Golden foliage at the Chicago Botanic Garden

It might have just officially turned to the fall season but Chicago is already ablaze with lovely red and orange leaves and cool temperatures.  Walks along the lakefront will get you a glimpse of autumn color but if you really want to experience the total glory of Chicago’s fall, grab a bike and ride through the North Branch Trail System to the Chicago Botanic Garden. Read More »

Every so often, Disney rolls out a classic film on DVD and Blu-Ray for a limited time.  This fall, “Beauty and the Beast” is up for its Diamond Edition, so to celebrate, the film will play theatrically through October 7 with a sing-a-long feature!  Before the show, American Idol winner Jordin Sparks coaches the audience on a how a sing-a-long works.  Daily showtimes are 10:45am, 2:00pm, 4:45pm and 7:30pm. Tickets are on sale now, and available at the El Capitan Theatre (6838 Hollywood Blvd.), online at www.elcapitantickets.com, or by calling 1-800-DISNEY6.  Our readers can enjoy the special rate of $9.00 per ticket by using the code UPTAKE upon checkout.

On select days, El Capitan guests may enjoy Breakfast with Belle at the Disney’s Soda Fountain & Studio Store, and then see the 10:45am movie! Seating is limited and reservations are required.

Green lights over Greenland

I’ve never seen the aurora borealis in person, but it’s on my list. Number 33 to be exact.

This post is a Wordless Wednesday entry, so don’t read any of the above.

Photo by ilovegreenland via Flickr.

Staten Island Ferry

Any list of “things to do in New York City” will include a mention of the Statue of Liberty.  And how could it not?  Lady Liberty is the very definition of iconic and it’s difficult to imagine leaving NYC without at least a glimpse.  But how much time and money should you devote to our gift from the French?

Most New York City locals will advise you to skip the official tours to Liberty Island while more sentimental tourists will insist that a trip to the statue’s base is a must.  Personally, I come down on the side of seeing the Statue of Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry – and here’s why.

Read More »