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The center is fully staffed during the day with knowledgeable, friendly guides.

The adjacent restaurant offers good Italian sandwiches for a tad more than you'd pay at a fast-food chain.

Ask about free discount books that contain buy-one-get-one-free coupons.

Check on discount tickets for Broadway productions. We paid $25 USD/person to see Michael Nouri in South Pacific. There were plenty of seats available on a Sunday night.


A second solution: Chicago CityPass.

A flat fee entitles you to admission at six major attractions, without the wait in ticket lines.

It offers admission to all of the following: Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, The Field Museum, Hancock Observation Deck, The Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, Shedd Aquarium.

Adults pay $39 USD; Youth 3-11 $29.

To recoup the price of the pass, you need only visit about three of the attractions. Paying for them all separately would cost $72.50. It's a good buy if you'll be spending several days in the city.

Total Savings: $100 or more, depending upon how many of these deals you can take advantage of during your stay.

Additional Tips

Consult our Chicago section under Planning Your Trip. Links to accommodation, dining, entertainment and transportation await. Remember, these general tips can apply to many other large cities.

If you try delicious, deep-dish Chicago pizza, remember that one or two pieces can satisfy the heartiest of appetites.

Order one size smaller than you would at home for an average pie.

Flying to Chicago? Check current airfares. United frequently offers good deals from its hub at O'Hare, as does Southwest from Midway Airport.