Christmas Tree Ship

Posted on

Coast Guard crew carrying Christmas Tree Ship load is crossing Lake Michigan

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw

Members of the Cheboygan community and a local high school helped the Mackinaw crew load trees for its annual Christmas Tree Ship run to Chicago. Photo provided by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw is motoring down Lake Michigan today and nearing Chicago, where its load of more than 1,200 Christmas trees will be used to recreate the holiday spirit of Michigan’s ill-fated Christmas Tree Ship, which sank in late November 1912.

The rugged, 240-foot icebreaker left Cheboygan, Michigan on Saturday after volunteers from the nearby Wolverine High School and the community helped the Mackinaw’s crew load the hundreds of net-wrapped trees onto the cutter’s fantail. For the commemorative trip, the Mackinaw is also flying a custom-made tree pennant, the Coast Guard said.

The journey has been a sentimental favorite for the cutter’s crew and groups in Northern Michigan and Chicago for years.

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw, loaded with 1,200 Christmas Trees, traveled under the Mackinac Bridge on its way to Chicago. Photo provided by the U.S. Coast Guard.

 

“The Mackinaw does this to honor the Rouse Simmons, a three-masted schooner which tragically sank in 1912 while sailing to Chicago to deliver Christmas trees. We are honored to carry on this Christmas tradition and spread holiday cheer!” the crew said in a recent social media post.

Click here to see a Coast Guard video of the crew and their helpers loading the Mackinaw.

Earlier this weekend, spectators gathered in Northern Michigan as the ship left its pier, bound for Chicago. “1,200 Christmas trees secured to the fantail, a custom tree wind pennant compliments of the CO (well done, Captain!), and Santa and his elf dancing on the flybridge…. Its official- U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw WLBB 30 is underway for their annual Christmas tree run!,” the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes group said Saturday in a social media post. “The crew is in high spirits as spectators waved and cheered the ship off the pier. Stay tuned to see what Mackinaw and her crew are up to as they transit to #Chicago to complete this unique mission!”

The holiday trees are funded by donations to Chicago’s Christmas Ship committee. They’ll be delivered to that city’s Navy Pier, where the trees will be distributed to Chicagoans for their holiday celebrations. The Mackinaw crew is also getting some of its late fall work done during the journey, with some buoy-tending along the way.

"Captain Santa"

“Captain Santa” and two crewmen on the deck of the Rouse Simmons

As it has for decades, the Coast Guard is recreating the Christmastime journey of the Rouse Simmons, which sank on Nov. 23, 1912 in a fierce gale off the coast of Two Rivers, Wisconsin.

Built in 1868 in Wisconsin, the Rouse Simmons was one of many Great Lakes maritime workhorses, ferrying lumber and other cargo from port to port.

By 1910, Capt. Herman Schuenemann owned a small interest in her. For years, his family had been among the two dozen schooner crews doing late-season Christmas tree runs, bringing evergreens from northern Michigan and Wisconsin to Chicago’s docks. The ships would be decorated with lights, and the families could come aboard and pick out an inexpensive tree. By cutting out the retail middleman, captains could get a decent profit from a holiday run.

Known for his generosity,  Schuenemann earned the nickname “Captain  Santa.” On its last run in 1912, the Rouse Simmons was crammed with more than 5,000 trees, enough to make some say the ship looked like a floating forest when it set off from Thompson, Michigan, near the Upper Peninsula’s Manistique, on Friday, Nov. 22, 1912. By the next afternoon, the ship was gone.

The entire crew was lost, believed to be around 14 men. There were also accounts that lumberjacks working in Northern Michigan had hitched a ride, trying to get home to Chicago for Christmas. That would push the death toll to possibly 23.

The Christmas tree cargo has become a tradition for the Coast Guard. In the last 20 years, the cutter Mackinaw and its predecessor of the same name have delivered more than 25,000 Christmas trees to Chicago families.

Rouse Simmons shipwreck

Bow of the Rouse Simmons with a Christmas tree placed on her deck

https://www.mlive.com/news/2022/11/coast-guard-crew-carrying-christmas-tree-ship-load-is-crossing-lake-michigan.html

Skate inside Wrigley Field this holiday season

Posted on

Written by 

Jeffy Mai

The holiday season is right around the corner and this year, Chicagoans have the rare opportunity to step onto Wrigley Field.

Winterland at Gallagher Way, the annual festive experience that takes place outside the home of the Cubs, is expanding into the ballpark for the first time this year. Starting Friday, November 18 and running through Sunday, January 8, 2023, visitors will be able to celebrate the season with a host of programs and activities. Popular winter attraction Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville returns as one of the headliners and will offer hand-crafted ornaments and unique holiday merchandise plus a taste of traditional German fare and hot spiced wine.

A large Christmas tree and crowds at Winterland at Gallagher Way

While Winterland’s ice skating has customarily happened next to the stadium, the festivities are moving onto the field in 2022. Attendees will be able to make their way through a special gate filled with holiday decor before arriving at an expanded 12,000-square-foot ice rink. The whimsical wonderland will also feature a carousel, carnival rides and games, an ice slide and an Infield Express train. And if you need to warm up, there’s a new ski lodge-themed dining option—aptly named The Lodge—that will provide creative beverage offerings as well as fire pits.

