ROAD TRIP TO CHICAGO!

[The Big D]

In the next day or so I shall be embarking on a roadie over the mountains of western Pennsylvania, though Ohio and Indiana, and onward to, of all places, Chicago, Illinois.

The true purpose is to meet some friends who will be there for various reasons...and attend a Cubbie's game...DAY BASEBALL, of course. Believe we will have rooftop tickets in lieu of Wrigley tix. Sweet! A trip to Arlington Park may also be in the offing. In between we shall amuse ourselves with beer and steak.

Due to logistical difficulties, I shall be driving instead of flying. Plan a first day stop in South Bend, IN, with intentions to see some sights there after washing off the road dust. It should be about 470 miles...door-to-door...to South Bend. About 100 miles then to Chicagoland.

Staying on the Magnificent Mile with no plans to drive once there. Parking at the hotel is $55.00 bucks/day at the hotel...am exploring alternative locations as that's crazy. If anyone can recommend another parking venue please advise...

I shall make daily trip reports just in case anyone cares.

And if I should be murdered whilst in the concrete jungle some can truly say: I told him so! Actually I will be quite okay...

Be safe.

[ladder13]

Takin' the vette?

[The Big D]

Yessir!

(PS: Find the one you're looking for? If you can wait 'til next summer...know what I'm saying? )

Be safe.

[ladder13]

Originally Posted by The Big D

Yessir!

(PS: Find the one you're looking for? If you can wait 'til next summer...know what I'm saying? )

Be safe.

Have a great trip, and taking the vette, I'm sure you will. I was in Chicago one time, many years ago. We had a great time there.
I went to Kerbeck last weekend on the way back from Cape May. Think I'll wait until Carlisle at the end of August, then decide.
GM dropped the Jetstream Blue, and the Cyber Grey is on hold because of the Japan situation. Those were my 2 fav colors.
Might go used if I can find what I want.

[max]

I was at Wrigley a couple of weeks ago and had a fine time. Unless you have a fireproof stomach, stay away from the Italian sausage.

[Joe Kent]

As a member of the forum who lives behind the lines in occuppied Il. I would advise you to stear clear of Chicago. If you have trouble you are on your own and since they hate guns and gunners, why spend any of your hard earned money there.

[GatorFarmer]

South Bend? Eh. Where you really want to stop and take a gander is scenic Gary (Indiana). The I80 autoparts junkyard is truly something to behold. If you bop north a ways you can take a look at Milwaukee. Free beer on the Miller brewery tour and you can enjoy that which is a Culver's Jumbo Bacon Butter Burger Deluxe.

[walter o]

If you are on the In. toll road you might consider the CORD AUBURN museum just as you enter the state. It is in AUBURN just south of the toll road.

[cmort666]

1. Avoid the beaches.
2. Be VERY wary of large crowds.
3. Always be aware of your surroundings and avenues of escape.

Violence is getting worse, while the police and mayor lie about it going down.

Chicago is "flash mob" violence central in the USA.

If anything happens, you are COMPLETELY on your own. The police will not "protect" you, nor will you be allowed to protect yourself.

[DeadAye]

Originally Posted by GatorFarmer

South Bend? Eh. Where you really want to stop and take a gander is scenic Gary (Indiana). The I80 autoparts junkyard is truly something to behold. If you bop north a ways you can take a look at Milwaukee. Free beer on the Miller brewery tour and you can enjoy that which is a Culver's Jumbo Bacon Butter Burger Deluxe.

I was born & raised in Gary, IN. My mom was born & raised in Gary, IN. We don't go there anymore
The problem with stopping in Gary on your way to Chicago (or anywhere in IL) is that you really need to be armed in Gary (everyone else will be) but you can't be armed in Illinois....

I really love Chicago and the Blackhawks, Bears, Sox and Cubs (you can't love them both and live there too, btw) - BUT until they change their ridiculous gun laws their not getting ANY more of my $$$$.

P.S. While Wrigley Field is THE best venue for watching a baseball game (InManyHO) - The food is much better at Cellular Field (The Cell). I've never tried the roof across the street though.

[truckemup97]

Big D, IIRC, you are former LEO, so being armed shouldn't be a problem. Watch your six, but have fun!

[RichFromIllinois]

There are public parking garages just off Michigan Ave. that are half the price the hotel is charging. Take a look around and you will easily find a cheaper parking lot. The problems are here, just like everywhere else, but no worse. I've worked in Chicago for 30+ years and never had a problem. The loop, lake front, CTA, Wrigley, Art Institute, Navy Pier, the museum campus are all world class. If won't be cheap, but you will enjoy yourself!

[The Big D]

First, thanks to all for your advice/cautions/warnings.

