Yes, it's expensive, and we're hit with the $600 "exit" tax, but Chicago is an amazing and beautiful city. The mooring balls in Monroe Harbor would be the least expensive way to go, but it can be rolly in the harbor, there is no dink dock, and the water taxi wants $4.50 per person each way. Another option is tying up to the wall in Monroe, for $1.25/foot (no power or water). This was calmer than the mooring field, but got a bit rough on our third day there, and you're right on the public walking/biking paths--security at your own risk. DuSable Harbor is very well protected with security gate but you pay--over 40 feet (and they count your swim platform and bow pulpit in LOA), it's $2.35/foot plus $20 electric daily ($2.15/ft + $10 for less than 40). From both locations it's an easy walk to downtown. There is a small, expensive market very near DuSable in the basement of a residential highrise (Parkshore, 195 N. Harbor Drive). The nearest big supermarket is Dominick's at 255 E. Grand across the river--also walkable. Get a transit map. Trains are $2.25 a trip (add $$ to or get a transit card at the stations), buses are $2.25, exact fare required. Once you figure it out, it's easy to get around. Pricey entertainment: Take in a show (we saw Jersey Boys--excellent). Take the river architectural tour (various companies), especially if you are not going down the Chicago River when you leave--we heard very good commentary about the buildings--well worth it. Many world-class museums. We chose Museum of Science and Industry, a bus ride south. The Art Institute is near Millenium Park. Others are near Burnham Harbor. And, of course, fine dining. Free or nearly free activities: Walk Millenium Park. Check free concert schedules at Pritzker Pavilion there, plus various gardens, sculptures, fountains, etc. Walk to Navy Pier. There's a free Museum of Stained Glass among other attractions. Bike or walk the Lakefront Trail. Go into Macy's (the old Marshall Field Building) to the 7th floor to an upscale food court and a great view of interior atrium. Walk the Riverwalk (near S. Wacker). Along the way is the McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum ($3 pp) for a look at the bridge works, and info on river history including how it was reversed, sanitation, ecology today, etc. Fireworks Wed. and Saturdays near Navy Pier (viewable from DuSable and Monroe, mayber further). Try Chicago pizza or Chicago-style hot dogs for local, cheaper eats. Quite the change from Georgian Bay and the North Channel, but we really enjoyed our week here. Off to Calumet tomorrow. Roberta & Randy Dakan "R&R" Oceania 40 Trawler