travel show in chicago

Chicago Travel & Adventure Show Announces Full Programming Lineup

The Chicago Travel & Adventure Show, scheduled to return to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (5555 N. River Rd. Rosemont, IL) February 19 and 20, today announced its full program for 2022, including an interactive photo experience from the Florida Keys & Key West, celebrity speakers and more than 200 exhibitors , from first time attendees to returning favorites.

Providing the ultimate destination for guests to plan, personalize and book their next vacation, the Travel & Adventure Show provides visitors with the opportunity to meet and learn from top experts from around the globe, with thousands of destinations represented for guests to explore and a variety of free onsite activities. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to attend keynote presentations and interact one-on-one with the world’s top travel experts including Pauline Frommer, Peter Greenberg, Andrew McCarthy and more.

“We’ve always designed the Travel & Adventure Show to be an adventure in and of itself and this year, we’ll continue to give visitors the opportunity to sample cultures and destinations from around the world, right here in Chicagoland,” said John Golicz, Unicomm CEO. “Whether travelers are looking to book their next cruise, find their new favorite exotic destination or uncover a hidden gem near home, they’re sure to find exactly what they’re looking for.”

The 2022 Chicago Travel & Adventure Show will showcase some of the top destinations and travel options that are open for travel now. Each exhibitor will also provide travel experts who are on-hand to answer questions, give real time updates on travel protocols, and create custom itineraries based on attendees’ travel goals. The event’s sponsors include Dominican Republic Tourism, Taiwan Tourism, Pigeon Forge CVB, Dollywood, The Florida Keys and Key West and Visit Springfield, IL. Other destinations and travel suppliers of note include Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Company, Go Touch Down Travel & Tours, AAA Travel, Celebrity Cruises, Visit Anchorage, Greater Miami CVB, Israel Ministry of Tourism and hundreds more. 

The Chicago Travel & Adventure Show will take place Saturday, February 19 and Sunday, February 20. The show floor will open at 9:30 a.m. for media and travel professionals and 10 a.m. for the general public on Saturday and close at 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

The Chicago Travel & Adventure Show will host a variety of experiences at its three educational theaters across the two-day event. A selection of the various experiences is below. For the full schedule of panels, performances and demonstrations click here .

Travel Theater

Guests will learn the newest trends, hottest tips and most reliable tools from some of the world’s top travel experts. This year’s celebrity travel speakers include:

Pauline Frommer | Editorial Director, Frommer’s Guides

Pauline will share how to make the great return to travel, featuring new travel trends, budget tools and advice, hot destinations for the upcoming year and much more.  

Peter Greenberg | Emmy Award-Winning Investigative Reporter, Producer and CBS News Travel Editor

CBS News Travel Editor, Peter Greenberg, is set to give you the tools and tips you need to travel responsibly, safely and without breaking the bank in the new post-pandemic travel landscape. 

Andrew McCarthy | Award-Winning Travel Writer, Actor and Director

Award-Winning Travel Writer, Andrew McCarthy, will discuss how to find incredible cultural experiences, deal with adversity and learn life-changing lessons while traveling. 

To view the full schedule click here . *Meet and greets follow each session.

Destination Theater

From where to go and when to go, to what to do and how to get there, destination experts give visitors the in-depth information needed to travel like a local.

Aussie Experts 

Guests will learn the most up to date information on travel protocols, itinerary advice and how to make the most of your vacation in Australia.

Viking Cruises

River cruising has become a massive travel trend in 2022 and beyond. Attendees will learn how one of the top river cruise brands in the world is delivering a safe and spectacular experience. 

Mari Masuda | Senior Director of Trade and Promotions, Tahiti Tourisme

Getting to Tahiti is easier than one might think! Learn the how, when and where to travel in one of the most exotic destinations in the world. 

Dominican Republic 

One of the top destinations in the Caribbean is back in business! Learn which hotels are open, which activities to book and the best ways to get to the Dominican Republic on a budget during this 30 minute session. 

Tia Froehle | Tourism Sales Manager, Visit Anchorage

Alaska is known for being fantastic in every season. Attendees to this seminar will learn the top itinerary options for 2022 and beyond with Visit Anchorage.

To view the full schedule click here .

Savvy Traveler Theater

Showcasing travel tips, tricks and actionable advice, you’ll learn how to travel like a pro straight from the experts. Topics include packing tips, finding the perfect tour, budget travel options and more.

Angel Castellanos | World Travel Expert, www.AngelsTravelLounge.com

With a constantly changing travel landscape, world traveler Angel Castellanos will be on-hand to discuss packing tips, travel technology advice, and general best practices on how travel has changed over the past two years. 

Julian Douglas | Travel Writer, Photographer and Experience Curator, Listen, Journey, Savor

Learn all about the top private tours from around the world in this captivating 45-minute session from Julian Douglas. Guests will receive advice on how to secure local guides, how to plan itineraries and how to make sure they get the best bang for their buck. 

Nick Reyes | Senior Author, The Frequent Miler

Loyalty points are all the rage post-pandemic. Learn how to earn, use and maximize loyalty and reward points from one of the top points bloggers in the world. 

In addition to the plethora of on-stage experiences, the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show’s exhibitors offer a range of luxurious vacation giveaways available to visitors. Giveaway items include:

• 50% of lifetime membership to Wanderful, courtesy of Wanderful
• Five-night stay at Brickell Bay Beach Club, courtesy of Aruba Tourism Authority
• Kiwi/Aussie-themed gift basket, courtesy of Aussie Experts/Travel 100 group 
• Two nights and an activity in St. Croix, courtesy of Cane Bay Dive Shop
• Eight-day trip for two to South Africa with full board, courtesy of Go Touch Down Travel and Tours 

A full list of giveaways can be found here .