Left the crib at 0840 this morning. Quick pit stop in Somerset, PA, then 432 miles, non-stop, to South Bend.

FTR, 5.5 hours on that last leg. Butt sore. Dry as a biscuit, too...but solved that problem very soon after arrival.

I's 76/80/90 were great roads...some construction, as always, but no "STOPS."

Speaking of which, no traffic enforcement visible until Indiana...lotsa Indiana HP soon after the state line.

Reminder: EZPASS is your friend.

That is all.

Be safe.

[2fingers]

Big D, Be careful up there, I live in central Il. and I hate Chicago with a passion. Do hope you have a good time and bring cool weather with you.

[yaktamer]

I changed trains once in Chicago -- ONCE.

[JcMack]

It is hot as Hades here. I saw this post too late to warn you. 100 degrees here on the 20th. Same for today. Not too enjoyable in ball parks. Speed Cops are everywhere in Indiana. If I never see Chicago again it will too soon.

[AKAOV1MAN]

Just a thought, the life expetence of a Corvette anywhere in Chicago can sometimes be measured in minutes..........

[VM]

Go CUBS!
Have a fun time at Wrigley and have a safe trip home.

[The Big D]

Before heading off to Chicagoland I wandered around South Bend for a bit. Whilst returning to the hotel I prepared to cross a side street (on foot) when I heard the ominous "screeching brakes" sound. Looked up and saw a small red car t-bone a SUV mere feet away. SUV did a 270 and the smaller vehicle came to rest at the curb where I had just stood.

Fortunately, all three persons involved are fine. Surprisingly, no airbags deployed.

Red car busted a "red" signal. Took a photo of the "red", gave my card to the "innocent" driver, and apprised the SBPD officer what I observed.

Off to Notre Dame in just a few minutes before on to the Second City.

Be safe.

[The Big D]

Easy drive from South Bend to Chicagoland 'cept the last eight miles took 30+ minutes due to gridlock on the Skyway. 'Twas a bit balmy, too.



Checked in at the very nice Westin on Michigan Avenue then adjourned to a local lounge to await my pals. From there to Ditka's for cold beer and big steaks. Both were yummy.

Folks here seem to be coping nicely with the heat. However, some knuckleheads seem to think it's okay to walk around shirtless. Yuck. (Yes, I'm speaking of guys who should keep their shirts "on.")

Didn't get mugged, assaulted, stabbed, or shot nor did I witness anyone else being so victimized.

Off to the Cubs' game in a bit...

Be safe.

[The Big D]

Okay, yet another swell day in the Windy City.

After record (?) heat yesterday, today dawned overcast and rather cool. That was soon followed by a monsoon. Peops who couldn't swim had to grab a chandelier. Not kidding; it poured.

But, with a Cubs game on the agenda, off I went to Wrigleyville.

Now, not knowing Wrigley Field policy re: CCW (yes, could've looked it up...didn't, intentionally) I went unarmed on the mean streets of Chicago. Didn't get murdered today, either. Imagine that.

Let the record reflect, however, whilst meandering back to the hotel just a bit ago I came upon several youths who MAY have been looking for some trouble. One young fellow seemed to veer toward me as I meandered down Michigan Avenue. I kept my pace and course whilst meeting his glance; he vectored away from me. No worries and not unlike any other day-to-day occurrence. But I digress...

Spent the pre- and post-game hours drinking lotsa beer at Sports Corner, Cubby Bear, and Casey Moran's. Met many fun people.

Chicago is, by and large, populated with good looking members of the human species. Preferring young ladies, personally, there are sooooo many lovely young things about that it was hard to keep my attention on the game. Seem to recall the Cubs won.

One more day...at least.

Be safe.

[VM]

TBD - glad you had a good game - CUBS WIN!

[Fishslayer]

"It's 120 miles to Chicago. We've got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark, and we're wearing sunglasses."

"Hit it!"

[JcMack]

I decided to go on a jaunt to Chi Town last evening. Ever aware of the cost of petrol, I took the Bradley instead of the M1A1. As soon as I hit the Chicago line I was met with small arms fire. Spotted flashes in an occupied building and opened up with the M242. Darn it, wrong building, the flashes I spotted was just the glow of multiple crack pipes being enjoyed by the happy, fun loving, indigenous people. Oh well, not many causalities. But dash it all I'm out of ammo. Donned my night vision gear and left the vehicle to relieve myself. Made a stupid new guy mistake and looked up at street light and the flashing blue strobe of the pole mounted police camera blinded me. By then it's almost rack time 20:00 for me anyway. Turned the Bradley towards home and along the way met an array of fellow Chicago goers returning home in their armored vehicles. Maybe tomorrow night I'll get further north on RT. 41.

