I immediately felt drawn to Kerry's home by the picture she posted. My daughter and I really liked the vintage pieces and the warm atmosphere. Kerry was tremendously helpful, providing us with advice on where to go in Chicago, based on our interests, what was going on in her neighborhood, and whether to travel by train or car.
Kerry's apartment is located in a quiet, safe, residential neighborhood. Lincoln Square is about a half mile away. You won't find glitzy stores there, but an old-time apothecary, a German delicatessen, a book store, a toy store specializing in traditional toys, and several nice restaurants. We went to breakfast every morning at the Selmarie, which has great omelettes, egg-and-bacon sandwiches on fresh croissants, pancakes, and a great variety of excellent cookies and cakes. People of all ages showed up for a free concert by a rock group that somehow managed to please lots of different tastes. There is an outdoor concert every Thursday night.
There is a train station at Lincoln Square. It's on the right line for the "Loop," the heart of Chicago's downtown. Also on that train line is Belmont, a very tolerant, inclusive neighborhood with interesting restaurants, shops, and comedy clubs.
Couldn't have been happier with our stay at Kerry's!