About Chicago
The third most populous city in the United States, Chicago sits perched on Lake Michigan, its skyscrapers glistening above the horizon. The iconic John Hancock Center, sky-high Willis Tower and Tribune Tower rise above the city’s nearly three million residents.
Chi-town also possesses an abundance of culture, from its famed Second City improv and Tony Award® winning Goodman Theatre to the Art Institute of Chicago, boasting hundreds of impressionist paintings and more.
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Overview
From masterful Frank Lloyd Wright buildings such as the Rookery and Robie House to the remarkable Museum of Science and Industry, Aqua Tower and St. John Cantius Church, Chicago’s architecture is one of the city’s grandest achievements. Vacationers can tour these gems and more.
Lake Shore Drive is also worth a look. Chicago’s impressive lakefront bicycle trail stretches from the Indiana border up to Evanston, Illinois, passing through scenic parklands, universities and the Lincoln Park Zoo.
A drive past more than fifteen miles of beaches, skyscrapers and urban green space offers a superb view of the Windy City from ground level; while a peek from high atop the country’s second tallest building, the Willis Tower, offers magnificent panoramic views of four different states.
What To Do
Let the comedic masters of Second City, whose former alumni include such comic legends as Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, and Steve Carell, tickle your funny bone with sketches, songs, and improvisations.
Watch the Chicago Cubs play baseball at world-famous Wrigley Field.
Ride a speedboat along Lake Michigan from Navy Pier passing such renowned Chicago landmarks as the Willis Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and Grant Park.
Take in some of the city’s spectacular views on a bike ride along the lake’s 18-mile path. En route, visit the Lincoln Park Zoo.
Attend a free event at the Chicago Cultural Center. Get a panoramic view of the city and beyond from the 103rd floor Skydeck Chicago on Willis Tower. There are even glass balconies that extend out from the building for those daring to peek 1,353 feet to the ground.
When to Go
Hold onto your hat. The Windy City is probably at its best in the fall. However, summer also sizzles with a great lineup of events and festivals including Lollapalooza. The breezes off the lake make it all worthwhile. Spring is also lovely. Winter sees frigid temperatures, with the wind chill making it feel even colder; if you have a mind to brave the cold, the city transforms into a wonderland around the holidays.
Fast Facts
The renowned Second City improvisational group got its start in December 1959 and has since grown to become one of the world’s favorite comedy clubs, theatres, and improv schools. Some of the legendary stars who first shined their comedic lights here include Bill Murray, Mike Myers, Joan Rivers, Dan Aykroyd, James Belushi, John Belushi, John Candy, Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and a host of others.
The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere. Its 360-degree views span fifty miles and four states.
Chicago’s many nicknames include The Windy City, Chi-town, the City of Big Shoulders, the Second City, and The City That Works.
There are more than 200 theaters, 200 art galleries, and 7,300 restaurants in this cultural mecca.
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