The Gold Coast Historic District, where our B&B was located, is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the country.  So, rather than take the most direct route to visit the Saturday organic farmers market, we opted for the more scenic route along Deerborn Ave.  Wow; what a gorgeous leafy residential street of mansions, row houses, and pricey apartment buildings.

Green City Market’s  ( www.greencitymarket.org ) mission is one that Laura and I could really get behind, “Green City Market’s mission is to improve the availability of a diverse range of high quality foods by providing a marketplace for purchasing sustainably grown food and to educate, promote, and connect farmers and local producers directly to chefs, restaurateurs and the greater Chicago community. We also support small family farms and promote a healthier society through education and appreciation for local, fresh, sustainably-raised products.”

This market was perfect; outstanding organic produce, wonderful cheese, beautifully baked breads, tempting freshly prepared crepes and dishes, gorgeous flowers- everything; even plenty of cute dogs to pet! 

The quality was outstanding, so it was unfortunate our travels prevented us from buying a bag of produce to take home.  Instead, I opted for a pretzel roll, just like the ones I bought at bakeries in Germany, during my river cruise.  It was perfect match for the Goose Island Matilda Belgian Pale Ale that I sipped at Old Town Social (www.OldTownSocial.com), while cooling off with Laura.

Before we continued on to Old Town Social, though, I couldn’t resist a quick stop at my coffee shop (But, I don’t even drink coffee!):

Saturday in Chicago was another burner, so the crowds were large down at the shore; our final stop before throwing in the towel and heading back to the B&B to cool off.

For our final dinner in Chicago, we landed at the India House ( http://www.indiahousechicago.com/ ), where we enjoyed outstanding Indian cuisine, before heading to the Navy Pier for a spectacular firework (and lightening!) show.  We had noticed (very) dark clouds off in the distance, while we were at the beach; the same clouds, I would assume, that erupted during the fireworks display.  It was quite a sight!  And, wouldn’t you know it?  As soon as the fireworks ended, the clouds burst open above us.  Thankfully, I had decided to bring my umbrella at the last minute…

So, that is where the Chicago leg of our Illinois journey ends.  The following day, we were off to Crystal Lake aboard the Metra train.  Standby; the train will be departing soon!