Damkier's Travels: A Tale of Two Chicagos

Chicago River

It has been a long time since I updated my travel blog. I have been traveling, but between a stressful year at work and saving for a new house, my trips have been rather mild. Nevertheless, I am working to update my blog with a few gems from the past year. Chicago was a destination twice this year. The first trip was in July for my friend's surprise 40th birthday party; the second was a last minute escape from the horrendous wildfire in Northern California. Both were very different, but still an interesting journey.

Chicago River at Sunset

July is a rather tough time to visit Chicago. The weather is often hot and humid with lots of unpredictable thunderstorms and the occasional gorgeous day. My trip included all of the above. My flight was delayed leaving Sacramento which meant I was unable to arrive at the restaurant in which my friend was being surprised for his birthday. I was in constant communication with his girlfriend with competing Lyft rides attempting to arrive early. He was very shocked to see the party and even more shocked to see me sneak up behind him after missing the big reveal. My bags were still in the corner since I didn't even have time to hit the hotel. I even had to change in the airport bathroom!

Downtown Chicago and Elevated Train

Most of the weekend was spent with my friend and his family enjoying the time and World Cup action. On my final day, I was able to sneak him away for a nice time in downtown Chicago eating Italian Beef sandwiches and riding in his boat down the Chicago river. I also managed to get in some museum time and a little alone time at my hotel.

My second visit to Chicago in 2018 was a bit different. The terrible Camp Fire created a smoke plume that choked the entire Sacramento and San Francisco Bay Area for 12 days with unhealthy and hazardous air causing many health problems and closing work and schools across Northern California. After our work closed, I hopped on a plane to escape the smoke to again visit my friend in a much colder and snowier climate. I was able to breathe again and slowly recover while watching the snow fall and teleworking.

Wrigley Field with Snow

I was able to finally pull myself out of the apartment and do a little sightseeing while in Chicago. The freezing temperatures and snow were a challenge, but after being on house arrest with the smoke, a little frozen water could not stop me. Chicago in the winter is as brutal as their summers with wind and snow making everything difficult. Fortunately with no plans and lots of time, I was able to take it easy and do some exploring.

Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza

Of course I had to eat while in town. Having access to a refrigerator allows the consumption of fresh deep dish pizza for dinner and breakfast! Delivery is a great option when it is cold outside too. I had my usual Italian Beef and even was able to go out to a swank and hip restaurant with a couple I met at the birthday party earlier in the year! It was very difficult to enjoy this trip after seeing the horror of the Camp Fire and knowing the miserable conditions back home, but I attempted trips to the Art Institute, Macy's Flagship Store, and Wrigley Field to remember what normal looks like.

Frozen Pumpkins and Snow

I am lucky to have a friend in Chicago which allows me to explore America's Second City. Unfortunately, I chose two of the worst times to visit the city even though the reasons were good. The rain has moved into Sacramento and the smoke and fire are gone for now, but the region has changed and still needs help. Please donate if possible to the recovery efforts and enjoy the rest of my Chicago photos below.