Chicago

Why: Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Project comes to Chicago for a citywide cultural celebration. Symphony performances and art exhibits kick off with a September 30 gala, and events run through June. 

How: Flights start at $78 round-trip during sales, or it’s a relaxing eight hours on the Empire Builder, Amtrak’s best.

Stay: The new James Hotel is currently the talk of the town. Contemporary, hip. But there’s a serious fitness center, the location’s super, and NY chef David Burke’s Primehouse is the hotel restaurant. Rates start at $250. 877-526-3755.

Eat: Chicago Magazine just named the experimental Alinea the city’s best restaurant. It’s not for everyone; check its website. 312-867-0110.

Pack: A copy of Along the Silk Road. Asian Art & Culture, Vol. 6, for illustrations and insights by historians and musicians, including Yo-Yo Ma.

P.S.: Hot Doug’s is the greatest hot dog restaurant in America. And the fries are fried in duck fat. 3324 N. California St., 773-279-9550.