[blujax01]

Originally Posted by Fishslayer

"It's 120 miles to Chicago. We've got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark, and we're wearing sunglasses."

"Hit it!"

"Are you the police?"

"No Ma'am - we're musicians."

Best.

Movie.

Ever.

[The Big D]

Wow! Record rain last night...6+ inches. Heard the thunder/saw the lightning...no idea how much it did rain.

Nice day in the morning. Wandered around town...lotsa folks out and about. No one seemed timid or afraid.

Lunch at the Weber Grill. (Mmore about that later...) Then to a local beerroom. Watched ManU v Chicago Fire match...boring...don't like soccer...but the lads do have mad skills.

Notably, four (4) CPD officers walked into the bar and hung out a bit for unknown reasons. I was at the bar directly in front of them. Was rocking a 642 in a Remora. Attire was a polo shirt (tucked) and shorts. NO worries. 'Twas invisible to all. (NO, THE VISIT WAS NOT RELATED WHATSOEVER TO ME.)

Off to several other joints and walked to all.

MANY, many folks out and about. All ages, all genders, all races...all seemed happy to be enjoying a lovely evening in a great city.

If anyone is for any reason afraid to visit Chicago you are missing something...

Be safe.

[JcMack]

Originally Posted by The Big D

Wow!
Notably, four (4) CPD officers walked into the bar and hung out a bit for unknown reasons. I was at the bar directly in front of them. Was rocking a 642 in a Remora. Attire was a polo shirt (tucked) and shorts. NO worries. 'Twas invisible to all. (NO, THE VISIT WAS NOT RELATED WHATSOEVER TO ME.)

Off to several other joints and walked to all.

MANY, many folks out and about. All ages, all genders, all races...all seemed happy to be enjoying a lovely evening in a great city.

If anyone is for any reason afraid to visit Chicago you are missing something...

Be safe.

First I offer an apology if anything I say in this post offends you. You are doing your best to refute the negative statements about Chicago and it's inherent dangers. If you're having a good time. Great!! Butt, don't try to say that all is well in Chi town. You are in one of the better parts of the city (called Lakeside) and just north (quarter mile) of the section of Lakeside appropriately labeled "Boystown". Boystown is where recent robberies and daylight mob beatings have taken place. The extra police protection you observed is there in response to those attacks. If they had noticed you carrying (any civilian would turn you in also) your trip would have been interrupted by a costly trip to jail. At the very least repeated trips to Chicago for court appearances. At the worst a Felony conviction, followed by probation most likely unless you have a prior record. My intention is not refute your claim to a good time. Just give me a idea of what the cost was for your trip, stay, and entertainment costs (including $4 beers). Did you go to any museums, or the planetarium, or aquarium like a family of 4 might do, and expose themselves to the south side in so doing? I think you stayed in the high rent district and caroused with the high rent people. Something most visitors might not do, and unknowingly put themselves at risk. Why did you have a gun?

[DeadAye]

And if Boyztown doesn't get your attention zoom down to The South Side where the real fun is.
As JcMack pointed out - You're with the MONEY there on Lakeside. A fun, albeit expensive, place to hang out. OTOH - IF they had caught you with a gun - Well --- They would not cut you any slack if you aren't carrying a permit.
But, then again, why should they? You are, in fact, a criminal (actually multiple felony counts) if you're armed in ChiTown without a permit.
You do have a permit - Don't you?

[ladder13]

The Big D is a retired cop, he carries under HR218.

Actually now called Public Law 108-277

[JcMack]

Originally Posted by ladder13

The Big D is a retired cop, he carries under HR218.

Actually now called Public Law 108-277

That being the case, I offer up my respect for him greatly for his service. I also offer up though not many can claim that cc exemption. To my knowledge no civilian permits from any state are yet recognized by Chicago. With his experience maybe he feels more comfortable than the average citizen in such circumstances. I avoid Chicago like the plague, having lived, and later worked, in and around there for 40 yrs.. Visitors to Chicago just contribute to the support of this city that cares nothing about them but securing the money they spend on their bloated infrastructure and political shenanigans.

[Joe Kent]

Perhaps the biggest reason that those of us who live in Il. stay out of Chicago are the left wing crooked politicians that the citizens elect and keep sending to our state capitol in Springfield. They are the very ones who block legal ccw and enforce some of the most draconian gun laws on the books. I will be darned if I spend any of my hard earned money with them. I realize that there are good people there, just not enough. Also, you are on your own with no means of legal defense and quite simply, they just do not like guns or gunners. They do like your money however. If you have the opportunity to see a political map of the state you will see only three or four blue counties out of over a hundred so you will see the problem that we downstate people face.