The 2022 Chicago Travel and Adventure show will adhere to local health and safety protocols and will require all attendees age 5 or older to wear a mask and provide proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. There will also be limited touchpoints and ample hand sanitizer stations placed prominently throughout the venue.

Attendees can purchase single-day and two-day tickets online now for the discounted rate of $11/$18 or on-site for $15/$22. Children 16 and under are free and on-site tickets can be purchased with cash only. Admission for children age 16 and under is free. For tickets and event information, visit www.TravelShows.com/Chicago .

About Unicomm, LLC and the Travel & Adventure Show Series

Unicomm, LLC is an independent business-to-business communications company specializing in originating and managing world-class trade shows and conferences. Unicomm's properties include the nation's largest and longest-running series of travel events, the Travel & Adventure Show in Atlanta, Boston, Washington, D.C., New York, Chicago, San Francisco/Bay Area, Los Angeles, Denver, and Dallas. Unicomm also produces industry-leading conferences including the annual American Traveler Trends Forum, as well as the  Virtual Travel & Adventure Show Series .

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In the mood for a vacation? Start planning your next big trip at the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show, which gathers travel experts and ambassadors from destinations across the globe. This year, Phil Rosenthal (from Netflix's Somebody Feed Phil ) and travel writer Rick Steves are among the keynote speakers. Guests can attend seminars on how to book cheap flights—an ever-salient issue, given airfare prices these days—get packing tips and snag sweet deals on trips at the convention.

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Watch CBS News

The Chicago Travel And Adventure Show Returns To The Donald E. Stevens Convention Center

February 20, 2022 / 7:05 AM CST / CBS Chicago

CHICAGO (CBS) – If you've been cooped up at home because of the pandemic and you don't know where to take your next vacation. The Chicago Travel and Adventure Show can help.

The annual event gives vacation-goers an opportunity to talk to representatives and experts from across the globe, meet travel personalities, get travel tips along with help to plan your next trip.

The show is in Rosemont at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Sunday.

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Plan an Epic Vacation at the 2024 Chicago Travel and Adventure Show

Get a free ticket to the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show just for being a Local Tourist.

Learn how to travel like a local tourist everywhere you go at the 2024 Chicago Travel and Adventure Show!

At the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show , explore thousands of vacation options to top destinations from around the globe.

Meet one-on-one with travel experts who will help you find, plan and book your next vacation. Uncover travel deals and show-only specials.

I’ve exhibited at the shows in Chicago, San Diego, Denver, and Los Angeles, and it’s one of my favorite events. Not only do I get to meet hundreds, if not thousands, of like-minded travelers, but I also find new destinations to visit.

Because of the Travel and Adventure Show, I’ve had incredible experiences at destinations I connected with at the show.

A few include taking a heritage train ride in Arizona , visiting Ridgeland Mississippi (with a side trip to a UNESCO World Heritage Site ), and eating all the cherries in Traverse City, Michigan.

And I only get about an hour to walk the floor! Lucky you, you can take all day, or all weekend.

In 2024, I’ll also be speaking at the Denver, Atlanta, and Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Shows.

Going to the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show

What is the chicago travel and adventure show.

This show is a bonanza for travelers. Exhibitors travel from literally all over the world to showcase their destinations, and it’s one of the popular things to do in Chicago in winter .

Not only will you get to discover new places to visit, you’ll also save money on your vacations. Exhibitors offer discounts, and there are tons of giveaways.

One of the best parts of the show is the seminars. They’ve got three stages and the schedule’s packed.

You’ll get to hear expert advice and learn to travel like an insider from dozens of educational seminars.

This year’s lineup is amazing: Rick Steves, Phil Rosenthal, and Pauline Frommer are taking the stage.

Other speakers, including Angel Castellanos, will teach you even more travel tips and provide inspiration for your adventures.

In 2024, I return to the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show, too. My topic? Planning your Perfect Road Trip from Chicago!

There’s nothing like jumping in the car for an adventure, and right now road trips are more popular than ever. I’m an inveterate road trip enthusiast who’s traveled thousands of miles to tell the stories of America’s treasures.

In 2024, I’m celebrating the 22nd year of TheLocalTourist.com.

I’m also the author of Planning Your Perfect Road Trip , Living Landmarks of Chicago (now available in audiobook), and the Two Lane Gems book series, and publisher of (and contributor to) Midwest Road Trip Adventures, 2nd Edition and Midwest State Park Adventures .

In this fun and energetic session, I’ll be sharing my best road trip planning tips for your perfect road trip adventure, including choosing your ideal road trip from Chicago , saving money during your travels, and doing it all safely.

Whether you’re looking to drive cross-country or just need a weekend getaway, you’ll learn how to plan an experience you’ll love.

Bonus : everyone who attends will get access to a free e-book with tips and tricks for planning an amazing road trip.

Visit  travelshows.com  for a full seminar lineup and additional event information (coming soon).

I’m also exhibiting, so stop by my booth and enter to win my books , including Planning Your Perfect Road Trip, Show Me Shipshewana , and the best-selling Living Landmarks of Chicago . I’ll be signing books, too.

AND we always have bribery – er, I mean – candy.

When is the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show?

The 2024 Chicago Travel and Adventure Show takes place on the following dates and times:

• January 13, 10am to 5pm
• January 14, 11am to 4pm

Where is the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show?

The Chicago Travel and Adventure Show is at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois.

How much is the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show?

Tickets in advance are $18 for one day and $26 if you want to attend both Saturday and Sunday.

However, check below and you might be able to attend the show for free!

Get discounted tickets to the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show.

Visit TravelShows.com and use code LOCALTOURIST24 to save 30% on your ticket price!

Get a free ticket to the Chicago Travel and Adventure Show

Want a free ticket to the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show? Sign up below and we’ll send you a code for a free ticket!

