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City Cast Chicago

Emily Mack

Sidney Madden

Chicago airports will be busy this week as travelers fly to see loved ones for the holidays. So whether you have time to kill before takeoff or are facing an unexpected delay, here’s what to do at O’Hare and Midway airports.

 for a quick stretch at the Terminal 3 Rotunda.

💪 Grab a day pass to squeeze in a workout, swim, or sauna session at the connecting 

 in Terminal 2 to let off some steam and to occasionally catch some live entertainment.

 for mass and worship — including holiday services.

cheap flights guru Scott Keyes swears by Rick Bayless’ Tortas Frontera

. (I can attest — the chorizo breakfast torta is solid before a red-eye takeoff.)

, which the airport was named after, near the entrance to Concourse A.

, located in Concourse C, for travelers to unwind.

🍽️ For food, I have a hot take: the 

 in Midway serves better burgers than any other location in the city. I don't know why.

, the official Midway lounge, is now open to all travelers. Entrance costs $60. 

Best of luck to everyone flying over the holidays!

Whether you have time to kill before takeoff or are facing an unexpected delay, here’s what to do at O’Hare and Midway airports.

The Chicago Travelers’ Guide to O’Hare, Midway 

Tips and tricks for living your best Chicago life, by locals, for locals.

Chicago Life Hacks

Nearly 300 new laws went into effect in Illinois last week. Here are the ones that caught our attention.

If you’re job hunting in the new year, you’ll be happy to hear that employers in Illinois with 15 or more employees now have to include pay scale and benefits on job postings — including for remote work. Don’t see the information? 

File a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor

. And, yes, you’ll need to bring receipts (e.g., link, picture, or screenshot).

The state minimum wage for workers 18 and up went up a dollar to $15 per hour. Tipped workers will make $9 per hour, a 60-cent increase. 

 is $16.20 and the tipped minimum wage is $11.02. They’ll go up in July.

A landlord cannot evict someone, increase rent, or file a lawsuit as retaliation to a tenant’s complaint. An Injustice Watch investigation last year found the 

legal system is set up to protect landlords

 is a special type of love language in Chicago, but you might have to time your arrival better. A new law prohibits drivers from stopping or parking vehicles on the shoulder near O’Hare.

Forget your ID at home? Misplace your driver’s license? A new law clears the way for digital IDs for Illinoians to accompany their physical cards — but Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias hasn’t yet shared a timeline on the rollout.

5 Illinois Laws Now in Effect in 2025

5 New Illinois Laws to Know

What's being decided in Chicago City Hall and why it matters. We monitor local elections, political news, and Chicago City Council. 

Chicago Election and City Hall News

Local Civics

The holidays are always a time of fantasy, whimsy, and magic. And what better time than this to step out of your usual routine to experience something exciting and new? If you are a Christmas movie fan like we are, chances are, you’ve seen "Home Alone." It was one of my favorite holiday movies as a kid. True fans can check out the

! It is the actual home used in part of the filming of this 

. This "Home Alone" movie house in Illinois will surely bring back some of your fond childhood memories like it did for us!

If you’ve ever wondered, “Where Is the 

 in Illinois?” Well, it's located at 671 Lincoln Ave. in Winnetka and it's absolutely incredible. It's as good a 

 as any in northeast Illinois to visit an iconic home once featured in a popular Christmas movie that is known and loved by millions.

The house was built in 1920. Situated in the north suburb of 

, it was chosen for the 1990 hit film for its timeless appearance and size. It is certainly the type of home that a kid wouldn't mind being left home alone in ... I know I wouldn't mind! And it is also the type of home that bandits could use to get up to a lot of 

The home sits on a half-acre lot and encompasses 4,200 square feet. One of many truly stately and 

, the house has five bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, as well as a west wing master suite with four rooms of its own. Now updated from its original appearance in the movie, this home is fitted with a wealth of modern amenities.

Despite this, and how long it's now been since the movie was filmed here (one of many 

), people still refer to it as the "Home Alone" Illinois house, or simply the "Home Alone" house. Originally more than $2 million, the price of this mansion today probably sits closer to about $1.5 million. If you are from Chicago or the surrounding area, you may often get asked by visitors if you've ever been here!

As a small child, were you ever inadvertently left "home alone?" Of course, the home is visited by a regular cast of characters each year who want to get a glimpse of the house from their favorite 

 — and repeat that famous Macaulay Culkin look!

Have you ever been to the "Home Alone" movie house? If you did, we hope that it brought back some fun childhood memories for you.

