Edition: Holiday Shopping
Martha Stewart's Chicago
Author: Martha Stewart
She's a woman who needs no introduction, but who could probably use some down time! Although she's been busy creating a new line for Macy's--and the masterpiece of a Centennial Great Tree that you'll see in the State Street store this year--Martha Stewart shares how she'd spend some "me" time in the Windy City.
8 a.m
Chicago is such a beautiful city and whenever I'm in town I like to wake up early to see as much as possible. I'd enjoy a light breakfast at my hotel - my favorite being the Peninsula (108 E. Superior St., 800-323-7500). Not only is the décor beautiful, the hotel also has a great staff and a wonderful spa. After eating, I'll head to the Chicago Botanic Garden (1000 Lake-Cook Rd., Glencoe, 847-835-5440) for a morning walk through its exquisite plant collections.
12 p.m.
I wouldn't mind stopping by the Field Museum (1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., 312-922-9410). Right now there's an exhibit of unique plant portraits. I also might do a little shopping, with a stop, of course, at Macy's on State Street (111 N. State St., 312-781-1000, M6;D2). This November, I had the honor of lighting the Great Tree in the historic Walnut Room, so I'll want to make sure all the Kugel ornaments are still hanging prettily. The Walnut Room is also a terrific spot to grab either some lunch or afternoon tea.
7 p.m.
There are so may great restaurants in Chicago. For dinner I like to dine at Tru (676 N. St. Clair St., 312-202-0001), Charlie Trotter's (816 W. Armitage Ave., 773-248-6228), or one of Ricky Bayless's restaurants, such as Topolobampo or Frontera Grill (445 N. Clark St., 312-661-1434). When I was last in Chicago for a speaking engagement, Mayor Daley sent me home with some delicious cabbage, mushroom and potato pierogies from a local Polish restaurant, so perhaps I'll find my way back there.
11 p.m.
A delicious, long dinner with friends is, for me, a great way to end the night. When I return to the hotel, though, I find that a Thai massage is always a great antidote to a long day of sightseeing.
Macy's On State Street
111 N. State St, Chicago, IL 60602
Taking up an entire Chicago shopping block on State Street, this landmark department store opened in 1852 and continues to offer top levels of service and merchandise.
Macy's
835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611
Part of Water Tower Place, this is a second downtown location of this famed department store.
