Shedd Aquarium and Sears/Willis Tower

Our first major excursion was to the Shedd Aquarium. After we figured out the complicated parking situation, we enjoyed it thoroughly. The dolphin show was fantastic--like Cirque du Soliel with Beluga whales.
We bought a family pass for the year (which was about $5 more than the cost of admission for two adults and one child.

The view of the skyline from the outside of the aquarium is magnificent. But the flash from the camera blew it out when we were in the picture.

So this is what it looks like with no flash:
Cool, huh? Chicago architecture is growing on us quickly.

Our second big excursion was to see the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower). We're not sure if we offend more people by calling it the Sears Tower or the Willis Tower. Chicagoans seem to prefer Sears Tower.

We chose to go on a clear night. The highlight of the Sears Tower tour is the very end section where you can step out onto an enclosed balcony with a transparent floor.
Marin, who loves heights, this is was fantastic. Charlie, who has no opinion on heights one way or another, prefered to spend his time running up and down the hallways. Gil, um, well, Gil read the very interesting written on the walls, away from the windows.
Like I said, Chicago architecture is really growing on us.