Those who want to commemorate the occasion can take professional family photos with Santa in his workshop, located in the lobby near the Wrigley Field Marquee. It will be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from November 25 to December 18. Large groups can rent private on-field chalets, which are designed to accommodate up to 20 guests. They include a hot chocolate bar, snacks, attraction tickets and upgradeable food and drink packages. Reservations are available here.

Admission to Winterland at Gallagher Way is free, but tickets are required for access to the Wrigley Field activities. Tickets start at $5 and can be purchased online. Parking is available in the Toyota Camry Lot at 1126 W Grace St for $10 Monday through Thursday, and $15 Friday through Sunday. Winterland’s hours of operation are from 3-9pm Monday through Thursday, 11am-10pm on Saturday and 11am-7pm on Sunday. Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve hours will be 11am-4pm, while the hours on December 26-29 will be 11am-7pm. The event is closed on Christmas Day. For a full list of activities and events, visit Gallagher Way’s website.

 

13 Chicago Airbnbs Worth Bookmarking, From Frank Lloyd Wright-Built Homes to Modern Lofts

Posted on

13 Chicago Airbnbs Worth Bookmarking, From Frank Lloyd Wright-Built Homes to Modern Lofts

For solo trips, family vacations, and more.

BY CLAIRE VOLKMAN

courtesy of Conde Nast Traveler
If you’re interested in exploring the breadth and depth of Chicago’s renowned architecture, there’s a good chance you can start in your Airbnb. For a city that’s known the world over for its eclectic architectural collection of modernist meets gothic meets neoclassical, many examples of the Windy City’s historic cityscape lie outside the downtown corridor. From industrial lofts with soaring ceilings in the West Loop to a restored prairie-style home built by Frank Lloyd Wright to bright and airy condos in Oak Park, the Airbnbs below offer a taste of what makes this city so spectacular. Use them as your home base for some of the city’s best activities: an architecture boat tour along the Chicago river, meals and nights out enjoying its bustling food and bar scene, museums and walking tours through its inspired art scene, plus a trip to one of the must-visit beaches along Lake Michigan.

While we have not stayed in every Airbnb featured, unless otherwise stated, these listings are vetted based on Superhost status, amenities, location, previous guest reviews, and decor.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Courtesy Airbnb

Modernist loft in Pilsen

Those with a taste for modern decor will feel right at home in this bright Pilsen loft. Enjoy your coffee in the yellow-walled sunroom, read a book in the cozy loft, or pen your debut novel in the sun-drenched office nook. The main bedroom is right off the large renovated kitchen, featuring a retro pink bathroom complete with a rain head shower. The location in Pilsen, a lower west side neighborhood that is rich in Latino heritage, offers a slightly more residential home base but still allows easy access to the city’s mainstays. Known as the Chicago Arts District, the area is home to the National Museum of Mexican Art and many buildings covered in murals and mosaics; make time to indulge in the Mexican cuisine, too.

$209 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Restored factory in Wicker Park

This restored one-bedroom loft is in an old tea factory in hip Wicker Park. Thanks to the owner’s exquisite eye for detail and appreciation of Japanese culture, you’ll find nods to Japan throughout—from the soaking tub in the primary bath to the bamboo wall behind the bed. Industrial light fixtures, exposed brick and pipes, and a window-panel wall pay homage to the building’s history. If you can pry yourself away from the professional grade kitchen, head outside and explore the neighborhood’s hips restaurants and bars, including local faves Etta and The Delta.

$372 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Spacious home in Wicker Park

A perfect blend of vintage meets modern luxury, this opulent five-bedroom mansion in Wicker Park has everything you need to feel at home. Unwind in the entertainment room with a 75-inch TV and popcorn machine, enjoy a cocktail al fresco on the patio, or play chess next to the gold fireplace. If you can peel yourself away from the endless amenities, head out and enjoy everything Wicker Park has to offer, from the 606 walking path to the top-notch restaurants and nightlife.

$734 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Hip guest house in Humboldt Park

With a very unassuming entrance, you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you enter this airy studio in Humboldt Park. What it lacks in size it makes up for in design, with beautiful artwork, plenty of plants, and a renovated bathroom complete with a claw-foot soaking tub. The kitchenette features just the basics (a mini fridge, hot plate, tea kettle), so it’s best to take advantage of Humboldt Park and neighboring Wicker Park’s diverse food scene. Spend your days viewing local artists’ murals or paddling through the picturesque lagoon at the Humboldt Park boathouse.

$141 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Sprawling penthouse in Old Town

If you want to explore one of Chicago’s trendiest neighborhoods in style, check out this 4,000-square-foot penthouse in Old Town. Just a few minutes from downtown, Old Town boasts incredible views of the cityscape, amazing restaurants, and the famous Second City comedy club. This apartment’s highlights include exposed brick walls and 120-year-old barn doors leading to a private rooftop deck overlooking the city. This is one of the best options for a big family or group of friends—inside, you’ll find four bedrooms, four full baths (including a hot tub with the primary room), two kitchens, and two laundry rooms.

