Chicago, IL

Today is a day of walking. And we cover some ground in Chicago - at least 5 miles.

We walked down towards Robbie's hotel to meet him for an extended breakfast, before the three of us wandered across Millennium Park to the lake front. From there we casually strolled up to Navy Pier. A beginning regatta had the lake full of boats and plenty of people enjoying the perfect weather (70 degrees with a light breeze). So much more pleasant than the furnace that is the Vegas summer.

We headed west along the north bank of the Chicago River, back to Michigan Ave where we walked up part of the Magnificent Mile til lunch was decided upon - The Weber Grill. I really like the warm feel of this place. And you can't go wrong when burgers and barbecue is cooked on a Weber. Afterwards a bit of shopping was done before we made our way back to the hotel via Cloud Gate sculpture in Millenium Park. This is such a simple piece of art, but it brings so much pleasure to people. Everyone enjoys it, and makes the most of the reflective photos.

Bob & I @ The Bean

Robbie had been given the tip of Gibson's for dinner by a friend. So we thought we'd see if we could walk in on a reservation. A quick cab ride north of the river and the area around Mariano Park was hopping. No chance of getting a table at Gibson's, but we walked into their next-door-sister restaurant, Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House, and were seated in the bar area of yet another busy restaurant. Score. Again it's steaks for Robbie and I and a nice piece of fish for A. The food here was magnificent (better than last night) and the noisy atmosphere made for a great all round meal.

Me, A & Robbie @ Hugo's

We lucked out again across the street at the Hunt Club, where we walked in and found a couple of guys leaving what was to become the only vacant table. A few drinks and shooting the shit - a great finish to a productive day. We finished up there when the club started getting going. A cab back to the hotel and a good night's sleep after an exhausting day.