You’ll also get Wanderlust Weekly, featuring travel tips and inspiration to fuel your wanderlust.

Please note that this free ticket is a thank you for my subscribers. If you have previously unsubscribed, you may not get the discount code because the auto sequence won’t work.

There will be a limited number of free tickets and the code is first come-first served. If none are available, use LOCALTOURIST24 for a discount.

Make the first stop on your next vacation the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show – January 13 and 14, 2024, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

• documentary

Choose Chicago launches travel series 'The 77' to highlight Chicago's neighborhoods

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A new travel show wants people to experience the real Chicago by getting out of downtown and into the city's 77 neighborhoods.

The show was recently launched by Choose Chicago.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

The series is called "The 77: A City of Neighborhoods." The 30-minute episodes take a deep dive into the culture, history and food of five neighborhoods.

ABC7 was joined Friday by Rob Fojtik, vice president of neighborhood strategy at Choose Chicago, Andrea Reed, Executive Director at the Greater Roseland Chamber of Commerce, and Jennifer Pham, Brand Manager and Community Advocate for the Asia on Argyle corridor in Uptown.

They talked about Choose Chicago's neighborhood strategy and how the new travel series fits into their broader mission. They also talked about how neighborhood chambers of commerce partner with Choose Chicago to attract visitors.

The full interview can be viewed in the player above.

Screenings of the series will be held in multiple neighborhoods.

Bronzeville will have a screening at 6 p.m. April 16 at the Oakwood Center. Uptown will have a screening at 6 p.m. April 18 at Wilson Abbey. Pullman and Roseland will have a screening at 6 p.m. April 23 at the Pullman National Park.

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New Chicago travel show promotes neighborhood-led tourism

The program by choose chicago reimagines neighborhoods as prime travel destinations beyond downtown..

Victor and Nancy Garcia, owners of Papa’s Cache Sabroso in Humboldt Park, show off family pictures to Rob Fojtik, host of Choose Chicago’s new travel show, “The 77: City of Neighborhoods,” which explores the city’s hidden gems and histories.

Choose Chicago

Can Chicago tourism be reimagined as more than city skyscrapers and deep dish pizza? Choose Chicago thinks so.

Its new travel show, “The 77: City of Neighborhoods” hopes to uplift neighborhoods as prime travel destinations in Chicago beyond downtown. The series was unveiled earlier this month as part of broader efforts by the city’s tourism marketing agency to support community-led neighborhood tourism.

Hosted by Rob Fojtik, vice president of neighborhood strategy at Choose Chicago, the series journeys through five distinct communities: Humboldt Park, Little Village, Uptown, Bronzeville and Pullman/Roseland.

“I think our neighborhoods really are a proof point that our diversity, our history — even if it’s challenging — has created this amazing, beautifully vibrant city where we have so many different cultures calling Chicago home,” Fojtik said.

Longtime community residents might recognize their favorite bites on the screen, from the jibarito at Papa’s Cache Sabroso in Humboldt Park to a vegan messab at Demera in Uptown or a handmade old-fashioned doughnut in Roseland.

Choose Chicago’s new travel show, “The 77: City of Neighborhoods,” features the city’s culinary staples, including the jibarito, which was created in the Humboldt Park neighborhood.

Though food is a central component of each episode, aimed at increasing tourism and investment in the community, it is not the main objective of Choose’s Chicago’s marketing.

“If you get a million ads to come to the best restaurants in this neighborhood, but think that neighborhood has nothing going on, you’re not going to go there,” Fojtik said.

The goal is to shift the narrative of neighborhoods that have long been siloed through a “community-led” approach, Fojtik said.

Every episode includes a deep dive into that neighborhood’s history and culture as told by the people who live there.

“[Tourism] needs to be in the service of the folks who live there because otherwise you do see displacement [and] gentrification,” Fojtik said.

From community interviews with 26th Ward Ald. Jessie Fuentes, the Puerto Rican Cultural Center’s José E. López, urban historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas and many more, the series explores the city’s hidden culinary gems as well as hard truths, like disinvestment and gentrification.

Ambrocio Gonzalez, owner of La Catedral Cafe & Restaurant, discusses restaurant success in Little Village over coffee with Rob Fojtik, host of “The 77: City of Neighborhoods.”

Little Village resident Jennifer Aguilar , who participated in the series, agrees that storytelling is crucial to how a community is perceived. In her role as executive director of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce, Aguilar is tasked with promoting dozens of family-owned businesses in the 26th Street corridor, which has boasted the second-highest tax revenue in Chicago after the Magnificent Mile.

“It’s important to do a lot more storytelling to show people that, despite the violence, there’s also much bigger things [in the community],” Aguilar said.

With many of Little Village’s brick and mortar shops owned by Mexican and Latino community members, Aguilar hopes that increased tourism will stave off business closures and preserve the community’s cultural essence.

“Our target audience for tourists is other Mexicans in the Midwest and other Mexicans throughout the country … so they make the trip all the way over here to get their essentials and enjoy feeling like they’re in Mexico,” Aguilar said.

Aguilar’s clear that tourism should not come at the expense of displacing Little Village residents, which has been an ongoing issue in recent years.

“That’s why we were very intentional with talking about the possibility of gentrification and putting it in [the Little Village] episode,” Aguilar said, “so that whoever sees it and wants to come visit knows that it’s not an invitation for you to come live here.”

All 30-minute episodes of “The 77: City of Neighborhoods” are now available for viewing on YouTube and the Choose Chicago website, with upcoming community screenings in the next two weeks.

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Free Tickets to Chicago Travel & Adventure Show

The Chicago Travel & Adventure Show offers exciting chances to learn about destination news, flight hacks and more. We covered discounted tickets for the show last week. It was just announced that a limited amount of free tickets are now available through Travelzoo.

