, and
so far I've got:

Michigan Ave in general
Millennium Park
Art Institute
Bravco (although it might be best for me to avoid this since I'm trying to
cut down on beauty purchases) :p
Moonstruck Chocolate Café (actually, per my friend)
Tru restaurant (already planned for one night)

Since DH is with me, shopping will probably be limited to one day, but any
sightseeing/eating activities will be supported/encouraged. We especially
enjoy eating at local hole-in-the-walls. So, Chicago a.fers, what else
should I add to my list?

irene_dsc...

Well, you definitely need to experience true Chicago pizza! There are
lots of great choices downtown - Gino's East, Pizzeria Uno or Due. I'm
in the suburbs, so forget exactly what else is downtown, but that's a
start.

I've done the architectural boat tour - great idea.

You can do a lot without a car, but it depends what else you want to
do. For instance, if you like architecture, Oak Park is doable by the
L. (Frank Lloyd Wright home & studio, and walking tours of many other
fllw homes). (Um, yes, I am an architect...)

And third the rec for Field's on State Street - I've been in mourning
all year for Fields! Have lunch at the Walnut Room and pick up some
Frango's.

If you get down to Hyde Park (Museum of Science and Industry, more fllw
(Robie House), University of Chicago, etc) I like a little Thai
restaurant on 57th street called Snail, esp. the Pad See Ewe (sp?)

Have fun!

Also, we plan on foregoing a car and taking the L everywhere. Is this a
reasonable idea?

TIA,
ami

CarolCorb...

Can't give you an answer on the transportation thing, but we were just
in Chicago last week as visitors.
Dined at the Signature Room, 95th Floor of the Hancock bldg.
Excellent view and good food. But pricey menu.
Also Gibson's Steakhouse type restaurant on Rush St. Very good,
crowded, noisey but a lot of fun.
My first visit to Marshall Fields, the original store on State St.,
but there is one also on Michigan Avenue. Buy some Frango chocolates.
I did, along with Anne Klein kitten heel shoes, and a Jones of New York
top in white on sale.
Thoroughly enjoyed the one hour boat/architectural tour. We had an
excellent guide and this was most interesting. Leaves from Navy Pier.
Planetarium, Field Museum, Industry and Science Museum...all most
interesting, wish we had more time at each. The Tut exhibit at the
Field Museum was sold out for that day.

Enjoy this wonderful city.
Carol