With 45.6 million visitors in 2008, Chicago is a prime tourist location. Attractions such as the Field Museum, Wrigley Field, the Lincoln Park Zoo, Lake Michigan, the Chicago Children's Museum and the Chicago Botanic Garden provide something for everyone.
Founded in 1833, Chicago emerged after a treaty between the Pottawatomie Indians and the U.S. government. The growing city was almost decimated by the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. In spite of the disaster, Chicago emerged bigger and stronger than ever in the following years. By 1893, 27.5 million visitors flocked to the city's World Columbian Exposition.
Chicago is known as the Windy City. Chicago hosts Oceanarium, part of the Shedd Aquarium, and the largest indoor mammal pavilion in the world. Roller skates were invented in Chicago. Other than Warsaw, Poland, Chicago has the largest population of Polish people in the world. The Chicago River is the only backward-flowing river on earth.
Chicago abounds with eateries and accommodations. With more than 7,300 restaurants, there is something for everyone's palate and budget. Numerous bars, taverns and pubs beckon the thirsty traveler. With over 100,000 guest rooms available at almost 700 hotels, accommodations are available for everyone.
