$ Matters with Mary

Destination: Windy City/Chicago Take me out to the Ball Game! The fun never ends. We are going to Wrigley Field for Father’s Day! Gary’s beloved Cleveland Indians are playing the Chicago Cubs. Since we insist on cramming in as much as possible - planning and budgeting become important. The first thing we had to do was secure 4 tickets to the game. There was no cheap way to do this. So this was one item that we were willing to spend top $ on.

Secondly we are very efficient with our time. Time = Fun. Public transportation is the cheapest and often easiest way around a big city. Chicago is no exception. By design our lodging was walking distance to an “L” station. Chicago's transportation system. We found the 3 day pass was perfect for us. We had unlimited use of the trains and buses. And it was cheap - $14 for 3 days and no wasted time in traffic or trying to park. Travel Tip – to save more time order your passes online. Allow 10 days for them to arrive in the mail.

Of course we had our food plans. Not wanting to spend $ on food at the game we had a feast for a late breakfast at Ann Sather’s. The portions were huge; the food was fantastic, and the cost reasonable. Every meal came with these incredible cinnamon buns. I’m dreaming of one now. $ Saving Tip – Share a meal!

Walking from the restaurant to Wrigley Field was a blast. You get caught up in the excitement of the crowd, vendors, sights and sounds. This is a place we have seen on TV hundreds of times but there is NOTHING like being there. It is old, historic and American. Our seats were great, the fans awesome, and the weather beautiful. It was a perfect Father’s Day. And worth every cent.

Next week – Millennium Park and The Bean

Until then – I’m looking for fun and food in your city………………………….