Chicago

Get blown away by your visit to the Windy City. Chicago, the ninth-most popular tourism destination in the United States, has a rich cultural heritage based largely around transportation itself. Chicago was a central hub city in the days when railroad ruled, and today its O’Hare International Airport is the busiest in the world. With a wide variety of cultural institutions, family activities, professional sports, and much more, a visit will show you why its 2.9 million residents call Chicago “my kind of town.”

One of the highlights of Chicago is its architecture. Buildings designed by celebrated architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies Van Der Rohe mingle with the Sears Tower. The giant abstract sculpture known as the Chicago Picasso has been embraced by residents, occasionally sporting a Cubs hat or other garment to celebrate an important game.

Downtown Chicago is organized in and around the Loop and along the shores of Lake Michigan. Within this area, you’ll find many of Chicago’s world-class museums. From the Adler Planetarium to the Museum of Science and Industry (home of Sue, the most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton in the world) to the Art Institute of Chicago, there’s a top-notch museum—almost all of which are kid-friendly—for every taste.

Speaking of taste, Chicago is also known for its dining experiences, such as the Walnut Room in Marshall Fields. The city also boasts top-notch steaks and, of course, Chicago-style deep dish pizza. Visit spots like Grant Park or the Navy Pier during the spring, summer, or fall, and you’re almost sure to find a festival or other event.

Chicago is home to some of the most dedicated sports fans in the country, and visitors will want to catch a Chicago Cubs game at ivy-covered Wrigley Field or see the White Sox at Comiskey Park. The Chicago Bears, the city’s NFL franchise, play home games at recently renovated Soldier Field, located along the Lake Michigan waterfront. Rounding out the sports franchises are the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and the NHL’s Chicago BlackHawks. Downtown Chicago and the rest of the metro area is easily accessible by the El, Chicago’s excellent public transportation system.