Chicago, the Windy City, is a vibrant urban destination that combines dramatic architecture, world-class museums, and a lively arts scene, all set against the backdrop of Lake Michigan’s scenic shores. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended vacation, Chicago promises an exciting experience with something for everyone. This travel guide provided by Expedia offers tips on where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of your visit to this dynamic American city.
#### Getting There and Around
Chicago is well-connected by air with two major airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a hub for both national and international flights. Midway generally handles domestic flights and is smaller but closer to downtown.
Once in the city, Chicago’s public transportation system offers easy access to just about anywhere you want to go. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) runs extensive bus and elevated train lines (the “L”) throughout the city. For visitors, purchasing a Ventra card or a tourist pass might be the most economical option. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
#### Top Attractions
1. **Millennium Park**: Located in downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is famous for its innovative art installations like Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”), which reflects the city skyline in its shiny metallic surface. The park also hosts concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion during summer months.
2. **Art Institute of Chicago**: Known for its impressive collection of Impressionist art as well as American art, Old Masters, European paintings, Asian artifacts, and modern works—the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in America.
3. **Navy Pier**: Stretching over Lake Michigan’s waterfront, Navy Pier includes gardens, attractions, shops, restaurants, concert venues, and parks all on one pier; it’s especially popular among families thanks to its Ferris wheel offering stunning views of Lake Michigan.
4. **The Museum of Science and Industry**: Located on Hyde Park’s lakefront near the University of Chicago campus,it remains one of the largest science museums in the world where visitors can explore everything from submarine technology to virtual reality experiences.
5. **Willis Tower Skydeck**: For breathtaking views over Chicago from above visit Willis Tower Skydeck; standing 103 stories high it gives visitors a panoramic view not only across Illinois but also across parts of Indiana Wisconsin,and Michigan on clear days.
#### Where to Eat
Chicago boasts an exciting food scene characterized by its diversity ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea to local favorites such as deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s. Don’t miss trying other local specialties like Italian beef sandwiches or Polish sausages either; neighborhoods such as Wicker Park offer trendy eateries while Chinatown serves up some authentic Asian cuisines.
#### Nightlife
For nightlife enthusiasts,the River North neighborhood offers many stylish bars clubs,and lounges while classic blues can still be heard at clubs like Buddy Guy’s Legends.If theater interests you catch a show at The Second City which helped launch careers for many famous comedians or enjoy Broadway productions at theaters scattered around The Loop area.
#### Accommodation
Expedia provides numerous options for accommodation ranging from luxury hotels along The Magnificent Mile with their famous shopping district,to budget-friendly hostels closer toward some university campuses.Whether looking for something historic charming contemporary sophisticated or simple there will be accommodations that fit every preference.