Chicago

Chicago, Illinois, is a bustling city known for its vibrant arts scene, numerous cultural attractions, iconic architecture, and varied culinary experiences.

Founded in 1833, Chicago grew rapidly in the 19th century due to its strategic location for transportation and commerce. It's known for its architectural innovation and the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

Chicago is a culturally rich city with a diverse population including a mix of ethnic neighborhoods, a variety of cultural institutions, and festivals celebrating this diversity throughout the year.

• Chicago is called 'The Windy City', not just for its breezes but for its 19th-century political climate.
• The first ever Ferris wheel was built in Chicago in 1893.
• Chicago's O'Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world.
• The Twinkie was invented in Chicago in 1930.
• Chicago River is the only river in the world that flows backwards, a result of an engineering marvel.
• The city's lakefront shoreline is lined with public beaches and parks.
• Chicago has some of the tallest buildings in the United States, including the Willis Tower.
• The Chicago Public Library was created directly from the ashes of the Great Chicago Fire.
• It has an extensive public art collection, with works by Picasso, Chagall, and Miro on public display.
• The city has a special dyeing of the Chicago River green for St. Patrick's Day.
• Chicago is known for its contributions to the development of blues and jazz music.
• The Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is one of the oldest zoos in North America.
• The city was instrumental in the creation of improv comedy.
• It is home to the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, the Museum of Science and Industry.
• The L (elevated train system) is one of the oldest in the world.

• Visit the iconic Millennium Park and take a photo with the Cloud Gate sculpture.
• Explore the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the leading art museums in the world.
• Enjoy views from the Willis Tower Skydeck.
• Take an architecture river cruise to learn about the city's famed buildings.
• Try deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs.
• Go to a jazz or blues club for live music.
• Attend a sports event, as Chicago is home to several major teams.
• Visit the historic Navy Pier for entertainment and food.
• Shop along the Magnificent Mile.
• Use public transportation or rent a bike to explore neighborhoods.

• Purchase a tourist pass for discounts on attractions.
• Use public transportation instead of taxis or ride-shares.
• Eat at local diners and food stands instead of high-end restaurants.
• Visit free attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago Cultural Center.
• Stay in accommodations outside of the city center.
• Look for free days at museums and conservatories.
• Walk or rent a bike to explore the city.

• 911 for police, fire, and medical emergencies
• 311 for non-emergency city services and information
• Poison Control Center: +1 800-222-1222
• Chicago Police Department Non-Emergency: +1 312-746-6000
• Chicago Fire Department Non-Emergency: +1 312-745-3705
• Nearest hospitals with emergency rooms can be located via Google Maps or local directories

Chicago experiences all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters, warm to hot and humid summers, and mild springs and autumns.

Late spring to early fall (May to October) when the weather is warm and the city offers numerous festivals and outdoor activities.