Grab your free tickets before they run out. The show is scheduled for this weekend, January 14-15, 2023, at the Stephens Center in Rosemont. Please note that the free tickets are for January 14 only.

Free Chicago Travel & Adventure Show Tickets

Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd, Rosemont, IL

January 14, 2023, 10-5 pm

Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

5555 North River Road Rosemont , IL 60018 847-692-2220

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Chicago travel and adventure show 2022, america’s favorite travel show returns to chicago.

At America’s Favorite Travel Show, You Can:

Explore endless vacation options

Plan your trip face-to-face with thousands of travel experts right on the show floor

Meet travel celebrities Rick Steves, Josh Gates, Pauline Frommer and Peter Greenberg

Attend dozens of educational seminars on the Savvy Traveler and Destination Theaters

Discover over 250+ Destinations from around the globe

Immerse yourself in faraway cultures with song and dance on the Global Beats stage

Enjoy fun for the whole family with camel rides, segway rides and an adrenaline rush obstacle course!

Save BIG with exclusive show-only specials and trip giveaways

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The 12 Best Things to Do in Chicago

Famously known as “the Second City” (meaning second in population to New York), I feel like Chicago is often overlooked by travelers. It sees a fraction of the visitors LA and NYC receive, which is a shame, as it’s one of my favorite cities in the world .

Chicago is chock-full of world-class institutions, Michelin-starred restaurants, awe-inducing architecture, and verdant parks. There is a lot to do here and the city has a really rich history. I think more people should visit.

Sure, the winters are brutal. But, come spring, Chicago blossoms into a dynamic urban landscape of street life, outdoor cafés, and sunny parks when locals take over the outdoors to enjoy the few months of nice weather. (I don’t think you can really beat Chicago in the summer.)

To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best things to do in Chicago:

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

2. relax in grant and millennium parks, 3. take in some art at the art institute of chicago, 4. admire amazing architecture on a river cruise, 5. stroll down the magnificent mile, 6. visit the shedd aquarium, 7. take in some natural history at the field museum, 8. get a stunning view at 360 chicago observation deck, 9. feast on deep-dish pizza, 10. stroll the chicago riverwalk, 11. eat your way through the mexican eateries in pilsen, 12. watch an improv show, 13. have fun at navy pier, 14. catch a game at wrigley field, 15. feast in chinatown, 16. experience st. patrick’s day, 17. explore oz park.

One of the first things I do when I arrive in a city is take a walking tour. They’re a great way to see the main sights, get the lay of the land, and connect with an expert local guide who can answer all my questions. Free Chicago Walking Tours hosts regular free tours that can introduce you to the city. You’ll get to see many of the coolest buildings in the city while also learning about the history of Chicago. The tour lasts a few hours. Be sure to tip the guide at the end!

For a more unique tour, try the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour . You’ll learn all about Chicago’s dark side and creepy past as you explore the Chicago Loop. The tour lasts two hours and really talks about one of the pivotal times in Chicago’s history. Even if you’re not a history buff like me, you’ll get a lot out of it.  

Located downtown, these gigantic parks provide a great place to hang out, have a picnic, or go for a run. People play chess here when the weather is nice and, during the summer, there are a lot of free concerts and events here. The larger Grant Park stretches along Chicago’s waterfront, while Millennium Park is the subsection where the famous “Chicago Bean” sculpture is located. This iconic work of public art is a must-see. And, starting at noon on the first and third Saturdays from April through November, the Chicago Cultural Center hosts walking tours focusing on the art of Millennium Park. It’s really interesting. I love strolling through the park or just chilling here with a good book on a nice day.  

To beat the crowds, skip a weekend visit as the place gets packed. Instead, go on a Monday or Thursday evening (they’re open late on Thursdays). You’ll have the place virtually to yourself.

111 S Michigan Ave, (312) 443-3600, artic.edu. Open Thursday-Monday 11am-5pm (8pm on Thursdays). Admission is $32 USD ( $40 USD for advance skip-the-line entry ). Daily tours (included in the price of your ticket) are offered at 1pm and 3pm.  

Chicago is an architecture lover’s dream. The very best way to take in its famed buildings is via a river cruise . This way, you can sit back and cruise down the canals while an expert guide provides context for what you’re looking at. The guides will give you a detailed history of the architecture. Some of the buildings you’ll see on the boat ride include the Tribune Tower, 333 West Wacker, Navy Pier, the Willis Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City, among others. All in all, there are about 50 structures to see on this fascinating tour, and I promise, it’s much more interesting than it sounds!  

Often nicknamed “Mag Mile,” this stretch along Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River to Oak Street is known for its upscale designer boutiques. In fact, rent here is the third highest in the US (after Fifth Avenue in New York City and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills). Even if you don’t want to blow your budget shopping, it’s still an experience to stroll along the avenue and take in the sights and the people, and enjoy the view of the Chicago River. There are several landmarks and attractions along the way too, including the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for expansive views over the city (more on this below).  

If you’re visiting the city with kids (or you’re a kid at heart), head to the massive Shedd Aquarium. It’s the third-largest aquarium in the Western hemisphere and home to over 32,000 animals. They have turtles, penguins, sea otters, snakes, sharks, and more. They really emphasize education here so you’ll learn a ton while you roam the different exhibitions. You can even pay extra to do things like feed penguins and sharks, and they also host all kinds of fun evening events (such as live music after hours). I absolutely love coming here. Just make sure to book your ticket in advance as they do get busy and sell out!

To beat the crowds, skip the weekend and visit during the week instead. Also, try and visit right when it opens (especially Wednesday-Friday). It’s usually quieter then.

1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org. Open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday (9pm on Tuesdays), 9am-6pm Saturday, and 11am-6pm on Sundays. Tickets start at $37 USD. Admission can also be included with the Chicago CityPASS .  

