Chicago, Illinois, is the largest city in the state and the third largest city in the United States. Affectionately known as "The Windy City" and "Chi-Town," the city is an industry hub and popular tourist destination. Visitors to Chicago will appreciate the city's Midwestern charm and variety of activities. The city has a comfortable climate, with average July temperatures of around 75-degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors and residents recognize that there are several good things about Chicago.
One of the best things about Chicago is that it offers many modes of transportation to make the city easy for travelers. The city is home to O'Hare International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, which serves inbound and outbound flights from throughout the world. Chicago has a major train station that serves all six Class I railroads. Getting around the city is just as convenient. There are nine interstate highways that run through the city, making driving around the city a simple task. Public transportation consists of buses, rapid transit and the Metra commuter rail network. Bicycle transportation is easy with designated bike paths and racks throughout the city.
Chicago has entertainment opportunities for all interests. There are several theaters and theater companies in the city. Comedy shows are offered regularly. You can see the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at the Symphony Center or check out the Lyric Opera of Chicago at the Civic Opera House. There are many outdoor concerts during the summer at Grant Park and Millennium Park. Jazz is a major part of the city's culture and shows are performed regularly. Sports fans will enjoy Chicago because it is home to professional sports teams such as the Cubs and White Sox baseball teams, the Bears football team and the Bulls basketball team.
Chicago is an ideal destination for families with children because of all the enriching activities it has to offer. The Chicago Children's Theatre and Rascal Children's Theater engages children with shows they can be a part of. Kids are sure to enjoy attractions such as the Amazing Chicago Funhouse Maze, Gameworks, Safari Land, Legoland Discovery Center and Six Flags Great America. Kids may enjoy the Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, Chicago Children's Museum or the Notebaert Nature Museum. There are also several great parks throughout the city, most notably, Chicago's Grant Park and Millennium Park.
There is no shortage of great places to eat around Chicago. Perhaps the most famous type of restaurants in Chicago are pizza shops and steakhouses. Chicago is a haven for international cuisine, including Afghani, Asian, Colombian, French, German and Indian restaurants. According to 10best.com, the best Chicago restaurants include Morton's Steakhouse, Tiffin Indian restaurant, Costa's Mediterranean restaurant and the Original Gino's East of Chicago, which serves up Chicago-style pizza.
Chicago is a shopper's delight, with several chain department stores and specialty boutiques throughout the city. The first destination to check out is known as the Magnificent Mile, an eight-block stretch along Michigan Avenue that offers shops with everything from bargain goods to luxury items. You'll find high-end fashion stores on Oak Street and art and antique retailers at the River North Gallery District. You'll find several shopping centers scattered throughout Chicago's neighborhoods. Once your hands are full of shopping bags, you can take a break at one of Chicago's many salons and spas.
