Posted on 01/16/2008 2:32:09 PM PST by MinorityRepublican
CHICAGO — This may be the only city in the world where architecture ranks as a sport.
Bleachers are erected around construction sites so the locals can sit and watch cranes swing steel beams into place.
In fact, Chicagoans are so engaged in the state of their skyline, public opinion in 2001 sounded the death knell for initial renderings of the Chicago Trump Tower. Critics argued that the proposed structure would not look right among its iconic brethren.
Two renderings later, Chicago Trump Tower now edges its way upward. The handsome design will tickle the sky by 2009, along with the its heighty neighbors — the Sears Tower, the John Hancock Center and other mighty marvels.
The visitor to Chicago doesn't come away without appreciating the sophistication of this town. Architecture, restaurants, museums rank world-class, and then some.
Nor does the visitor fail to remark on the Midwestern friendliness. I got quick reminder of this as I entered Chicago Place shopping center. A woman on her way out said, "Hello, how are you today?" For one startled moment I thought I should know who she was.
Chicago friendliness is legendary, but so are the city's museums and Michigan Avenue shopping.
My first stop in Chicago is always the Art Institute of Chicago, a splendid neo-classical structure housing one of the world's most important impressionist collections. The spacious rooms and beautifully displayed works make you linger and absorb the art.
Lake Michigan is also a star player. I also always run, walk or ride a bike along the lake during fair-weather visits. But look out for winter in this town — winds off the lake can feel like knives slicing into your bones.
In summer, though, the lake is a shimmering jewel adorning the long preening neck of this skyscraping queen.
(Excerpt) Read more at seattletimes.nwsource.com ...
This thread is worthless without pictures....:)
Well it is a great skyline. Hardly any ugly buildings.
Downtown Chicago is butt ugly, crowded and smelly. State, county and city taxes are outrageous and increasing. Daley, Stroger and Jesse J. can have the place.
Trump Tower in Chicago.
Does look pretty. Lots of American flags on the bridge, too.
Ugly compared to what? Chicago is one of the cleanest big cities in the U.S.
OK, that’s a joke, right? That thing is butt-ugly! Where’s the classic architecture Chicago is know for- wait, I was just there last summer and can attest to the fact that some buildings on Michigan ARE ugly! but only the fudgies hang out there. But it is a joke, right???
It’s one of the most prestigous areas in the world and all sorts of people are there.
For our company’s anniversary, we received a book of Chicago architecture. On one page is a picture of a corner, sidewalk, building, etc. used to be and, on the opposing page, a current picture. With a bit of history thrown in, it’s an amazing book.
What are you talking about? Chicago’s taxes are lower than most, if not all, major cities in the country. Trust me — I miss Chicago’s taxes now that I’m in exile in NYC. No city wage tax was really sweet.
One of the most important cities in the world for modern architecture. And it has more cantilevered bridges than any other city.
Daley has long been asking the local restaraunts to stay open later. They have resisted claiming there isn’t enough business. I assume they’re right. If there was money to be made they would certainly stay open.
“After 9PM downtown Chicago feels like a theme park after closing.”
This Country Gals says that that’s more than late enough to be out and about. Don’t you City Folk have chores in the morning? ;)
I like Chicago. I’m about 3 hours away, and take the train from Racine, WI down there every few years. I’ve never felt safer in a Big City than in Chicago. It is a jewel.
Hope all of those bigger, taller, better towers don’t become targets. *SHIVER*
There’s more going on north of Chicago Ave and along Clark. Below that it’s as dead as Saddam Hussein. Hyde Park after dark is provincial (except for muggers).
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