Planning on heading to the nation's capital to celebrate Obama's historic presidential inauguration? We say skip it -- you know it's going to be a madhouse, and it only seems fitting to celebrate Obama's win in his hometown.
Here's a list of events happening in and around Chi-town on the big day.
In Chicago - Metromix lists daytime parties and evening Inaugural balls.
In Lake County - Plenty of inaugural events are happening outside the city. Click here.
Watch Obama cross the finish line at the Hawthorne Racetrack.
The InterContinental Chicago agrees with us and is offering a "Presidential Perks" package starting in January.
Included in this opportune offer is overnight accommodations at the historic Michigan Avenue hotel, two tickets to the nearby Freedom Museum (presumably to brush up on your U.S. history as the nation's 44th president is sworn in), a breakfast buffet of American classics, free access to the fitness club and the picturesque indoor pool and complimentary valet parking for your stay. Rates start at $209 a night, and this patriotic package is available from January 1 through March 31.
By then, we figure Obama will have solved the economic crisis, but, if not, there's the InterContinental's "Economic Stimulus" package, which includes overnight accommodations in the property's Historic Tower (which was built in 1929), plus a $50 credit to use in the hotel's three restaurants. You'll also get free fitness club and pool access, complimentary high-speed Internet use (to check your stocks, of course) and half-off of valet parking. (Rates start at $209; package available January 1-March 31).
If you're more of a tree hugger than a politico, take part in the InterContinental's eco-luxury "Go Green" offer. The InterContinental, which is Chicago's only Green Seal-certified and Energy Star-rated hotel, is offering $219-a-night accommodations in the Historic Tower (which was updated this past year with energy-saving appliances and fixtures), two Treetinis at The Bar (a enviro-aware cocktail that comes complete with a tree planting and a donation to rainforest preservation in your honor) and a free CTA public transportation pass for each day of your stay.
