I travel monthly to both Atlanta and Chicago from Boston. Usually while I am away I like to do stuff other than sit in the hotel. I like to antique and have hit a bunch of different places in Atlanta. I also love to eat out and have tried many BBQ places and steak houses. Before I moved to a quality manager carear I was in the restaurant industry for 7 years. If anyone has suggestions on places to go please let me know. I have also found that the Hyatt and Windham hotels are very decent.

I've never been to Chicago, but Atlanta has quite a bit to offer. If you like all-day adventures, the zoo is a good option. There are also several concert venues in the area. Chastain Park and Amphitheatre is a good one. It is a relaxed atmosphere and they allow visitors to bring food/drinks into the amphitheatre, and they even have tables for you to set up in your seating area!

I'm not sure what else you might like, but there are also historical landmarks in the area, if you're a history buff. There is also a good farmer's market just outside Atlanta, on the north side of town, but I can't remember the name. Sorry!

Of course, there's also Underground Atlanta, Universal Studios, Six Flags, and other obvious touristy attractions, if that is more your style....As I said, lots to choose from...:agree1:

The Coca-Cola Museum..........wahoo!

Stone Mountain outside Atlanta

Chicago- Navy Pier
Atlanta- Coke Museum, Randy is correct, make sure you take samples
CNN
World Congress Center

Atlanta: Visit the aquarium. One of the biggest Salt Water aquariums in the USA. Long Beach, CA has one of the other ones.

Chicago museums - Field, Science & Industry (way cool), Nature, Children's @ Navy Pier and don't forget Shedd Aquarium & Lincoln Park Zoo. These are all located rather close together on the waterfront.

Here's a link that may be helpful: http://www.chicagotraveler.com/maps/chicago-attractions-map.htm

fletch - There are soooooo many things to do and see in Chicago - I wouldn't know where to start. The major, major highlights have already been mentioned. And there is the Sears Tower - you can see 4 states on a clear day, and there is the Art Institue of Chicago with some wonderful exhibits.

And a shameless plug - opening this wekend for a 10 day run at the Merle Ruskin Theater (formerly the Blackstone and now owned by DePaul Unniversity's Theater Department) is A Streetcar Named Desire. (My son is in this production).

But if you are a steak lover, find a place that serves midwest corn fed beef - nothing like it in the world!!!

I don't know if it is still there, but Second City, the comedy club, was where many (all?) of the Saturday Night Live honed their craft in Chicago. On a good night your sides will hurt before you leave.