One of the biggest museums in the world, the Field houses extensive collections spanning anthropology, geology, botany, and zoology. Some important collections include the displays of taxidermied animals, a wing dedicated to astronomy, and fascinating artifacts from ancient Egypt. I recommend planning to spend at least 3-4 hours to really take it all in.

1400 S. Dusable Lake Shore Drive, (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org. Open daily 9am-5pm (last admission is at 4pm). Basic admission is $30 USD . Special exhibitions are an additional charge (which varies), though you can get an all-access pass for $43 USD.  

Chicago is a skyscraper city, including a few rather iconic towers. Located atop what was formerly known as the John Hancock Building and now (uninspiringly) called 875 N. Michigan, the 360-degree viewing deck a thousand feet up and allows visitors to get the best view of the Windy City and Lake Michigan. You can even grab a pint at the Cloud Bar, which serves beer from Moody Tongue, a local brewery.

If you’re a thrill seeker and want more than just the view, sign up for Tilt. This part of the observation deck is where you can stand in front of a glass window, which then tilts forward, until it appears you’re looking directly down at the street, 94 floors below.

Just make sure to check the weather before you go so you will actually have a view to enjoy. Additionally, if you want to beat the crowds, come early (before 10am).

875 N Michigan Ave, (888) 875-8439, 360chicago.com. Open daily 9am-11pm (the last entry is at 10pm). Admission starts at $30 USD ( get your tickets in advance for skip-the-line access ).

If you really want to indulge, hop on a Chicago Pizza Tour , on which you’ll get to sample all the varieties on offer in town. Tours start at $49 USD.  

Stretching from Lake Michigan to Lake Street, the 1.25-mile Riverwalk along the Chicago River makes for a fun stroll. Along the way, you’ll not only get fantastic views of the river and city, but you’ll encounter a legion of waterfront restaurants, cafés, and bars. There’s a ton of public art and green space too (great for picnicking and people-watching). It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment in this Midwestern metropolis, but if you prefer a more active experience, there are also lots of aquatic activities here too (such as kayaking or taking a river cruise).  

The neighborhood of Pilsen was founded in 1878 by Czech immigrants, who named the area after the fourth-largest city in the Czech Republic, where pilsner beer was born. The Czechs may be gone now, but today Pilsen is Chicago’s main Latino neighborhood, particularly Mexicans from the Michoacán region. Today you can wander the area, eating some of the best tacos while taking in the vibrant street art.  

The Second City is one of the most popular and well-known improv troupes in the country. It’s where greats like Bill Murray, John Candy, Catherine O’Hara, Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler all cut their teeth. They put on regular performances and also host all kinds of special events. They even host workshops and classes if you want to give improv a try yourself. Just be sure to get your tickets in advance as the most popular shows sell out fast.

230 W North Ave, (312) 337-3992, secondcity.com. Performances are held daily so check the website for what’s on. Tickets start at $35 USD.  

600 E Grand Ave, (312) 595-7437, navypier.org. Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-8pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm (individual attractions and restaurants may have separate hours). Admission to the pier is free, though attractions charge their own fees ( the Centennial wheel is $21.30 USD , for example).  

Home of the Cubs, Wrigley Field, on Chicago’s North Side, is smack in the middle of town. It also happens to be one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the United States (it opened in 1914). If you’re in Chicago during the baseball seasons (April to October) and the Cubs are in town, do yourself a favor and go to a game. It’s one of the most intimate and atmospheric baseball stadiums in the country. If the Cubs are not in town, you can also take a 90-minute behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium.

1060 W Addison St, (773) 404-2827, mlb.com/cubs/ballpark. Tour dates and times vary depending on the season (check the website for availability). Tour admission is $30 USD. Tickets to see a game vary greatly but start at just $10 USD (for better seats at a popular game, expect to spend closer to $80-125 USD).  

Bring your appetite to Chinatown, where you can feast on cheap dim dum, do karaoke, or relax at one of the many tea houses. One of the oldest Chinatown’s in the country, over a third of Chicago’s Chinese population lives in Chinatown, making it one of the largest concentrations of Chinese-Americans in the USA. Don’t miss Ping Tom Memorial Park, and keep an eye out for colorful murals around the neighborhood. Some of my favorite places here are Hing Kee, MCCB Chicago, and Phoenix. &nbsp

The tradition began in 1843, when Chicago’s first Irish parade was held, but it wasn’t until 1962 that the dyeing of the river started, at the suggestion of a plumber’s union, which is still responsible for the green river each year, though it won’t divulge its secrets about what’s used (it’s environmentally friendly, though). Take a river cruise on the emerald waters or snap a pic from the sidelines and enjoy. This is one of the biggest days of the year here!  

This whimsical little park, located in the Lincoln Park area, was created to honor L. Frank Baum, the author of The Wizard of Oz . He lived in the area at the end of the 19th century, and when the city wanted to renovate the park they decided to do so in a way that honored Baum’s popular book.

There’s a playground named after Dorothy, a green space called the “Emerald Gardens,” and numerous life-size statues of popular characters from the musical adaptation, including the Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and the Scarecrow.

Open daily 6am-11pm. Admission to the park is free.

Chicago doesn’t get the attention it deserves. I think it’s fun and perfect for a weekend getaway. And you really can’t beat the summers here either. With lots of interesting museums, plenty of green space, and some great eats, Chicago should be on every traveler’s list!

Book Your Trip to Chicago: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Chicago? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Chicago for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Wildberrys vs Original Pancake House - Chicago Forum

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Wildberrys vs Original Pancake House

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Which would you recomend?

6 replies to this topic

Call me crazy, but I still prefer Tempo Cafe or Lou Mitchells.

Lou Mitchell’s for the win!

