I have to say, I totally love our new tradition with Jeff and Elizabeth. Last year we four headed to Denver for the Falcons/Broncos game, and we had so much fun together we decided to go to an away game together each year. This year we picked Chicago. What a fabulous city! The Smiths had never been, so it was fun to show them what we love about this place.
We flew up on Saturday morning, and David drove us in to the city to our hotel. We walked over to their place soon thereafter, and then we went on a boat tour that David had arranged for us. This architecture/history tour was so informative; I loved it. It was a beautiful day to be out on the river too.
We went back to David and Jan's afterward where we very much enjoyed some famous Chicago pizza and hanging out with them.
On Sunday morning, we hit up Stan's Donuts for a sugar fix before heading over to Soldier Field for the Falcons/Bears game.
We were ready!
We had fun walking all around the stadium. The Bears have such a rich history in football, so this was definitely a neat place to be.
At the closing of the national anthem, this stealth bomber flew overhead!
We're here for you Falcons...rise up!
Thankfully the Falcons pulled out a win, but it was a nailbiting finish.
After the game, we ubered back to the hotel, ate a bite there, and then got ready for the evening. We were looking forward to returning to The Second City which is a famous comedy club that has launched a ton of careers. Most of the sketches were pretty funny.
We still had a little energy after Second City, so we headed over to Chicago Blues to hear some authentic blues music. This band did not disappoint!
Sunday night was a late one for us, so we slept in a little on Monday, and then we all enjoyed the beautiful day outside. We started out with a late breakfast at Yolk which was very yummy. This is such a walkable city, so then we went all around. I didn't take many pictures because we've been to these places before, but I couldn't resist the Bean.
We decided since the wait wasn't long, we would go check out the views from the top of the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower). It was a clear day so the views were pretty outstanding! We even managed to get the courage to go out on the Ledge which is a glass box 103 floors up the tower! It didn't seem like a big deal until you step out on it and see straight down!
On the way back from Willis, we stopped at Eataly; how could we not?! We thoroughly enjoyed a meat and cheese plate and a glass of wine as an afternoon appetizer. A little bit after that, we met up with David, Jan, and Nick for a delicious Italian dinner. We had so much fun being with them! Finally, our time came to an end, and we headed back to the hotel. The next morning David drove us back to the airport. I always hate leaving this city, but I will look forward to returning!