Chicago History Museum

Chicago is a city with a lot to offer. You’ll find enough museums and attractions around the loop area too keep you busy for days. However, there is one museum, just off the beaten path, that I find worth a stop if you have a bit of time to spare after close of business or between meetings. The Chicago History Museum is located on the edge of Lincoln Park on North Clark Street and is just a couple of miles from the business center of Chicago. The permanent collection includes artifacts from the great Chicago fire, numerous items related to Abraham Lincoln, including his death bed, life mask, and articles from his funeral. There are also sections on Fort Dearborn, the Worlds Fair, and local culture. SAS Score: 3

Texas Capital Building

Located at Congress and 11th Street, the Texas State Capital Building was considered the seventh largest building in the world when built in 1885. Tours of the building are free and when congress is not in session, you may roam around the house and senate floors. However, the rotunda area alone is worth the visit. A bit of hearsay, but I’m told the crack in the center of the Terrazzo mosaic in the center of the rotunda was made by a falling painter; others have said it’s simply settling that caused it.

I’m of the opinion they just don’t build things like they used to, and the details found in and around the Capital are amazing. From the etched glass to the door hinges that read “Texas Capital”, these details are incredible. The Capital is also filled with paintings and statues focused on Texas’ history.

Outside, within the 22 acres comprising the Capital grounds, there are many monuments to take in, including the first, “Heroes of the Alamo” and Terry’s Texas Rangers, Vietnam Veterans, Confederate Soldiers, among others. SAS Score: 4