Because of C2E2, a bunch of my nonlocal friends stayed at Hyatt McCormick Place. Even though I live just north of Chicago, I joined them, knowing I’d be spending so much time there all weekend.
Since debuting in 2010, Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo has grown into one of Chicago’s biggest conventions, as well as one of the largest comic cons in the country. Organizer ReedPop runs about 30 other events worldwide, including New York Comic Con, also one of my yearly comic con stops.
While C2E2 features a big celebrity guest lineup, panels, contests, vendors and more, I am most interested in Artist Alley. Over the years I have become friends with many creative artists and authors. Since most live out of town, C2E2 is a perfect place to catch up and also to see their new projects.
II Culaccino was our dining highlight. A couple blocks away from McCormick Place, its airy, casual but elegant vibe was a great change of pace from the fun chaos of C2E2. Splitting several dishes, I enjoyed portions of Shrimp Fra Diavolo, the signature Chicken Giardiniera and Chicken Vesuvio. All were light, with multilevel flavors.
While my friends were busy at C2E2, I roamed downtown. Within nearby Grant Park, I took a close look at Agora, a sculpture comprised of 106 nine-foot-tall headless torsos. Deriving its name from the Greek word for meeting place, cast iron sculptures stand in groups.
I happened to find Stan’s Donuts. Since 2014 Stan’s has become a beloved Chicago institution. While I do not usually eat donuts, I had to try one, and lemon pistachio old fashioned did not disappoint. I also bought a pretzel bun for later, but it smelled so good, I ate it on the way back to C2E2.
— John Wroblewski, online writer
Read This Next
Trendy Delano Miami Beach Hotel Reopens This Year
Daily
Feb 13, 2025
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Feb 13, 2025Trendy Delano Miami Beach Hotel Reopens This Year
Ennismore and partner Cain International are expecting to reopen the well-known Delano Miami Beach hotel in 2025 after completing a full renovation.
Sponsored Content
A Word with Nat Pieper, oneworld CEO
Name: Nat Pieper Title: CEO at oneworld City: Dallas, Texas First job: Stadium vendor
Daily
Feb 13, 2025Florida’s Amrit Ocean Resort Launches Wellness Retreat Series
Situated on Florida’s Singer Island, recently opened Amrit Ocean Resort launches a wellness retreat series. Held monthly, this series aims to inspire longevity. The first retreat kicks off Feb. 27.
Daily
Feb 13, 2025Aman to Open Its First Property in Bangkok
More than 35 years after opening its first property, Amanpuri, in Phuket, Aman returns to Thailand with the opening of Aman Nai Lert in Bangkok. Set to debut April 2, the 52-suite property lies within privately owned Nai Lert Park, offering guests a secluded haven in the middle of the bustling city, much like sister property Aman New York.
Sponsored Content
A Summer Sojourn Along Europe’s Rivers with AmaWaterways
This summer, elevate your vacation experience with award-winning AmaWaterways. Offering a seamless blend of unparalleled luxury, authentic cultural experiences and unrivaled service, AmaWaterways cruises are the perfect way to uncover the heart of Europe during the sunniest season with itineraries that glide along the continent’s most iconic rivers, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Douro.
Daily
Feb 12, 2025Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival Returns in March
Celebrating the best of Asian and Asian American filmmaking, Colorado’s Dragon Boat Film Festival is a fun mix of screenings by established and emerging artists. The theme of this year’s event is Honoring Our Past to Guide Our Future, held March 14–16 at Denver Sie Center.
6 Destinations and Hotels for Solo Women Travelers
Daily
Feb 12, 2025New SIRO Hotel to Open in Tokyo in 2029
eFlyer News
Feb 12, 2025eFlyer Deals
Feb 12, 2025Have a Galentine’s to Remember at Holston House Nashville
Available for stays Feb. 13–17, Holston House Nashville’s Galentine’s offer is sure to elevate your girls’ trip to the next level. This offer starts at just $50 above the hotel’s standard room rate and comes with:
Sponsored Content
Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.
eFlyer Deals
Feb 12, 2025Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Deal at The Benjamin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Still looking for a Valentine’s Day offer? The Benjamin Royal Sonesta Hotel, in New York City, has the LOVE Ben promotion available. With this offer, enjoy a stay in the hotel’s signature suite, as well as a private, late-night MoMA tour for two (with transportation included).
ShareThis