Real City Chicago

DK always put out great books. They are always very informative and helpful and have great pictures and depth. This is very much like a regular travel guide, but it's a good size and has a little more than usually covered in other guides. This passes on all the background information like history etc, and goes straight to top attractions, restaurants, shopping (the best part) art and architecture, performance, bars and clubs, streetlife, havens, hotels and street finders. I believe with this book, there are a few more out of the way places listed, so you get a little off the beaten path. In the Streetlife portion of the book, it even states that "to see the true Chicago, you must explore beyond the Sears Tower and deep-dish pizza". And from there they talk about Lakeview and Wrigleyville, Wicker Park, Pilsen, Taylor St etc so for a start that's some more that other guides may not have. There are more photos when talking about hotels and bigger area maps. Overall, this book is so helpful for either the first time visitor to this amazing city, or to someone who's been before, but wants more out of their visit. If you fit into either of those two catagories, then you'll love this book and find it as helpful as I did. I'd recommend this book over most other guides (with the exception of Time Out).