PHOTOS: When Obama comes to Chicago

His timing could have been better. That is, closing off major streets during rush hour does wonders for everyone’s commute. But you have to admit, it’s kind of cool when President Barack Obama’s helicopter lands along Lake Shore Drive.

Marine One helicopter with Obama aboard, arrives and lands near an Osprey helicopter seen in the foreground at the Soldier Field landing zone. | AP Photo

Obama exits Air Force One after landing at O’Hare. | AP Photo

Air Force One sits on the runway at O’Hare. | AP Photo

Willis Tower is seen through a window of an Osprey helicopter traveling with Obama. | AP Photo

Obama talks with Gov. Pat Quinn while walking to Marine One helicopter at O’Hare. | AP Photo

Obama pauses as he makes a statement on the shooting at the Fort Hood. | Getty Images

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Before leaving Chicago Cut, President Obama signed a menu. | @ChicagoCut photo

Not everyone was happy that the president was in town. And CBS’ Jay Levine probably wishes he had gotten a different assignment.

And then there was that issue of getting Obama from one spot to the next. Empty streets and police escorts were the theme Wednesday.