Chicago is a great city with a history of sophistication, architecture and business. It’s known for entertainment as well, and Halloween is an entertainment-filled holiday for the Windy City. Whether you want to tour a haunted house, ride a ghostly roller coaster or hear classic haunted tales by Edgar Allen himself, Chicago has got a way for everyone to celebrate the occasion. If you are ready to have a spooky time in Chicago, here are some places to visit.

Red Lion Pub

Visit this renown haunted pub on Halloween to get your scare-on. Built in 1882, the Red Lion location has a history of being a brothel, as well as an old west style saloon. Sightings of a ghostly figure now referred to as “Sharon” has been blamed for the inexplicable second floor bathroom locks malfunctioning, locking in frightened patrons, as well as mysterious swinging lamps and moving artwork. Check it out at 2446 N Lincoln Ave.

Weird Chicago Tour

Available usually only on Halloween weekend, the Weird Chicago tour will take you through this cities mobster and ghostly past. Visit the spirits of the Congress Hotel (the most haunted hotel in Chicago), see where John Dillinger was shot and check out a haunted tattoo parlor. Full of spooky tales that will bring shivers up your spine tickets are $30.00 as of 2009. Tours are picked up at the Hard Rock Cafe on Clark and Ontario streets.

Edgar Allen Poe Readings

Presented by the actors of the Lifeline Theater, Poe’s spookiest writings such as “The Raven” will be dramatically brought to life on Saturday, October 31, 2009. Tickets for it’s 23rd annual production sell for $25.00 and take place at the Glessner House on 1800 S Prairie Ave.

Shadows on the Street Haunted Tours of Prairie Avenue

Presented by the Glessner House on Friday, October 30th and Saturday, October 31st, tours include stories from the Glessner House as well as a stroll to the homes of Marshall Field and George Pullman. Costumed docents will lead you into the mysterious 1800’s and fill your head with history and haunting. Head to 1800 S. Prairie Ave.

Windy City Sweets

Halloween is nothing if there is no candy involved, and Windy City Sweets has been treating the people of Chicago for over 20 years. Handmade fudge, candies and ice cream will tempt you to hold your hands out and yell “Trick or Treat.” Find it at 3308 N. Broadway Street.

Fright Fest at Six Flags Great America

Weekends in October bring out the ghouls and ghosts at one of the most fun theme parks in the area. Haunted houses, street entertainers and a special trick or treat day for the kids, Six Flags creates a spooky environment for kids of all ages to have a blast. General admission is $54.99 in 2009, but online specials can be found. Parking is extra so load up the car and get going.

The United States has hundreds of National Parks, founded to preserve some of the country’s most beautiful and pristine spots while allowing any visitor to enjoy their natural beauty.

Of the hundreds of National Parks, more than 100 allow camping. Camping in National Parks is a great way to see America, have a few adventures and save money in the process.

History

The first publicly protected park, transferred to California State ownership in 1864, was the Yosemite Valley. The first National Park was Yellowstone, established in 1872. The National Park Service was created in 1916 to manage and protect the growing number of National Parks throughout the nation.

Access and Amenities

Campsite amenities vary: some have hot showers, campfire rings and laundry facilities, while others may not even offer water. “Developed” campsites can generally be reached by car and offer more amenities, including RV hookups. “Primitive” campsites are usually private and scenic but often can be reached only on foot.

Cost and Reservations

Most National Park campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis (so arrive early on holiday weekends). A few campgrounds accept reservations. Campsites usually cost $10-$20 a night.

Wildlife and Fire Dangers

When you enter the park or the campground, you’re likely to see signs or meet a Ranger who will warn you about any park dangers. These vary from park to park: in Yosemite, you may be told to store your food in “bear boxes”; in Indiana, you might hear about a firewood quarantine for pest control. Fire danger varies by area as well. Follow all instructions to the letter; National Parks are the property of all U.S. citizens, and it’s every visitor’s responsibility to keep them beautiful and safe.

Time Limit

Enjoy your stay, but don’t linger: the maximum stay in a National Park is 14 days.

Hotel Regno in Rome is a 6-story romantic get-away located near the Fontana Di Trevi where many lovers have tossed in a coin or two in hopes of making their love last forever. The hotel offers cozy, comfortable accommodations in the heart of Piazza Di Spagna, an exclusive shopping district in the historic city. Hotel Regno was a government library in the 16th century and has been serving as a hotel since 1933. The hotel is close to public transportation. The official website for the hotel runs summer specials as well as Internet specials for those who make their reservations online.

Insider Tips

Rome’s public transportation allows quick access to the city and all its temptations. Italian cuisine, gold jewelry and romantic, historical landmarks are just some of what awaits you. Visit the Spanish Steps and the famous shopping area Via Del Corso. The hotel offers a cozy terrace lounge decorated with original antique furniture and evokes an elegant upscale feel. Breakfast is served in the breakfast room or on the terrace daily from 7:30-10 a.m. Breakfast is a traditional Italian buffet of fresh baked breads, croissants, jams and honey, fresh fruit, local cheeses, coffee, cappuccino and juices.

Pros and Cons

Hotel Regno is close to many of Rome’s most visited attractions such as the Coliseum, Vatican City and the Forum. The rooms are small and offer cable and satellite TV, mini bar and safe. The hotel offers concierge service, room service, babysitting services and currency exchange. High speed Internet packages are available at an additional charge. The rooftop terrace overlooks the city where you can relax and eat breakfast or just enjoy the sun. Although the hotel does not serve lunch or dinner, you won’t have trouble locating a place nearby to dine. Visitors to the city have their choice of restaurants. If Italian is not your first choice, many other choices are available.

Bottom Line

Hotel Regno is a moderately priced hotel yet offers sophisticated and charming accommodations. The rooms and lobby have an upscale elegance. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine. The hotel’s unmatched service and friendly 24-hour staff is what separates it from the others. Hotel Regno is just minutes away from famous landmarks, which makes it an ideal location for travelers who want to explore Rome and Italy’s ancient ruins. Visit the hotel’s website for Internet deals. The site also has a calendar of events for the city to help travelers decide when to visit Rome.