11 historic houses in Illinois you can tour

The "Home Alone" house up the North Shore is a must-see for fans of the classic Christmas movie.

Where is the 'Home Alone' House?

You Can Drive by the Actual House From the Classic Christmas Movie “Home Alone” in Illinois

What Chicagoans have been wondering. We break down why things in Chicago are the way they are and how they work.

Chicago, Explained

The cold is here, and snow is inevitable. So here’s a reminder on how to safely navigate Chicago’s winter roads.

Before bad weather really sets in, give your car a 

 — check your battery health, lights, brakes, wipers, windshield fluid, and tire pressure. (Pro tip: Make sure you have de-icing windshield fluid.)

: Put a quarter into the tread of your tire and look for George Washington’s head. If you can see any part of the top of his head, you don’t have enough tread, and you should replace those tires.

Planning a trip outside the city and its salted streets? Invest in the right tires — either snow / all-season wheels. Snow chains are legal in Illinois, but are dangerous on bare roads.

Keep your gas tank at least half full to decrease the risk of getting stranded in bad weather.

 in your car in the event you are stranded.

Know your route — look at a map before you start driving to avoid extra distraction on your GPS or getting lost.

Maintain steady speeds and keep extra space between yourself and other cars — no matter what type of vehicle you have.

Be extra careful on bridges and underpasses, which tend to be slickest.

Remove all snow and ice from your windows, hood, and roof before you drive.

If you begin to skid, let off the accelerator and brake, then turn your steering wheel in the direction you want to go.

Tips for Winter Driving in Chicago

 through New Year's, many of us have a calendar filled with events, parties, and family gatherings, not to mention the cooking, hosting, and gift-buying we are tasked with. Add traveling somewhere during the holiday season and that's just an entirely new level of stress! I have flown many times around the holidays, both within the U.S. and abroad, and also taken long road trips to visit family during this season. It's safe to say I'm a 

Whether you plan to take a road trip to see family or fly somewhere within our country or beyond, here are some helpful travel tips to help alleviate some of your stress this upcoming holiday season:

As someone who loves to plan ahead for any trip, I will book a 

t as far in advance as I can. In fact, I just purchased my plane tickets to the East Coast for Christmas and New Year's 

(and, believe me, that has already saved me from any potential anxiety)

As the cost or the use of credit card points becomes a factor when booking plane tickets for many of us, try as hard as possible to book a direct flight. If not, make sure there's enough time between flights if you have to book a flight with connections. That way, if your initial flight is delayed, you'll have less of a chance of missing your second flight.

Take a carry-on bag with your necessities.

In an ideal world, I would only ever travel with a 

. However, since my destination is normally a colder climate during the holidays, my sweaters, boots, and other cold-weather gear just won't fit into such a small bag. So, I will check a bag and then pack my medications, an extra pair of clothing, and pajamas just in case my luggage gets lost in transit. This gives me great peace of mind.

Get to the airport several hours before your flight.

Did you know that the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after Thanksgiving are typically the busiest travel days of the year? Also, the days leading up to Christmas are also among the busiest days as well. I suggest you get to the airport at least three hours before a domestic flight. Keep in mind that the airport will have far more travelers than normal, so the queues for check-in and security will be long. I've almost missed a few flights due to long lines at security and believe me when I tell you — I was super stressed!

If you're not staying with family or friends at your destination and need to book accommodations, you should also book your 

 in advance. Depending on where you're spending the holidays, hotels and rentals can get booked up fairly quicky, especially in larger cities that host popular holiday events.

Check the weather if you plan on driving, and time your drive accordingly.

I was working on a TV show in Maryland several years ago and decided to drive the six hours to Rhode Island to enjoy Thanksgiving with my family. Well, it actually took me about eight hours due to snowy weather and a bad car accident on the highway that caused a massive detour. 

Whenever I take a long road trip now, I check both the weather and traffic conditions to help me plan when to leave and the best route to take. Due to family 

 during the holiday season, you may have to leave an hour or two earlier than you normally would to account for traffic, weather, and any detours along the way.

Whether you're flying or driving, pack snacks, a book, and/or a tablet.

 for your journey no matter how you get to your destination. Furthermore, loading your tablet with your favorite shows or bringing a good book is a great way to pass the time and take your mind off any travel anxiety you may have.

Send any presents to your destination ahead of time.

