Vacations Blog

This is the first in a series on vacation’s in our president & vice presidential candidates’ hometowns.  Maybe by walking in their proverbial footsteps, you can finally decide who you will get your vote. We, of course are completely non-partisan.  The series will run each day this week.  Tomorrow will feature Senator McCain’s town of Phoenix, Thursday will feature Senator Biden’s stomping grounds in Delaware and we will complete the series by showcasing Governor Palin’s home turf in lovely Wasilla.

Yours in non-partisanship….

In spite of all the celebrity and rock star status, surprisingly few people outside Chicago know the real Barack Obama. My hope is to give you an inside look at his life in Chicago’s South Side. And of course, you can use this to plan a Obama-themed Chicago vacation.

Barack Obama’s Home

Let’s start with his house, which, because  McCain forgot how many homes he actually owned, became an issue. Obama’s house is located in the Kenwood neighborhood,  but it’s not exactly a mansion when compared to some other homes in the ‘hood. It is just big with four fireplaces. But the elitist label on Obama sticks when you consider the historic nature of the landmark district, where a lot of the houses are from the late 19^th century.  I love this neighborhood. Don’t you?  Here are some photos of his neighborhood:

Heck, you don’t have to take my word for it. Just take a CAF tour, whose meeting point used to be at the KAM Isaiah Israel synagogue near Obama’s residence. As of Sept 1, they changed the meeting point (probably security concerns), but you’ll still be able to see the house (and the synagogue – its magnificent from the inside) on the tour.

If you’re visiting his house, then you might also be interested in the Obama campaign headquarters at 233 N. Michigan Ave in the Loop. Or his former Church – the Trinity United Church of Christ.

Promontory Point, Burnham Park

Before he became Chicago’s favorite son, Obama and his family could often be found enjoying the breeze at Promontory Point in Burnham Park, referred to locally as ‘The Point’. It’s a beautiful place, good for picnics and romantic strolls and has a great view with summer fireworks and all. Also, as you can see in this video, the Obamas do enjoy a family bicycle ride along the shores of Lake Michigan.

If you’re fond of books and reading, head for 57^th Street Books in Hyde Park, where Obama used to buy his books. If you’re in need of a haircut, head straight for the Hyde Park Salon & Barber Shop at 5234 S. Blackstone Ave and ask for Zariff, who cuts Obama’s hair. For $21, in case you’re wondering… Looking for a workout? Go to the East Bank Club, which is Obama’s gym.

As for food, in his 2006 book ‘The Audacity of Hope’, Obama says one of his favorites was the turkey legs and dressing at MacArthur’s. Now it seems their favorite is the Sopa Azteca at Rick Bayless’ Mexican restaurant Topolobampo. Their other favorites (stated and/or spotted) include the Caribbean fare at Calypso Café, barbeque chicken pizza at Pizza Capri, Italian at Spiaggia, and RJ Grunts with the burgers and ribs.

Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama seems to have taken a liking to the cuisine at the upscale Sepia. That would probably be because her fashion designer Maria Pinto has a boutique nearby at 133 N. Jefferson St. Which would also be a good place to get an outfit which makes you look exactly like the prospective First Lady.

Design by Maria Pinto

(Personally, I don’t think this is a look for a first lady, but I sure would like to see a first lady in something other than an ugly suit, wouldn’t you?)

And if you want a special kiss at the exact same spot where Barack first kissed Michelle on their first date after an ice-cream, head for 1400 E. 53rd St., which was previously a Baskin Robbins.

And if you’re tired of politics as usual and want a change from an Obama overdose, then the main attractions on the South Shore other than the University of Chicago include the Hyde Park Art Center, Osaka Garden, golfing, beaches and other attractions at Jackson Park and South Shore Cultural Center. As far as shopping is concerned, you’re better off going down to the Magnificent Mile, since the presence of the University and the landmark district has largely prevented any commercial development.

And last, the only hotel I’d recommend for this Obamacation would be the Ramada Lake Shore where Obama first announced his entry into Chicago politics. Besides, there are no other major hotels in the vicinity. If you’re a young Obama supporter full of enthusiasm, and running on hope instead of cash, then the Hyde Park Arms (5316 S Harper Ave, Chicago, IL 60615), which is a transient hotel, might be a good choice. If you prefer Bed and Breakfasts, then the University Quarters B&B and Wooded Isle Suites are pretty well located close to the University of Chicago campus.

Bear in mind that this is not a Chicago vacation per se, but a snapshot of Obama’s world, and his life. There’s more to Chicago than just Obama, and you’ll find a pretty good list of all the things to do in Chicago here.

Barack Obama’s home courtesy of Obama Zone

Kenwood homes courtesy of  Chicago Architecture Foundation

Promontory Point photo by Kim Scarborough

Michelle Obama photo by Telegraph.Uk.co

Mario Pinto photo by Maria Pinto