Chicago IL
We rolled out of the Willowbrook hotel at 0645 and started our 20 mile ride into downtown Chicago for breakfast and to reach the end of Route 66.
Even though we were on city streets, we knew we were on the route because of the brown Historic Route 66 signs along the way.
Just a few miles into the ride we spotted this Muffler Man on the roof of this BBQ/Bar/Cigar lounge holding a chicken wing and a bottle of Tabasco sauce. Too bad it was so early, and we were on a schedule, it looked like a great place to stop!
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| The skyline comes into view |
Route 66 also goes through this narrow street with townhouses on either side. It was a tunnel of green, and the homes were all immaculate, and we wondered how many millions it would take to acquire one!
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| Mike leading the way |
Breakfast was at the world famous Lou Mitchells. It was packed on a Sunday morning, but they lined up a long table for our group. One last ham and cheese omelette for me thank you!
We had one mile of city riding to reach the official east end of Route 66 at Michigan Avenue. Any further and we would be in Lake Michigan!
With Route 66 complete, we still had another 20 miles of riding to get to the Holiday Inn in Niles IL. That is where the van and our bike boxes would meet us. Bryon, a PACTour veteran, and local resident took delivery of our bike boxes that we shipped from Amarillo. In addition to that, he guided our group through a great network of quiet roads and beautiful bike lanes along the North Shore.
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| Relaxing with Conner on the Navy Pier |
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| Rolling along the North Shore |
The story behind this totem pole is interesting. Byron’s grandfather was the chief engineer for Lincoln Park. His grandfather told him the pole was found on the grounds during survey work when the park was designed. Years later, Byron’s great Uncle revealed the real story. It was found in a tool shed, but it was determined to be authentic and was installed!
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| Shaded bike trails near the finish hotel |
We rolled into the hotel about noon and everyone started heading off in all directions. I packed the bike, took a shower and headed to the airport. Byron insisted on taking Greg and I to O’Hare and dropped us off at the terminal. I was able to standby on an earlier flight and am about to board!
It was a great trip and I hope that you enjoyed following along.
Steve
3 comments:
Congratulations Steve!!! Thanks for sharing your ride with the less motivated 🙂. Loved reading along with the ride.
What a great trip!! What's next??? Can't wait to follow!!Welcome home!!! :-)
We most definitely enjoyed “riding along.” Thanks so much for doing all the leg and back work. Now rest at home for several weeks!
Mga & WA
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