Chicago | Lincoln | Jonathan Goldsmith | Days Inn

We Said…
Our essential spots in Chicago


Lodging

Days Inn Lincoln Park - North, inexpensive, (773) 525-7010, www.lpndaysinn.com. We don't often recommend specific locations of major chains, but this budget-friendly Days Inn branch is just too conveniently located to pass up. Smack in the middle of Lincoln Park, it's within walking distance of great restaurants, Wrigley Field, the zoo, and more. Plus, guests get free passes to the Bally's health club next door.


Dining

Spacca Napoli Pizzeria, moderate, (773) 878-2420, www.spaccanapolipizzeria.com. Jonathan Goldsmith, a former social worker and real estate developer, is the artist behind the apron at this increasingly popular pizzeria. His authentic Neapolitan pies are cooked in a 13,000-pound oven that he carted home from Naples.


Nightlife

Green Dolphin Street, (773) 395-0066, www.jazzitup.com. The upscale eats at this pleasant supper club on the banks of the Chicago River are noteworthy, but we go specifically for the jazz jams by red-hot artists like Lynn Jordan and Reuben Wilson.
Schaller's Pump, (773) 376-6332. This popular pub is not only a hangout for high-powered politicos with offices nearby - its adjacency to U.S. Cellular Field makes it a stomping ground for rabid White Sox fans. Talk about strange bedfellows.


Outdoors

Kayak Chicago, (630) 336-7245, www.kayak chicago.com. A lot of nature lovers get a feel for the city by jogging or walking around the 18-mile lakefront path, but another way to go is to rent a sea or surf kayak and paddle your way past the stunning sights and scenery.