Chicago: Frozen Fingers & Questionable Hot Dogs
okay, so chicago. it’s…a lot. i landed a few days ago, chasing a rumor about a legendary blues jam session that apparently happens in a basement somewhere near *Wicker Park. haven’t found it yet, mostly because i’ve been distracted by the sheer chill in the air. i just checked and it’s…actively trying to turn my nose into a popsicle, honestly. -4.99 celsius, they say. feels like -11.25. which, let’s be real, is just a fancy way of saying “brutal.”
my main problem is layers. i thought i packed enough, but apparently, “enough” in chicago means “enough to build a small fort.” i’m currently rocking three sweaters, a scarf that feels suspiciously like it’s judging me, and gloves that make it impossible to operate my phone. which is a problem, because i need to document this chaos.
been wandering around, mostly. the architecture is insane, obviously. like, seriously, someone just decided to build skyscrapers that look like they’re trying to touch the clouds. i spent a good hour staring at the Chicago Cultural Center just trying to figure out how they even did that. it’s beautiful, but also…intimidating.
food situation is…interesting. i tried a hot dog from a street vendor. someone told me it’s a religious experience. it wasn’t. it was…a hot dog. with a lot of stuff on it. i’m not sure i understood all the stuff on it. i think there were pickles involved. and neon green relish. i’m still processing. you can find some reviews on Yelp.
blockquote>
“oh, don’t go near that place on Milwaukee Ave. they use…questionable meat. just trust me on this one.”
endblockquote
my neighbors seem to be mostly people bundled up in enormous coats, staring straight ahead and walking very quickly. it’s a vibe. if you get restless, Milwaukee and Madison are just a quick train ride away, i guess. i haven’t ventured that far yet. too cold.
been trying to find some live music, but everything seems to be either super fancy jazz clubs (not my scene) or dive bars that smell faintly of regret (potentially my scene, but i need to build up to it). i did stumble across a cool record store in Lincoln Park though. Dust & Grooves - seriously, if you’re into vinyl, check it out. it’s a rabbit hole.
blockquote>
“the blues scene is dead, man. it’s all electronic music now. unless you know someone, you’re outta luck.”
endblockquote
heard a rumor about a secret speakeasy hidden behind a pizza* place. i’m investigating. will report back. also, someone warned me about the pigeons. apparently, they’re aggressive. i haven’t encountered any yet, but i’m now actively scanning the skies. you can find more info about Chicago on TripAdvisor.
my current plan is to find a coffee shop, thaw my fingers, and maybe attempt to decipher the city’s public transportation system. it looks…complicated. i’m also considering investing in a thermal onesie. seriously. it’s that cold. check out this local guide for more tips: Choose Chicago. i'm starting to think i need a vacation from my vacation. this place is wild.
You might also be interested in:
- https://votoris.com/post/ulsan-where-familyfriendly-meets-is-this-even-safe
- https://votoris.com/post/adana-turkey-my-camera-almost-froze-and-other-chaotic-tales
- https://votoris.com/post/lost-in-lisbon-a-digital-nomads-scattered-notes
- https://votoris.com/post/dusty-lungs-desert-sun-air-quality-thrift-vibes-in-mexicali
- https://votoris.com/post/sheffield-weather-a-drummers-guide-to-surviving-moodswing-skies-cheap-beer