Meli Cafe is good too. Three locations in the city.

I also recommend Wishbone.

Both are chains so there's no reason to travel. Just pick whichever is closest to your hotel.

Use the Wildberry website to get in line instead of waiting at the restaurant.

I second poster no 4’s recommendation of Meli. See https://www.melicafe.com/

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Chicago Hotels and Places to Stay

• _________Planning and Traveling____________
• Using O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
• Using Midway Airport (MDW)
• FIRST- TIME Visitors: Start Here
• Where to Stay? Choosing a HOTEL....
• Dates to avoid 2024, High Season
• Using Mass Transit in Chicago
• Getting Around with Smartphone Apps
• LONG LAYOVERS at O'Hare, how to kill time
• __________Things to Do in Chicago___________
• The Best of Chicago
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• Taking KIDS and TEENS to Chicago
• Solo Traveler - What to do?
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• SUMMER Outdoors - 606 Elevated Trail, Riverwalk, Maggie Daley Park, Northerly Island
• Chicago BEARS Info and Getting to SOLDIER FIELD for a Game or Concert
• Buying CUBS Tickets and Visiting Wrigley Field
• WHITE SOX Info and Visiting Guaranteed Rate Field
• _______Chicago's Best Food and Drink________
• Best Restaurants
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• Dining and Drinking Outdoors or with a View
• Chicago Pizza - The Great Debate
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• ________Trip Reports and Miscellaneous_______
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• Trip Reports
• Trip Reports - continued

New Study Reveals The 7 Most Overcrowded Tourist Destinations For 2024

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More people than ever are choosing to travel this year, so running into other tourists is unavoidable.  

But if you don't want to join the crowds, then where should you give a wide swerve?  

A new study has looked at the number of tourists per square kilometer and population in each city in the world.  

They found that 8 of the world's most overcrowded tourist destinations for 2024 are in Europe. And the other 2 are in North America.  

Here are the top 7:  

7. Budapest  

At the back of the pack is beautiful Budapest, which may be a fascinating city to explore in the low season but can be unbearably crowded in the height of the summer.  

Visit Budapest for the art galleries and museums, the spectacular spas, and the quirky architecture. This is a must-visit city for history enthusiasts.  

What makes Budapest unique is that the city can be enjoyed in any weather. So if you want to beat the crowds, then visit during the low season.  

6. Amsterdam  

Amsterdam is full : that's the message from local authorities in the city who are introducing new schemes to limit overtourism and reduce crowd levels in the city.  

And new figures show that they're right: Amsterdam is the 6th most overcrowded tourist destination in the world.  

People visit Amsterdam for the vibrant culture, rich history, and the beautiful canals. But it's worth noting that Amsterdam's narrow streets can feel overwhelmingly crowded very quickly.  

 Whether you're exploring the city by boat or by bike, relaxing in a museum or a cafe, there's so much for tourists to see and do here. Provided you don't mind crowds.  

5. Stockholm  

Stockholm is the largest city in Scandinavia but despite this, it still manages to be the most crowded.  

A city on the water, people visit Stockholm for the incredible architecture, thriving cultural scene, and laid back city life.  

Stockholm is a popular cruise destination, so if you want to see this stunning city without the crowds, then I recommend booking your trip so that it doesn't coincide with a cruise ship arrival.  

Otherwise you'll find navigating this exciting city really is unbearable.  

4. New York  

Only 2 of the most overcrowded cities in the world are outside of Europe and both of these are in North America.  

New York is one of the most densely populated cities in the U.S., but despite this, locals are still outnumbered by tourists in the city.  

Visit New York for the iconic attractions such as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. For the incredible theater, the food, and the architecture.  

But don't visit if you're looking for somewhere to relax and unwind in solitude!  

3. Chicago  

As well as being the 3 rd most crowded city in the world right now, Chicago is also the most crowded tourist destination in the U.S.  

Chicago is considered a cultural powerhouse and is a hugely popular destination for U.S. travelers which explains why crowd levels here are so high year-round.  

Iconic attractions, innovative dining experiences, and incredible theater are just some of the reasons so many people love to visit Chicago. But the crowds these attractions bring with them can sometimes be overwhelming.  

2. Bern  

Bern might not be somewhere you naturally think of as being an overcrowded city or a magnet for tourists.  

But the Swiss capital city is very small compared to other European capitals, and this means that it can feel crowded during the height of the tourism season.  

Bern boasts an incredible 3279% ratio of visitors to population residents which is the highest on the list.  

Despite this, travelers visit Bern for its relaxed vibes and abundance of charm, as well as its covered arcades and Medieval streets.  

1. Paris  

Officially the most overcrowded city in the world for 2024 is Paris.  

There are a frankly incredible 351,429 visitors per square kilometer in the city. What's more, the visitor-to-population ratio in the city is 1708%.  

If you don't like crowds, then Paris isn't the right destination for you.

That is especially true this summer when visitor numbers to the city are skyrocketing as Paris hosts the 2024 Olympic games.  

If you're looking for a quiet and tranquil vacation, then Paris is not the place to be!  

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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The post New Study Reveals The 7 Most Overcrowded Tourist Destinations For 2024  appeared first on Travel Off Path .

‘Conan O’Brien Must Go’ to New Places as the Travel Series Returns for Season 2

Conan O'Brien is returning for more adventures.

The Big Picture

• Conan O'Brien Must Go season 2 announced, following successful 1st season on Max with high ratings and positive reviews.
• HBO's streaming service, Max, boasts award-winning projects like The Sympathizer and upcoming House of the Dragon Season 2.
• Stay tuned for exciting updates on Conan O'Brien Must Go Season 2, now streaming on Max for fans to enjoy.

