Orlando City makes their way north to the windy city for the first time this season to face the Chicago Fire, and while you’re there make sure to grab a hotdog or two.
The Venue
The Fire call Toyota Park their home. Located in Bridgeview, 12 miles south of downtown Chicago, the soccer-specific stadium has a capacity of about 20,000. The facility is known for their exceptional natural grass pitch that includes a $1.7 million turf management system complete with heating, drainage and aeration features.
The Fire has 11 (yes, you read that correctly) ELEVEN supporters groups. They mostly sit in sections 117/118 or as they call it “Section 8”. The 11 groups are: Arsonists, Banter Buddies, Blitzer Mob, Husaria, Fire Ultras 98, Partisans, Red Scare, Second City North, Sector Latino, The Western Front, Ultras Red-Side and Whiskey Brothers Aught-Five.
Sights to See
Field Museum of Natural History
I know the word ‘museum’ can be a turn off to some, but this is one of the largest museums of its kind in the world. The Field Museum is also home to Sue, the most complete and well-preserved Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil yet discovered.
John Hancock Center
This is a twofer. Take in the views of the windy city from the 95th floor of this 100-story skyscraper. Not only can you head to the 95th floor to take in a 360 degree view, but it’s also Chicago’s most jaw-dropping location for drinks.
Millennium Park
You and hundreds of other people can go get your picture taken in front of Crown Fountain and Cloud Gate aka “The Bean.” It’s a tourist staple, but if you want to be a smarty-pants and impress everyone around you here are a few fast facts about the park:
- The interior of the bean is largely wooden
- The idea for Millennium Park occurred during a doctor’s visit
- The Pritzker Pavilion’s speakers are faster than the speed of sound
- The towers for "Crown Fountain" are giant LCD screens (and no, you can't get your face on them)
Restaurants and Bars
Portillo’s
You know how people say unless you take a picture it didn’t happen? Well, if you go to Chicago and don’t eat a Chicago dog, the trip doesn’t count. Let me start by saying that on many occasions I’ve contemplated buying hotdogs online from Portillo’s (yes, you can have them shipped to your house) because they are that good. Portillo’s is a local establishment in the city, and if you want a proper Chicago dog this is your spot. Thank me later.
Three Dots and a Dash
Drinking? Always fun. Drinking in a Tiki Bar? More fun. Drinking in a secretive Tiki bar pouring some of the strongest drinks in the city? Bucket list worthy. Trust me on this. It’s one of my favorite spots in the city. It is a bit pricey, but you’re getting your monies worth. Have fun and drink responsibly.
Green Mill
It’s known as the best bar in Uptown. It’s one of the oldest bars in Chicago. It’s the most iconic bar in Illinois. And it was the favorite hang out of legendary gangster Al Capone. So what are you waiting for? An invite to the reputed secret mobster tunnels under the bar?
