Live like a local during Optometry’s Meeting®
Excerpted from page 40 of the May/June 2022 edition of AOA Focus.
With all that Optometry’s Meeting has to offer, there’s no need to leave the convention center. But this year’s meeting is in Chicago—the third largest city in the U.S. There is no shortage of things to see, eat and experience, so AOA Focus tuned to AOA members in the area for recommendations to make the most of your visit. This is the optometry locals’ guide to Chicago.
“One of the country’s best museums in a lovely setting. Perfect afternoon out. A must for art lovers, and their collections are outstanding—can’t say enough about it.”
—Lori L. Grover, O.D., Ph.D.
Architectural Boat Tour
architecturetourchicago.com
navypier.org/cruises-and-tours/architecture-and-sightseeing-cruises
“Want to see the beauty of Chicago’s buildings and rich architectural history? This is a fun and fast, 90-minute tour of some of the city’s architectural gems in an open-air boat.”
—Lori L. Grover, O.D., Ph.D.
“The absolute best way to explore the Loop in Downtown Chicago while learning about the iconic architecture Chicago has to offer.”
—Jiani Lin
“One of the largest natural history museums in the world. For dinosaur lovers, check out Sue, the largest and most complete T.rex ever discovered.”
—Jiani Lin
The Signature Lounge at the 96th
(Former John Hancock Center)
“Enjoy a panoramic view of Chicago while sipping on a signature cocktail on the 96th floor.”
—Jiani Lin
520 W. Taylor St.
(South Loop location)
“Iconic Chicago-style hot dogs with mustard, sweet pickle relish, tomatoes, onions, pickles, sport peppers, and please don’t ask for ketchup!”
—Jiani Lin
Deep-dish pizza
“Savoring a delicious Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is a must, especially at these local favorites:
Giordano’s, Gino’s East or Lou Malnati’s.”
—Chelsey Moore, O.D.
“Rent a Divvy bike for a few hours and bike along the beautiful Lake Shore Drive to soak up the sun and enjoy the lake view.”
—Jiani Lin
“Worth an entire weekend pass. One of my favorite places for whales, otters and joy! I try to go each time I visit with family.”
—Lori L. Grover, O.D., Ph.D.
The family-friendly Adler calls itself America’s first planetarium and more than a museum. It’s a lab, classroom and community exploring the universe.
“Favorite place for us.”
—Pamela Peters, CPOA, CPOC
“When in Chicago, one must enjoy the blues. Our favorite place to catch dinner and with performers from around the region—and country—giving us some kicking entertainment in an intimate setting. You might even be lucky enough to see Buddy live on stage when he drops by.”
—Lori Grover, O.D., Ph.D.
“This is one of my favorite places to surprise friends with, as it’s a bit of a secret gem. Located within the historic Garland office building, Heaven on Seven features always delicious, New Orleans- and Cajun-inspired food and drink. Come for the po’boys and gumbo, stay for the bread pudding.”
—Lori L. Grover, O.D., Ph.D.
“Do not miss the dim sum in a fantastic neighborhood, full of food and shops. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.”
—Lori L. Grover, O.D., Ph.D.
Chicago’s State Street shopping
Anchored by Macy’s on State Street, an ornate building and National Historic Landmark, State Street is famous for the nearly mile-long stretch of trendy shops, retailers and boutiques.
“Be sure to check the time on the famous clock outside Macy’s and enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the architecture.”
—Lori L. Grover, O.D., Ph.D.
“I always choose the more casual raw bar side of this classic Chicago venue, serving fresh oysters, great seafood and drinks. They often feature live jazz and other music, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours of down time!”
—Lori L. Grover, O.D., Ph.D.
Broadway in Chicago
TodayTix.com
BroadwayInChicago.com
“While in town for Optometry’s Meeting, theater lovers can find tickets for the many Broadway shows available at Chicago’s theaters.”
—Janice McMahon, O.D.
International Museum of Surgical Science
“Check out the exhibit ‘Windows to the World: The Science of Sight and the Ophthalmic Art.’”
—Janice McMahon, O.D.
“This 10-week classical music concert in Grant Park includes Mozart’s Symphony No. 35 on Wednesday, June 15, and Mendelssohn’s Reformation Symphony June 17-18.”
—Janice McMahon, O.D.
The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
“This landmark Chicago restaurant is in an actual firehouse—the former Engine Company 104 of the Chicago Fire Department.”
—Janice McMahon, O.D.
“Gourmet burgers, craft beers and handmade shakes in a fun, South Loop location.”
—Janice McMahon, O.D.
“Fountains, green space andCloud Gate, known affectionately as ‘The Bean.’ See your reflection and take a fun selfie with ‘The Bean’!”
—Timothy Cundiff, O.D.
“An icon from the mobster era that is well-known for its jazz and poetry.”
—Geoffrey Goodfellow, O.D.
Atop the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Cindy’s Rooftop is surrounded by an open-air terrace, giving a panoramic view of Lake Michigan, Millennium Park and beyond.
“Seasonally rotating, family-style comfort food, bio-dynamic wines and award-winning cocktails.”
—Pamela Peters, CPOA, CPOC
Distinguishing service
The AOA’s 2022 Distinguished Service Award winner details her extensive service to the Indian Health Service and underserved communities.
Successes in diabetes care
This World Diabetes Day, the focus is on access to education. Living with diabetes himself, one AOA member is passionate about caring for and educating patients with diabetes.
A humanitarian heart
The AOA’s 2022 Paraoptometric Community Service Award winner has a heart for helping others.