Knopf Mapguide: Chicago

These are terrific guides for walking and transiting around the core of metro areas, and they fit in my small camera waist pack, unlike the conventional-sized guides. We found this book very useful for a 3-day trip to Chicago in which we got around on the elevated and other trains most of the time. The multiple pages of foldout maps are far better than the single pop-ups or small single foldouts in some guides. They map and describe the key historic, cultural, architectural features and shopping areas you want to see within a few days and they have great maps for getting around on foot. They include a few restaurant recommendations, but they tend to be expensive ones rather than a range of prices including some cheap local flavor faves.

I've faithfully used my London Knopf CityGuide on a couple trips there. When my boyfriend moved to the Windy City, this was the obvious Welcome to Chicago gift. These guides are lightweight and very easy to use. You get just a few listings for each section of the city that's mapped. The real stars are the maps - very clear! If you're the type of person who really like orienting themselves w/maps, check to see if your next destination has a Knopf MapGuide. They are just the right size and easily fold and unfold - you can check your map w/o looking lost. Happy Travels!