Chicago is surprisingly
eco-friendly
Photo: Raymond Hillstrom,
Lonely Planet Images

by Brook Wilkinson

If you think the only thing green about Chicago is the river on St. Patrick's Day, think again. The Windy City actually has more green roofs than anywhere else in the U.S., and Mayor Daly recently embarked on a project to green Chicago's alleys. Now the InterContinental Chicago has been awarded the Energy Star rating by the EPA, and is celebrating with a green package available until Labor Day. The Eco-Friendly Holiday Package includes one night's accommodations, a one-day bicycle rental for two (to lessen your carbon footprint), a one-day private guided tour of the city's neighborhoods, and a fruit basket and bottle of biodynamic wine. Package rates start at $259--quite a deal, since a standard room typically goes for $269. While you're there, you can also catch a free classical music concert at Millennium Park, and don't miss the world-renowned Field Museum.