Broughton Quarterly - Spring 2009 - (Page 31) in 1967. In its place is an empty lot belonging to a neighboring nursing home. Our guides had saved the best for last. And though the tour was over, I hardly left empty handed. I departed the big, black bus with a crash course in gangster history, learned a few things I didn’t know about Chicago’s unsavory side, and saw some neighborhoods and buildings I might not have seen otherwise. I even had a keepsake to take home: a comb cleverly disguised as a switchblade, a kitschy companion to the unique tour. My thoughts suddenly shifted from gangster mode to contemplating how I would get this little gadget through airport security. Bottom line: If you are a fan of The Sopranos, GoodFellas, or The Godfather, The Untouchables Tour will only enhance your visit to Chicago. It’s at once silly and informative, with some theatrics thrown in for good measure. Of course, if you’re a serious historian looking to uncover details of Capone’s days in the Windy City—forgetaboutit! This tour is a light-hearted, laughout-loud look at some of America’s most vile citizens. Q How is that for irony? JUST THE FACTS The Untouchables Tour lasts approximately two hours and departs from the 600 block of N. Clark Street in front of the Rock N Roll McDonald’s at the corner of Ohio Avenue. Tour times and prices are subject to change. For more information, call 773.881.1195 or visit GangsterTour.com. Where to Stay Experience past and present with a stay at Broughton’s City Inns of Chicago, three historic 1920s-era boutique hotels located in the exclusive Lakeview section of the city. Willows Hotel A graceful hotel with a European flare and upscale amenities. 555 West Surf, Chicago, 773.528.8400, CityInns.com/Willows. Majestic Hotel The tranquility of an English country estate amidst the bustling Chicago city life. 528 West Brompton, Chicago, 773.404.3499, CityInns. com/Majestic. City Suites Hotel A sleek, retro property characterized by its unique Art Deco style. 933 West Belmont, Chicago, 773.404.3400, CityInns.com/CitySuites. broughtonQuarterly.com 31 http://www.GangsterTour.com http://www.CityInns.com/Willows http://www.CityInns.com/Majestic http://www.CityInns.com/Majestic http://www.CityInns.com/CitySuites http://www.BroughtonQuarterly.com
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