Leopold Restaurant

New Year’s Eve celebrations don’t have to be crowded, raucous affairs. If you prefer a more sophisticated experience, head to Chicago for an alternative New Year’s Eve party at Leopold restaurant.   You won’t have to worry about  jostling hoards or out of control drunks while enjoying an elegant Belgian meal and a striking art exhibit all in one space. Read More »

Ugly Holiday Sweater Pub Crawl

Sure fruitcake and egg nog are nice, but what if you crave a little more holiday fun?  Well, the Windy City has got you covered with a new holiday tradition that will keep you very jolly.  Pull out that hideous holiday sweater, the one that’s bedazzled, and get ready for the Limos Alive Ugly Sweater Holiday Pub Crawl. Read More »

Both are “coastal” cities (one on a river, one on the ocean), both are enjoying sweater weather at this time of year, and both are relaxed and lively with culture but without pretense. The two cities are on opposite sides of the country, a whopping 3,215 miles apart. If you have the chance, check out Portland Maine and Portland Oregon and compare your experiences!

The view from our table at McCormick and Schmicks, Portland Oregon.

Portland Oregon

Best place to eat: McCormick & Schmicks Harborside at the Marina. The shot above was taken directly to my right as we sat at our table on a lovely summer day. I had the steamed clams and the rare Ahi nicoise salad, and both were excellent.

Best place to sleep: The Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland is such a neat, atypical place to stay. It’s downright cozy, yet has a young and upbeat atmosphere. It’s certainly one of the more stylish hotels I’ve ever seen. Since you’re within walking distance of so much you probably won’t want to eat in, but their on-site restaurant/bar is great for a quick cocktail or full-menu room service.

Best thing to see: Washington Park sits high atop a hill above the city and offers spectacular views. Visit the International Rose Test Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Hoyt Arboretum all in one lovely day.

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Richard Move as Martha Graham

Chicago is most notable for the exceptional range of live music available seven nights a week but the Windy City also offers  a good selection of other performing arts. The  annual Chicago Dancing Festival is probably the least known and the most impressive of all the city’s summer festivals. From August 22-27,  the festival will display a collection of cutting edge performances by renowned dance professionals for free. Read More »