So I’m running the LaSalle Marathon this October, and will have some time for my birth-city.
Recommendations Please:
Also, if you’ve already run the LaSalle, any tips?
I’m arriving at ORD/O’Hare via Atlanta/Hartsfield, so any tips on ORD weirdness?
Thanks in advance.
What is your projected pace?
The start is a several blocks long sea of humanity, with many many people starting further up than they should. I was aiming at 4 hrs - and finished at right about that. But my first couple of miles were shuffling along in the 12:00 or so range - absolutely elbow to asshole. Then the last 20 miles was spent looking for gaps and trying to pass people up without breaking stride. So if you are realistic about your projected pace, I’d recommend starting at least 15-30 seconds further up.
At the water stops, run past the beginnings of the tables where there are huge lines/delays.
The easiest places to piss discretely (avoiding lines at portapotties) are in Lincoln Park along miles 5-7, and heading west along Adams around mile 14.
Just wear a garbage bag to the start line to keep warm and throw it away.
Smile for the cameras!
No real wierdness coming into ORD when I was thru there last week or so. Flying out, security is a freaking zoo, but it didn’t take too terribly long. Are you staying downtown? If so, I recommend taking the el into the city. From the baggage claim just follow the signs for “Trains to city.”
have fun, and let us know how it goes!
Ok, let’s see.
Deep Dish Pizza - I’d say Gino’s East but it’s a close call with Lou Malnati’s. I don’t like Uno or Due much anymore - Uno’s (and by extension Due) has changed. IF you want a real treat, go to the Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder Co. in Lincoln Park - it’s unique.
Chicago Style Hot Dog - Fluky’s. Or Jim’s Hot Dog Stand on Union (relocated from Halsted) or even Portillo’s. Some say Hot Doug’s shouldn’t be missed - I’ve never tried it. But they have french fries fried in duck fat.
Italian Beef (you didn’t ask, but how COULD you leave out Italian Beef??) - Mr. Beef on Orleans.
Sushi - I don’t know because I have never eaten (nor do I intend to eat) sushi. 
Neko Case - can’t help you.
Tips on the marathon - the last strenuous excercise I got was getting the mail. Can’t help you here either. WHAT? The mailbox was at the end of the block and it was drizzling - I had to walk FAST!
O’Hare - can’t help you here either. I don’t get out much - except for that mail thing I mentioned above. 