Chicago is one of my favorite American Cities! It is so full of character and charm and it will delight all your senses.. From the beautiful architecture, to amazing food and a great music scene, there is something for everyone!
I have visited Chicago on many different occasions and I’ve been there during each of the 4 weather seasons. It’s called the Windy City for a reason.. Winters are brutal, but I have lucked out and had great weather (by Chicago standards ) on a winter weekend in February. However, the best time to visit is during spring and early summer as well as late summer/ early fall.
The major airport to fly into is O’hare airport (ORD). This is a very big international airport and you should allow enough time if you are going to fly in and out of there. It has an international feel with an impressive flag collection near the food court. One of my favorite things about this airport is that there is a train station right inside the airport that connects you with downtown Chicago in about 45 minutes to an hour. I don’t like driving in new cities if I don’t have to, so this is a great option for me. I then uber/lyft wherever I need to go.
Here are some of the things I have enjoyed in Chicago.
The Willis Tower is a very popular tourist attraction. It’s 103 floor and has an observation deck at the top. Not for the faint hearted or those with a fear of heights (unless you are ready to concur those fears!) but the views from the top are amazing and surreal. There is a glass enclosure that you walk into for great pictures (as your heart flutters) but it’s so worth it..
Food: Chicago is known for it’s deep dish pizza and when I tried it I was not disappointed. Everyone has their favorites so I will not endorse any location but if you can sink your teeth into one of these, you’ll thank me later! There are also lots of food festivals in the summer. I attended one such festival and had a blast! Check this site to find all the going on’s before you go..
Sports: Chicago is also know as a sports town! They live and die their baseball team the Chicago Cubs. A couple of years ago, I ended up there on a playoff weekend against my home team, the Los Angeles Dodgers and it was such a treat! If you are a sports fan and looking to go to a road game, Chicago is a great sports destination
Music: Chicago is well known for it’s music scene. I have enjoyed some great blues and jazz but my absolute favorite is live reggae at the self proclaimed Reggae Capital of the U.S.A The Wild Hare! On any given night, you will hear and dance to great bands and artists at this non pretentious venue which also has delicious Jamaican Food.
Some other honorable mentions are the Navy pier and water front as well as the Magnificent Mile for high end shopping.
All in all, I highly recommend a visit to this dynamic city! You will not be disappointed.