In a panel filled with exciting news about The Last of Us , Harry Potter , and House of the Dragon , one of HBO's most well-received shows of the year got an exciting new update. The studio announced that Conan O'Brien Must Go , the series which follows talk show host Conan O'Brien on a journey around the world is officially returning for Season 2. Both critics and fans appreciated the first season of the series, with the former delivering a strong 94% score and the latter offering a slightly weaker but still impressive 79% rating on the aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes .

The series first premiered on Max on April 18 with four episodes each detailing O'Brien visiting friends he made through his 2018 podcast, Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend . O'Brien is best known for his previous talk shows, Late Night with Conan O'Brien and Conan , each of which he earned several Emmy nominations for which he's accrued four wins over the years. He's also made guest appearances over the years as himself in projects such as Curb Your Enthusiasm , which recently aired its final episode on April 7, as well as Murderville , a whodunnit mystery series on Netflix starring Will Arnett and Haneefah Wood .

What Else Is Streaming on Max?

HBO has no shortage of award-winning, critically acclaimed projects streaming on Max, but the platform is still outside the top five in the largest streaming services in 2024, behind Netflix, Prime Video , and Disney+ by a considerable margin. Nonetheless, Max still has some of the most popular projects in the game, currently airing The Sympathizer , the spy miniseries starring recent Oscar-winner Robert Downey Jr. and Hoa Xuande , which is set to debut its final two episodes on May 19 and 26.

It's also set to be a big summer for Warner Bros. and HBO with their streaming service preparing to air the highly-anticipated House of the Dragon Season 2 . The first season brought home an Emmy Award win for Outstanding Fantasy Costumes, and was nominated in eight other categories total. The highest-grossing movie of the year, Dune: Part Two , is set to stream on the platform in less than one week on May 21, and 2023 hits Barbie and No Hard Feelings also land in the top 10.

The first season of Conan O'Brien Must Go is now streaming on Max. Stay tuned to Collider for future updates on Season 2.

Conan O'Brien Must Go (2024)

Follows Conan O'Brien as he visits new friends he made through his podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend (2018), and engages in in-depth discussions with viewers from all around the nation and the globe.

WATCH ON MAX

News | Daywatch: Chicago officer claims self defense…

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News | Daywatch: Chicago officer claims self defense in death of girlfriend

Days before she was killed, Andris Wofford found a gun nestled among clothes in her laundry basket, prosecutors said, and then made a prophetic comment to a friend.

“If anything happens to me,” prosecutors said she told her friend shortly before her death in December 2021, “Pierre will have done it.”

She was referring to Pierre Tyler, the father of her 9-month-old daughter and then a Chicago police officer, according to prosecutors, who said her prediction would soon come to pass.

After an argument over another woman, Tyler fired a shot that killed the 29-year-old mother in her apartment in the 2100 block of North Nashville Avenue in the Northwest Side’s Galewood neighborhood, according to police and prosecutors.

But Tyler, 32, standing trial on murder charges, is arguing that the shooting was in self-defense. He plans to take the stand later this week, his attorney said, a relatively rare choice because of the risk of going up against prosecutors for questions under oath.

The jurors, who were sworn in yesterday, will decide which version they believe. The trial is expected to last until Friday.

Read the full story from the Tribune’s Madeline Buckley .

Here are the top stories you need to know to start your day.

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This year’s Israel Independence Day ‘tinged with sorrow,’ say Chicago Jews

Members of the Jewish United Fund in Chicago raised a flag in Daley Plaza yesterday to honor the date of the formal establishment of the state of Israel. The holiday, called Yom Ha’atzmaut in Hebrew, held more significance amid the deadliest round of fighting in the history of the conflict between Jews and Palestinians to date.

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As EV popularity grows, Illinois corn farmers turn to aviation as a possible market for ethanol

Corn could be the key to solving another clean energy dilemma. Planes are difficult to electrify and some fuel companies believe the answer to cleaning up aviation lies in America’s heartland.

Loop restaurants are clawing their way back to health

More than 300 downtown restaurants, bars and bistros shuttered during the first three years of the pandemic, including iconic spots such as Ronny’s Steakhouse and chain locations such as Starbucks and Panera Bread, according to Datassential, an analytics firm for the food and beverage industries.

But surviving Loop restaurant owners now say they can see light at the end of the tunnel. Even though many downtown office workers are still absent Mondays and Fridays, restaurateurs have found ways to compensate.

Dolton trustees approve temporary mayor position, act on garbage pickup payments

Dolton trustees have named a fill-in replacement for Mayor Tiffany Henyard as a “precautionary measure” in the event she is absent from a meeting or otherwise unable to fill her duties, according to Trustee Jason House.

The appointment of House to serve as mayor pro tem came at a special Village Board meeting held Monday at a village park district building.

Henyard did not attend the meeting, which came after the mayor earlier this month  vetoed action  taken by four trustees to hire former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot to investigate Henyard and village spending.

King Charles III unveils his first official portrait since his coronation

King Charles III has unveiled the first portrait of the monarch completed since he assumed the throne, a vivid image that depicts him in the bright red uniform of the Welsh Guards against a background of similar hues.

Full of firsts: 5 things to watch for as the Chicago Sky kick off the regular season

The next step is here for the Chicago Sky, who kick off the 2024 WNBA season Wednesday with a road game against the Dallas Wings. This season represents a fresh start for the Sky, who welcomed in a new coach, new general manager and new rookies Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso this offseason.

Will the Blackhawks keep their 2nd 1st-round pick? Here are 3 players they could target at No. 20.

While the Chicago Blackhawks have been stockpiling draft picks like toilet paper in a pandemic, general manager Kyle Davidson doesn’t sound averse to dealing this year’s No. 20 selection that he acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Inspired by Studs Terkel, a Chicago artist celebrates Uptown heroes on bus shelters

Studs Terkel, who lived much of his life in Uptown, famously did not drive. He rode the bus, south from his home to the WFMT radio studios downtown where for more than 40 years he talked and listened and otherwise explored people because, as he said, “More and more we are into communications, and less and less into communication.”

