Planning a trip to Chicago. Need some suggestions

[soleobjective]

I am planning/saving up to visit Chicago in 2013 and I'm trying to find out what are some things to do that will give me a good experience of the city. Also, I know it gets REALLY cold, but when is the best time to go during the year?

 

[xfile 11]

Summer is best but fall can be nice because the weather can still be good and there are less tourists. If you come in September the Cubs and Sox will still be playing so that could be an option.

What I think makes this city great are the neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own feel and places to eat, shop, hangout.

Of course you want to see some of the touristy things like the Sears Tower or the Hancock Building, Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, etc.

Feel free to pm me if you like. I've lived here for almost 11 years and am familiar with most of the city.