Dubbed the Windy City, this great American city is one of the world’s foremost centres for sport, music and modern art.
Located in the ‘Prairie State’ of Illinois, Chicago is the metropolitan giant of the Midwest and the third largest city in the States, standing tall and proud on the edge of Lake Michigan. Home of Willis Tower,, the nation’s tallest skyscraper, you can see the Great Lake and many of the other famous sights across the city from its viewing platform, which stands a dizzying 412 metres above ground.
One of the famous attractions you’ll be able to make out is Lincoln Park, a great place to spend many happy hours with beaches, sports grounds and landscaped gardens. To the south side of the park, you can pay a visit to the Chicago History Museum and find out more about the heritage of this legendary all-American city. In the heart of the park, meanwhile, take a stroll through the Lincoln Park Conservatory or explore the Lincoln Park Zoo. The zoo is home to over a thousand animals. If this whets your appetite, head for Brookfield Zoo19 kilometres west of town, more than twice the size and home to dolphin displays, big cats and all kinds of primates.
In the downtown Loop district, head for Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile for some serious retail therapy, as well as to find plenty of great spots to eat and drink. To the south of the Magnificent Mile, you’ll find the Art Institute of Chicago, which plays host to a remarkable range of masterpieces from America and Europe, with works by Monet, Van Gogh and many other famous artists lining its walls. Nearby Millennium Park also makes a great place to while away some time with public art attracting the crowds – impressive open-air concerts are held here through the summer too.
Head for the South Loop to find Chicago’s Museum Campus, just a short journey from downtown by car or on the Chicago ‘L’ elevated subway, to look around the Field Museum where you’ll find a rich array of natural history exhibits, and the Museum of Science where you can see a mock coal mine and an aircraft among the showpieces.
Chicago has of course made a huge impact on American culture, with huge icons hailing from the great city. Go and see the Ernest Hemingway Museum and House where the famous author was born. In the elegant Oak Park district, you’ll find the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio where the great architect once lived. One of his greatest works Unity Temple stands nearby. As you return into town, take a trip to the Garfield Park Conservatory, a stunning urban garden with rare and exotic plants on display.
There are some attractions for which Chicago is world-famous. Head to Wrigley Field to take in a baseball game, or go and enjoy some blues at a historic venue like B.L.U.E.S. on Chicago’s north side or Kingston Mines near Lincoln Park. Check out Navy Pier with its great bars and restaurants. Perfect for relaxation during your tri