This travel tip has saved me huge headaches. I usually avoid crowds as much as possible and do most of my 

. However, instead of having everything delivered to my house, I will have it shipped in my name to a family member's house instead and wrap everything when I arrive. This saves on room in my luggage and any additional baggage fees as well as gives me the peace of mind that your bag full of gifts won't get lost by the airline.

Anything can happen during the holiday season, especially in cold-weather. Your flight may be delayed or even canceled due to a snowstorm. As stressful as that can be, try to maintain your composure, take deep breaths, and know that you eventually will get to your destination.

Do you have any other holiday travel tips? What are they? No matter what you do or where you go this upcoming holiday season, safe travels!

Survive Travel During the Holiday Season With These Helpful Tips

Chicago may not be the Paris of the Midwest — 

 — but there are plenty of ways locals can get a taste of France at home as the Olympics begin in the City of Light this week.

Everyone and their mom is tuning in for Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka, 

but don’t forget to watch athletes with Chicagoland ties, too

Rhythmic gymnast Evita Griskenas’ second Olympics after competing in the 

In soccer, Red Stars Alyssa Naeher and Mallory Swanson will represent Team USA, and Julia Grosso will represent Team Canada.

Shamier Little, a Lindblom alum, is a force to be reckoned with in the 400-meter hurdles.

The opening ceremony starts Friday at 12:30 p.m. CDT, and you can watch the games around town at the 

a French cultural institute on the Near North Side

 that night. Then, catch the games at these 

City Cast Chicago executive producer Simone Alicea finally dined at 

 in Lincoln Square and says the French onion soup and the absinthe cocktails are out of this world.

City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran went to 

 in Fulton Market before his big trip to Paris earlier this year.

As for me, Hey Chicago newsletter editor Sidney Madden, I miss the crepes from the now-closed 

 downtown. At least there’s a Hinsdale location.

And City Cast Chicago producer Michelle Navarro is on the lookout for her first French bites in the city! Should she try an 

 in Lincoln Park over the next few weeks.

Plus, if you’re planning to visit Paris in the next few months, one cheap flights guru told Hey Chicago the best time to book an international flight is 

Root for hometown athletes and get a taste of France without the eight-hour flight.

The Best Ways to Celebrate the Olympics (From Chicago)

Find the best of everything that Chicago has to offer.

Chicago’s Best

Chicago's Best

Wondering what to do with your out-of-town visitors this Memorial Day weekend? Or want to play tourist yourself? Book a tour and learn about Chicago food, architecture, and more.

You can’t really go wrong with any of the river cruises, but this 90-minute ride on Chicago’s First Lady has gotten many accolades over the years for good reason. Known as one of the more educational river cruises, guides know their stuff.

Historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas isn’t just teaching people about the greatest city in the world on TikTok — he’s also giving bus tours IRL. Join him in learning about Bronzeville, Englewood, North Lawndale, Pilsen, Little Village, and more.

If you are looking for something unique, Mike McMains is your guy. His tours range from 

 to underground rats to LGBTQ stories. Plus, he’s an expert on how YOU can be the 

This free tour offered through Choose Chicago is best for 

visitors who want to explore outside of downtown

. Neighborhood pop-up walks are offered on Saturdays.

Exploring the city’s underground tunnels can be intimidating for anyone. But if you are hoping to use the Pedway to get around, consider going with a tour guide first. Walk past underground pools, stained glass, and more.

This tour company offers biking, walking, and food tours across Chicago. I just took some family on this Chinatown food tour where we sampled different regional cuisines. I’m still thinking of the dim sum 🤤

Whether you want to go on a running tour, trail run, or book club run, this group does it all. Plus, Read & Run is starting chapters in other cities. If you’re in San Diego or Los Angeles in the next few weeks, 

Calling Chicago beer lovers: Hop aboard the Barrel Bus to learn about and visit breweries like Lake Effect, Revolution, Goose Island, Burning Bush, Pilot Project, On Tour, and Great Central.

From Chicago food to architecture, book a tour this Memorial Day weekend.

The Best Chicago Tours

Sara Faddah and Dario Durham are no strangers to adventure: The couple ate their way through Chicago’s 77 community areas, and now they are jet-setting across the world in their new podcast, “

Ahead of the two-part premiere Thursday, Faddah, a seasoned traveler, and Durham, a newbie, gave Hey Chicago a taste of their new project.

Where did the idea for the podcast come from?

: “It probably subconsciously started when we were first planning our big trip. A lot of the resources we were reading were from people who didn't look like us. And if you are someone that's Black or brown and you've traveled around the world, you know that the experience differs. We wanted to create a platform where we can share stories and give authentic advice and recommendations.”

