Kidding Around Chicago

Winner of Bravo's "Top Chef" program, Chicago's chef Stephanie Izard plans to open a new restaurant here in 2009, location to be decided (she formerly operated the critically regarded Scylla). "I'm glad I could bring it home to Chicago, especially since it was filmed here," says Izard, who kept the drama with her fellow contestants to a minimum. "I went on the show to cook food, not start trouble." One thing for sure, she knows how to spend a food-filled day in the city.

Skyscrapers and jam-packed streets leave little room in Chicago for sprawling golf courses. But, we've searched and found the best spots to take a swing. 

 Warm weather and plenty of summer festivals bring Chicago out-of-doors for good times the whole family can enjoy. See exotic animals from jaguars to Chilean flamingos at the Lincoln Park Zoo, or dyeyour hair green at Lollapalooza's Kidzapalooza. These must-see attractions are sure to fill any trip to the Chicago area with fun and entertainment for kids of all ages. 

Top concierges share their tips to seat you at the city's hardest tables to reserve. The hottest Chicago restaurants are taking your order. 

These new Chicago restaurants are ranked at the top when it comes to dining in the Windy City, be it classic or contemporary.

 No one knows the city better than Chicago's concierges, so we went straight to the sources to find out their favorites when it comes to nightlife. With so many choices from cozy piano bars and luxurious cocktail lounges to casual pubs and wine bars, their pics will keep you in the mix.

Sky-high fun all around the city of Chicago is yours for the taking; now go get it!

Chicago's going back to school in style! We explore the best shopping, from the department stores to the boutiques. Find hip threads and back-to-school accessories in every price range.