A CHICAGO STAYCATION

Debbie Booker, StreetWise Vendor

Debbie Booker, 49, was born in Mississippi, but grew up in Chicago and has lived here for the last 40 years. She has been selling StreetWise for seven years and loves it - she says there are so many dogs that love her and go straight to her backpack for treats when passing her selling spot.

Tips for first-time visitors

Come buy a magazine from me! I sell at Whole Foods on Halsted and Waveland. StreetWise always has a list of events, saying everything that’s going on in the city. There’s always something happening - parades, festivals, concerts, all that stuff. And it’s all so much fun!

Favorite places to go

Lincoln Park Zoo

courtesy photo

I love Navy Pier and the rides there, the beach and riding my bike along the lake, and looking out at the water. Plus, I love going to Lincoln Park Zoo to see all the animals. There are also lots of great farmers' markets where I love to get good fruit and vegetables. Just make sure to go in the spring or the summertime, those are the best times to come to Chicago! Plus, I love the Cubs, everyone should come see the Cubs!

Wrigley Field

Good places to eat

I recommend the Hing Wang Restaurant (1120 W. Wilson Ave.), which is a Chinese place right around the corner from the current StreetWise office. I love their fried rice. Also, Uptown Pizza & Barbeque is good, and close to the current StreetWise office as well.

Fun things to do

There are so many things to enjoy in Chicago. I like the singing festivals, indoor and outdoor. I’m not a coffee drinker, but I like to get hot chocolate from Starbucks. I also like to go see the Chicago White Sox. Fishing, boat riding, jogging, going out to eat, going dancing, going roller skating - there’s so much to do here in Chicago!