$1,207 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Restored Frank Lloyd Wright home in Rogers Park

Meticulously restored, the Emic Bach home—designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright—is a steal at just over $500 a night (though prices may vary throughout the year). Located in Rogers Park, this home is next to Loyola University, steps from Lake Michigan, and walking distance to plenty of up-and-coming restaurants. The home itself is a work of art, with a beautiful built-in desk, a large living room, and outdoor patios off of each bedroom. The pièce de résistance is the second floor balcony, complete with a Japanese tea house, immaculately kept gardens, and ample outdoor seating. Built in 1915 for one of Wright’s admirers, this house is a must-visit for art and design lovers.

$507 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Chic corner loft in Fulton Market

Located in one of the city’s best food neighborhoods, you’ll have no trouble finding great places to eat when you’re staying in this 1920’s corner three-bedroom loft in Fulton Market. With 15-foot ceilings, the large windows offer incredible views of the neighborhood, and the rest of the 2,500-square-foot loft features restored concrete floors and exposed brick and timber. You’d be remiss not to try some of the neighborhood’s best restaurants, including Girl & the Goat, Roister, and Aba, or to explore the area’s local shops and galleries. Additionally, you’re just a quick Uber ride away from Magnificent Mile, the riverwalk, and Millennium Park.

$625 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Private penthouse in Ukranian Village

You’d be hard pressed to find a better view of the city than this private penthouse in Ukrainian Village. Featuring a large patio on the roof and a smaller patio off the living room, there are plenty of ways to take in the skyline here. Inside the Chicago Airbnb there are rich leather furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows sunning the space in natural light, a large kitchen, and two bedrooms and baths. This westside neighborhood is home to over 50,000 Ukrainian families—the second largest population in the country—so be sure to check out the area’s many tributes to their homeland, including the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, the Delta gift shop, and the TryZub Ukrainian Kitchen.

$211 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Mid-century townhouse in Wrigleyville

Just steps from Wrigley Field, this three-bedroom home is the ultimate pad for baseball fans. Decorated with chic mid-century modern furniture, you’ll feel right at home on the cozy tufted couches and in the sleek, updated kitchen. The primary bathroom features heated floors, a soaking tub, and a steam shower, and the small outdoor patio is perfect for sipping cocktails or noshing on hors d’oeuvres. The nearby LGBTQ-friendly Boystown has non-stop nightlife (including discos!), as well as plenty of cafes and bistros.

$707 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Trendy condo in Uptown

Situated on a quiet, tree-lined street, this one-bedroom condo in Uptown offers a tranquil oasis from the downtown noise. The big windows in the Chicago Airbnb let in loads of natural light, illuminating the spacious living room, large dining room, and master bedroom. Conveniently located just six minutes from the Wilson red line, you can quickly zip downtown or to other nearby neighborhoods, including Andersonville, Edgewater, and Ravenswood. The highlight of the area is Montrose Beach, which is steps away from the Airbnb and features a waterfront restaurant, dog beach, bird sanctuary, and miles of walking trails along the water. You’ll also find jazz clubs and vintage theaters, thanks to the area’s history as a booming nightlife destination during the prohibition era.

$101 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Handcrafted gallery in River West

There’s a reason this River West apartment is called “the gallery.” This three-bedroom condo is part of Open House Contemporary, a collection of homes that feature a curated selection of artwork from America’s emerging artists. Situated in the up-and-coming River West neighborhood, you won’t find better views of the city anywhere. Soak in the cityscape from the living room’s floor-to-ceiling windows and enjoy the amazing artwork that’s peppered throughout (including the lamps and hand-painted murals). Nearby, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes, plus direct access to the “hipster highway” (Milwaukee Ave) and the 606 walking path.

$315 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Airy condo in Forest Park

If you need a break from the city, stay in this three-bedroom respite in Forest Park. The second-floor condo has a screened-in back porch, a spacious living room, and a large renovated kitchen. Adjacent, tree-lined neighborhood Oak Park is home to adorable shops, eateries, and Frank Lloyd Wright–designed homes. Plus, the L is within walking distance, so you can shuffle downtown in less than 30 minutes.

$211 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)

Courtesy Airbnb

Modern sanctuary in Logan Square

With each room seamlessly transitioning to the next, this one-bedroom condo in Logan Square feels bigger than it really is. Every element is thoughtfully designed and minimalist, from the tucked-away loft bed and built-in desk to the cubby bookcases and the renovated subway tile-lined shower. The highlight is the location, which sits right in Logan Square. Here you’ll find award-winning restaurants (like Giant and Parsons Chicken & Fish), historic landmarks (like the 1915-built Logan Theatre), and dozens of boutiques, vintage music stores, and antique shops.

$148 AT AIRBNB (STARTING PRICE)