Kevin
A life-long Chicagoan, Kevin has been a resident of the picturesque Andersonville neighborhood, in the city's far north side community of Edgewater, for the last 43 years. A member of the Chicago Tour Guide Professionals Association , Kevin loves to share his passion for Chicago with everyone he meets, visitors and residents alike. In this capacity, he works as an independent tour guide, specializing in all things Chicago.
What is your favorite story about Chicago?
Chicago's Water Tower is one of only half a dozen structures to survive the Great Chicago Fire . There is a story told about a quick-thinking watchman at the pumping station across the street that saw the glow from the fire off in the distance and, fearing its impending arrival, went straight to a local tannery to load up his wagon with hides. Racing back to the pumping station, he and a colleague hoisted the hides up to the roof and poured water on them to get them soaking wet. As a result, the Water Tower and pumping station were spared from the burning embers of the rapidly approaching inferno. Fearing he would die in the fire, however, the watchman hanged himself in the Water Tower, where his body was found after the fire was extinguished. People say his ghost still visits the old Water Tower on dark and stormy nights!
What is your favorite spot in Chicago?
The Museum of Science and Industry. Given its history, from the Worlds Fair of 1893 to the incredible content inside, it is truly a gem.
What is your favorite season in Chicago?
Fall; it's the best time to visit Chicago the weather is perfect.
Where do you like to take visitors from out of town?
The Riverwalk from Navy Pier to Michigan Avenue, as well as Grant Park.
Where would you say is the best view of the Chicago skyline?
Solidarity Drive, out by the Adler Planetarium. This offers the most comprehensive view of the city.
What do you consider to be Chicago's best 'hidden spot'?
The Alfred Caldwell Lilly Pool, on Fullerton. This is just on the north end of the very popular Lincoln Park Zoo, yet very few people know of it.
What do you think is Chicago's most well-kept secret?
The Garfield Park Conservatory. Everybody knows about the Lincoln Park Conservatory, but Garfield Park Conservatory remains a fairly quiet gem on the West side.
Are you a Cubs or Sox fan?
Cubs, all the way! Sure, it's been over 100 years since they've been World Series winners, but when they do get there, the party will be huge!
What would you consider to be the best way to see the city?
Walking is the best way to get up close and personal with this, the friendliest city in America.
What neighborhood would you most recommend to visitors?
Lincoln Square. This is part of the old German community that once thrived in Chicago. Not much of the heritage is left, but it is still very quaint, and is the best place to celebrate May Fest and October Fest.
Where is your favorite restaurant in the city?
The Patio, on Halsted. They have the best Polish sausage and Italian beef in Chicago!
What's your favorite Chicago pizza?
Uno's, without a doubt! This is where it was created, by Ike Sewell, in 1943.
What is Chicago's best independent bookstore?
57th Street Books/Seminary Co-Op, in Hyde Park, right near the University of Chicago.
What is Chicago's least-known monument?
Balboa Column, on Museum Campus. This is Chicago's only monument dedicated to Facism!
Where can one get the best bird's eye view of Chicago?
The John Hancock, thanks to their outdoor walkway, and better view of Navy Pier.
