In just a few short weeks, the Hyatt Regency in Chicago will become center stage for the sold-out Hospital Medicine 2009. Over 2,000 hospitalists from across the U.S. will be in attendance, making it SHM’s largest meeting ever!

Because the meeting is in the heart of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, it’s a prime location to explore some of the city’s finest restaurants and attractions. To help attendees choose where to spend their free time, we’ve enlisted the help of area hospitalists to provide a list of their favorites.

If you’re looking for some authentic deep dish pizza, Nilam Soni, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Chicago, recommends one of the many Gino’s East or Giordanno’s locations throughout the city. “Be sure to go early or late on weekends to avoid the long lines,” says Soni.

Another favorite of Dr. Soni’s is The Signature Room on the 95th Floor of the Hancock Tower. “It’s good food at a moderate price, but most importantly, it offers the best view of the city.”

If you’re a fan of Tiramisu, check out Topo Gigio Italian Restaurant. “They have arguably the best Tiramisu in the city,” says Rachel George, MD, MBA, CPE, FHM, Regional Medical Director for Cogent Healthcare. If you want to make a night of it, after dining at Topo Gigio, head down the street to Zanies Comedy Night Club to check out one of their hilarious stand-up comedy shows.

For some fine dining, Brian Lucas, MD, MS, FHM, Chief of the Division of Hospital Medicine at Cook County Hospital, recommends the Italian cuisine of Proseco on North Wells Street, or the French fare of Les Nomades on East Ontario Street.

Want to walk off all that food? Dr. Lucas recommends taking a beach-front stroll on Oak Street Beach heading North or South.

Looking to see some sites? Dr. Soni recommends the Chicago Architectural Tour, where you’ll enjoy a riverfront boat ride while learning about Chicago’s historical architecture. A deep sea adventure more your style? Check out the Shedd Aquarium. “Don’t miss the Wild Reef and Amazon Rising exhibits,” says Soni.

On a budget? Head to the Lincoln Park Zoo on North Clark Street, which boasts free admission! “It’s the best place to take the kids,” says Lucas. Looking for some more activities for the kids? Check out the Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier. Their interactive exhibits will surely be a hit with kids ages 10 and under. While you’re at the pier, take a ride on the world-famous, 150 foot-high Ferris wheel. “When you’re in Chicago, you have to ride the Ferris wheel, because it offers amazing views of the entire city,” says George.

No matter how you choose to spend your free time at HM09, it’s certain to be the biggest and best hospital medicine meeting in history! See you there!