: “It's whatever documentary Dario has watched recently and has become his obsession.”

: “I have loved Egypt as far as I can remember as a child. … While we were in Jordan (where Sara is from), we just took the short 45-minute flight over to Egypt. … It's really a wormhole of where do we want to see? Where's some history?”

What could Chicago learn from other places?

: “The No. 1 takeaway from our time in Europe was that the transit system was out of control. Even when we went from Rome to Milan or Florence, that was a two-or three-hour train. It was comfortable and easy to navigate.”

: “In places like Jordan and Egypt, the hospitality there is just unmatched. Same thing in Mexico — we always feel that you walk anywhere and into any place and you feel immediately welcome no matter what you look like and what the color of your skin is.”

📍 How "77 Flavors" took off

Meet the Chicagoans Behind "Traveling While POC"

What Chicago celebrities, public figures and key citizens have to say about living here.

3 Questions With Chicago Public Figures

3 Questions With

Don’t have a car? Don’t want to drive? Can’t drive? Explore nearby getaways by bus and train!

⏰ 1 hour 45 minutes from Millennium Station

Explore sand dunes, woodlands, prairies, beaches, and more at the national and state parks — with fewer crowds. Be prepared to hike and spot various bird species.

⏰ 3 hours 30 minutes from 630 W. Harrison St. bus stop

Wisconsin's capital has a lot to do like shopping at the Dane County Farmers Market and biking the Lake Monona Loop. And there’s a lot to eat like cheese curds, onion rings, and fish fry from the Old Fashioned.

⏰ 3 hours 30 minutes from Union Station

In addition to the usual waterpark fun at the Dells, go horseback riding, ziplining, and ride festive trains. Don’t miss craft brewery events!

Head to the western Michigan town for apple-picking, fresh apple cider, and haunted houses. Foodies can enjoy poutine week and a chili cookoff.

Bring the fam for scary fun with Fright at the City Museum and Fright Fest at Six Flags St. Louis. Check out apple butter and storytelling fests.

Explore nearby getaways by bus and train!

How to Travel the Midwest — Without a Car

Wondering what to do with end-of-summer visitors? Take them on a neighborhood tour with 

, where locals have volunteered to show tourists around for more than 20 years.

Sharyne Moy Tu has been giving tours in Chinatown and the Loop to visitors from across the U.S. and more than 30 countries for five years.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

About 95% of my guests want to experience a neighborhood outside of downtown and take the L. So I take them on the Red Line, and we tour Wentworth Avenue — the bakeries, the square, the library, and go for dim sum because most folks have not heard of or tried it.

I customize tours to the visitors’ interests and where they’ve been in the city. I go on other tours — 

 — to learn more. And, I get a lot of exercise, too.

How have you changed visitors’ minds about Chicago?

Chicago is not on the top of the list for most international visitors — it’s usually New York City or San Francisco or LA. They don’t realize how great our city is. And so we show them around, and they’re amazed that Chicago is so clean, that the lake looks like an ocean, and we have great public transit.

What’s something surprising that has come out of the tours?

I have made many lasting friendships. Some I keep in touch with through Instagram. There was a family from Argentina who came last year and returned this year.

 to give tours in Chatham, South Shore, West Ridge, Garfield Park, and Rogers Park. Bonus points if you speak another language.

📍 Plus, Hey Chicago neighborhood guides

Wondering what to do with end-of-summer visitors? Take them on a neighborhood tour with Chicago Greeter.

travel

The Chicago Travelers’ Guide to O’Hare, Midway

5 New Illinois Laws to Know

You Can Drive by the Actual House From the Classic Christmas Movie “Home Alone” in Illinois

Latest articles

The Chicago Travelers’ Guide to O’Hare, Midway

5 New Illinois Laws to Know

You Can Drive by the Actual House From the Classic Christmas Movie “Home Alone” in Illinois

Tips for Winter Driving in Chicago

Survive Travel During the Holiday Season With These Helpful Tips

The Best Ways to Celebrate the Olympics (From Chicago)

The Best Chicago Tours

Latest articles

Tips for Winter Driving in Chicago

Survive Travel During the Holiday Season With These Helpful Tips

The Best Ways to Celebrate the Olympics (From Chicago)

The Best Chicago Tours

Meet the Chicagoans Behind "Traveling While POC"

How to Travel the Midwest — Without a Car

How This Tour Guide Changes Visitors' Minds About Chicago