[rgearhead]

sounds like the OP is doing OK, I work Down Town (18 years now) It has a lot of cool things to check out, trick is to know where is safe and not safe and that also depends on the time and weather,lol..... glad you are doing OK OP.... sigh, i have to head to work at 2pm....

[DeadAye]

Originally Posted by ladder13

The Big D is a retired cop, he carries under HR218.

Actually now called Public Law 108-277

Cool - It's very hard to get a permit otherwise - That's a good law.

[Joe Kent]

DeadAye, in Il. there is no way for a regular citizen to get a ccw. I know in Chicago if you are an alderman or politically connected there may be a way but not for the "every day" law abiding citizen. While on one hand I am very glad that retired police are able to carry nation wide I do not think their lives are any more or any less valuable than yours and mine. I think we all should be working for ccw for every law abiding person and not subject to the whims of hack politicians.

[DeadAye]

Originally Posted by Joe Kent

DeadAye, in Il. there is no way for a regular citizen to get a ccw. I know in Chicago if you are an alderman or politically connected there may be a way but not for the "every day" law abiding citizen. While on one hand I am very glad that retired police are able to carry nation wide I do not think their lives are any more or any less valuable than yours and mine. I think we all should be working for ccw for every law abiding person and not subject to the whims of hack politicians.

Joe - I agree whole heatedly.
I grew up near Chicago (Lansing, IL & Gary) and love the teams, the food, The Lake, etc. etc. - - - BUT - I don't go there (or any where else in Illinois) on vacation anymore. I refuse to be able to protect my wife and myself - I won't violate their laws - And I won't be spending my time or money in IL. There are several other places to go.

[The Big D]

Oh, dear, I didn't think it was possible for folks to consider I was carrying illegally. As Mike noted, I carry pursuant to LEOSA.

Okay, back home late yesterday afternoon.

Traveled via Indianapolis to I-70 on return trip instead of Ohio TP. Was looking for something more scenic. It was...but encountered two major problems in Indiana.

The first 1:45 was in a torrential rainstorm of biblical proportions. It was accompanied by a lightning display the likes of which I've never seen. Wow! And, for you Indiana residents, is there something used to pave your roads that shreds tires? Yes, a dumb question, but I've never seen so many tire carcasses as on the roads in Indiana.

1210 miles on the odometer; 27.9 mpg.

Spent Sunday night in Zanesville, OH. Seems like a nice little town. Many churches in the downtown area. Must do some research to see why so many.

Mostly missed the bad weather on second leg of the return trip, but it was all around me.

Okay, back to Chicago... Though I've never been there without CCW, I would go regardless. Great food, great shopping, friendly people. (Yes, all Chicagoans whom I met were outgoing and cordial.)

I highly recommend the following eating/drinking establishments: Casey Moran's (Wrigleyville), and the Weber Grill, Dublin House, and Mother Hubbard's...all downtown. Oh, Ditka's, too, of course.

That said, it's good to be home.

Be safe.

[sigp220.45]

I'm glad you had a good time. I grew up in downstate Illinois like Joe Kent, in the shadow of big ol' Chicago. There used to be an advertising campaign jingle that went "Just outside Chicago, there's a place called Illinois........"

I like Chicago, but I carry so many guns when I go there I clank when I walk.

I love the Chicago accent, and the Chicago cops I've met have been great guys. That city does mess up an otherwise perfectly good state, though.

[CAJUNLAWYER]

Originally Posted by max

I was at Wrigley a couple of weeks ago and had a fine time. Unless you have a fireproof stomach, stay away from the Italian sausage.

I don't know if it was so much the sausage or the grilled onions and peppers and all the other stuff I had on it
Left Wrigley-had to make an emergency stop at the first place I could find-it was a tea/sushi resturant. Ran past the matre'd threw my wife at a table, ordered an ice tea, grapped a magazine and hit the bathroom.

[kraigwy]

Last Sept I took a road trip to Camp Perry, on my Harley. I wear my leather APD jacket on my bike. It still has a faded APD (Anchorage Police Department) patch.

Anyway I was driving through the southern outskirts of Chicago on I 80/90. I stopped to coffee break in one of those fancy rest areas.

A group of motorcycles stopped also. They were off duty Chicago cops on a ride. One guy notices my jacket, gives me a dirty look and asked if I'm a cop and why am I wearing the jacket?

I says no, I stoled the jacket when I retired. He scowed and asked me if I was carrying, I simply says "I don't know, am I" and smiled. He gave me a dirty look and walked off.

I don't know if all Chicago cops are like this guy, I certainly hope not. This is the first time I got that sort of reaction from cops in any part of the country.

On a side note, the friendlist cops I ran into are NYC cops, friendly and funnier then heck.