Blow Her Away in the Windy City: Valentine Romance in Chicago

Discover romance against the sparkling city skyline. Chicago, the third largest city in the nation, is an exciting backdrop for a truly memorable Valentine's weekend get-away. A cultural explosion, this Illinois city lies on the massive shore of Lake Michigan, offering the finest in soul, jazz, blues and gospel music, mouth-watering deep-dish pizza, champion sporting events and the city's famous Chicago hot dog.

Transportation is easy in the nation's hub, whether you arrive by air, rail or auto. Quickly and cost-efficiently move from Point A to Point B via Chicago's extensive metro, known locally as The L. You can also make use of airport shuttles, city busses or Chicago's historic and broad-reaching highway system.

When you visit, set aside a day to explore non-stop art attractions and shopping in and around the business district. At Armitage, you'll find prestigious shops and million-dollar historical homes. Enjoy a more modern experience in the Wicker Park and Bucktown neighborhoods, where you can grab a bite to eat and order a drink at a local bar.

For a low, fixed price, Chicago's CityPass provides a steep discount on, and front-of-the-line entrance to, five popular tourist attractions including Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, Hancock Observatory, Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, and Shedd Aquarium. Plus, don't forget the unbeatable shopping opportunities that captivate you at Chicago's Watertower Place, Michigan Avenue strip and Chicago Place where you'll find Bloomingdales, Macy's Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Lacoste, Movado, Tiffany's and countless one-of-a-kind boutique shops.

For the true sports fan, this city is an unbeatable haven. In 2006, The Sporting News named Chicago, home of 16 professional sports teams, the best sports city in the nation. Visitors can plan to spend an action-packed day at Soldier Field, Wrigley Field, US Cellular Field or United Center cheering on champion teams like the Chicago Bulls, Cubs, Bears or White Sox or Blackhawks. Chicago is also home to incredible indoor soccer, hockey, lacrosse and rugby. Pick your event, book in advance and experience the excitement. The day is guaranteed to be a winner.

For dinner, Chicago is renowned for it's eclectic dining choices ranging from All-American to Korean, Italian and Mexican cuisine. Whether you prefer a posh, upscale establishment or the trendy Hard Rock Caf?you'll find the hardest part is choosing just one. Add icing to the cake by giving your sweet a devilish fresh-baked cinnamon roll covered draped in sugary goodness from Ann Sather or specialty pastries from some of the nation's most incredible bakeries.

The evening is rich with shows and entertainment. Spend an afternoon finding the ideal attire then leisurely enjoy a delicious dinner. Then sit back and enjoy an night filled with laughter and relaxation. Some options, requiring reservations, include The Blue Man Group, an artistic multimedia performance, or rotating shows at the Steppenwolf Theater, Goldman Theater, Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Symphony Center. If you're in the mood for something a bit more casual, visit B.L.U.E.S on Halsted or Rosa's Lounge on Armitage, two unbeatable local blues bars, The Hideout on Wabansia, an alternative folk and bluegrass bar, The Velvet Lounge, offering an incredible jazz atmosphere, or Green Mill on N. Broadway, former hangout for notorious gangster Al Capone, presenting an intense weekly poetry slam and jazz music.