The Tribune’s Rick Kogan knew Studs pretty well and so can confidently say that he would be both intrigued and charmed by a woman Kogan recently met, and not only because she is a wildly creative person but one who thinks of Terkel as a “kindred spirit.”

Column: Why the stink of that bad, bad iPad ad won’t go away

Apple’s “Crush” commercial, unveiled last week and no longer scheduled to air on TV in America because people just truly, madly, deeply hated it, constitutes something larger than a miss, or a flub, writes Tribune critic Michael Phillips .

TV for summer 2024: ‘The Bear’ and ‘Couples Therapy,’ but few chances taken

Tribune critic Nina Metz takes a look at the summer TV lineup, offering a bright side among some unimpressive offerings and the return of one of her favorite unscripted shows.

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The latest on the massive solar storm

By Angela Fritz, Elise Hammond and Chris Lau, CNN

Incredible lighthouse picture from Maine

From CNN's Chris Lau

Among a flurry of surreal images capturing the dazzling auroras is one taken by Benjamin Williamson of a lighthouse in Portland, Maine.

"It's one of the most incredible things I've ever seen, the awe and wonder," Williamson told CNN.

He said he used a long-exposure technique to snap the shot, but did not edit it.

Watch the full interview with Williamson here .

Things could be about to ramp up

If you still haven't seen the aurora, hold on for another 30 minutes to an hour, according to CNN meteorologist Chad Myers.

The next wave of coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, which cause the aurora, is about to arrive, he said.

"Just wait a minute because things are going to start to ramp up here," he said, adding that the increase could arrive "anytime now." "When it comes, get outside, get ready, put your coat on."

For those who are too busy to witness the phenomenon tonight, Myers said the aurora is expected to last three nights.

Why does the aurora last for a weekend?

By CNN's Chris Lau

Generally, it takes just eight minutes for light to travel 93 million miles to the Earth from the sun, but astrophysicist Janna Levin said the energized particles causing the current wave of aurora travel a lot slower, causing the phenomenon to last for the weekend.

"Some of these mass ejections are trillions of kilograms," she said. "They're slower. So they're taking longer, but still hours, maybe tens of hours."

Here's how the solar storm looks in the South and on the East Coast

The aurora was visible across the East Coast and in the South Friday.

Here's how it looked in Chester, South Carolina.

Down in Florida, waves of color swam through the sky.

Up north in New Jersey, a purple-ish haze could be seen in the sky.

Will solar storms get more intense and risky in the future?

The answer is probably not in the short term, according to astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi.

He said scientists study what is constantly happening on the surface of the sun and have found a pattern.

“Geological data shows us that in the past the sun was way more active than it is today. It has cycles where it goes very quiet ... and you have events that show that the solar activity was much, much greater,” he told CNN. “So there's no evidence that we're going to see those big maxima this cycle." 

But the astrophysicist also spoke of a caveat - the limitations of modern science.

“Even though it's predictable in the short term, we still don't quite understand what creates the magnetic fields in the sun,” he said, adding: “That's why NASA has so many satellites looking at the sun.”

In Pictures: Auroras light the sky during rare solar storm

From CNN Digital's Photo Team

A series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun are creating dazzling auroras across the globe .

The rare solar storm may also disrupt communications. The last time a solar storm of this magnitude reached Earth was in October 2003, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center.

See more photos of the aurora from tonight.

Behind dazzling aurora could lie “real danger,” Bill Nye the Science Guy says

The massive solar storm could present “a real danger,” especially with the modern world relying so much on electricity, according to Bill Nye the Science Guy , a science educator and engineer.

Scientists are warning an increase in solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun have the potential to disrupt communication on Earth into the weekend. Solar flares can affect communications and GPS almost immediately because they disrupt Earth’s ionosphere, or part of the upper atmosphere. Energetic particles released by the sun can also disrupt electronics on spacecraft and affect astronauts without proper protection within 20 minutes to several hours.

In comparison to tonight's event, Nye drew comparisons with another incident in 1859, known as the Carrington Event, when telegraph communications were severely affected.

“The other thing, everybody, that is a real danger to our technological society, different from 1859, is how much we depend on electricity and our electronics and so on,” Nye said. "None of us really in the developed world could go very long without electricity."

He noted that there are systems in place to minimize the impact, but “stuff might go wrong,” stressing that not all transformers are equipped to withstand such a solar event.

“It depends on the strength of the event and it depends on how much of our infrastructures are prepared for this the sort of thing,” he said.

Bill Nye breaks down significance of the solar storm | CNN

This post has been updated with more details on solar flares' impact on electronics.

Here's where clouds will block the view of the northern lights in the US

From CNN's Angela Fritz

After an incredibly stormy week, most of the Lower 48 has clear skies to see the northern lights. But there are some areas where clouds and rainy weather are spoiling the view.

A deck of clouds is blocking the sky in the Northeast, from parts of Virginia into Maine, as an area of low pressure spins off the East Coast.

In the Midwest, the aurora will be hard to see through thick clouds in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan — including the Upper Peninsula — and Illinois.

A stripe of clouds is tracking across Texas, including Dallas-Forth Worth, and into Louisiana.

And in the Southwest, patchy clouds across the the Four Corners region could make the northern lights difficult to spot.

Aurora seen at least as far south as Georgia

Barely visible to the naked eye, the aurora can be seen in Atlanta in the 10 p.m. ET hour. 

It is easier to see through photographs using a long exposure. The photos below, taken by CNN's Eric Zerkel and Emily Smith, used 3- and 10-second exposures.

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