Swimming at Hamburger U.

I'm looking into workout options while I'm in Chicago and I was reminded of a business trip a couple of years ago that required me to stay at Hamburger U. (I wasn't working for McDonalds, but my client was located near the campus). Whenever I travel, I toss in my bathing suit, cap, and goggles because they don't really take up any space and you never know if you might have a chance for a swim. Mostly, hotel swimming pools are nothing more than glorified wading pools--not really suitable for fitness swimming.

Imagine my surprise, therefore, when I walked into this swimming facility at The Lodge at Hamburger U.

Hamburger U. Pool

Honestly, the picture doesn't do justice to the size or luxury of this facility. What you also don't see is that it has a glass roof, so that it feels much more like an outdoor pool.

To get to the pool, you walk down a long corridor, where  McDonald's-themed artwork is displayed. Really--they commissioned artists to do serious works, some of which were very well done and not as cheesy as you might expect.

However, no Hamburger U. on this trip. Looks like a Bally's Total Fitness will be the deal -- I can even print out a free two-week pass online. (Of course, I am sure they will be calling me about membership for the next year.)