After the election of Chicago native Barack Obama as President, Chicago has become quite the hot spot for tourists. From frequenting the same barber shop as the President to eating at his favorite restaurants, people are swarming to the Windy City.

But there is much more to do than just sit at the same table the President and First Lady had their last Chicago Valentine’s Day dinner.

Here are my recommendations for the best ways to spend some time in Chi-Town:

5. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the Hancock Observatory or save the Observatory fee and have a drink at the Signature Room Lounge on the 96th floor. (Hint: The view from the woman’s bathroom is the best! Sorry guys.)

4. Think Rod Blagojevich was corrupt? Investigate old gangster hot spots and hit spots as part of a Chicago Gangster Tour and see where Chicago corruption really began!

3. Educate yourself - Check out Chicago’s Museum Campus and all of the great museums Chicago has to offer. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry, the Field Museum, the Adler Planetarium, and the Shedd Aquarium. But don’t forget to order your Chicago City Pass before you go to save you time and money.

2. Stroll around Millennium Park. See what Chicagoan’s refer to as “the bean,” play in the interactive Crown Fountain, and visit the nearby Art Institute to view priceless works of art. (Don’t forget your ISIC for discounted admission!)

1. Enjoy a Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza and then make your way to Kingston Mines to listen to some Sweet Home Chicago Blues. (Your ISIC card can get you a discount at Kingston Mines, too.)

You could also choose from shopping the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, taking an architectural tour on the Chicago River, visiting historic Wrigley field, or, if you wanted to focus on celebrations, Chicago goes insane for St. Patrick’s Day, including turning the river green and numerous parades.

See you soon!

P.S. – Today’s destination in the Travel Bailout is the Windy City!

Photo Credit: Flipped Out on Flickr