Chicago is considered to be the true megapolis in the world. Next to New York and Los Angeles, Chicago is the place that defines a true American city. It is definitely the place to see at least once in the lifetime. We have picked ten things you should see or do once there.
10. Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day
It is celebrated on 17 March to commemorate Christianity’s arrival to Ireland. Irish communities in USA, especially Boston, Chicago and other European countries also celebrate it. Green dyed rivers define the fest.
Why to go there?
The Irish community in Chicago throw quite a lot of entertaining parties. Everyone is welcome, even if they are not Irish.
9. Chicago City Hall
The beautiful building got in the spotlight in 2001, when then mayor Richard M. Daley and architect William McDonough fulfilled an original and inspiring project. Due to the smog, global warming and extremely hot weather during summer, the need for green areas in the cities is growing. Hopefully, the solution to exploit the roofs for planting might be a common solution in the future.
Why to go there?
Learn about ecology and ways of applying it in your town.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by A Left Eyed View
8. Take the Lake Shore Drive
Stretching along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, 25 km (16 mi) long Lake Shore Drive offers indeed some unforgettable sites. It combines the amazing urban cityscape of one of the biggest American cities with the views of the one of the biggest American lakes.
Why to go there?
The drive is part of U.S. Highway 41. There are many junctions and bridges that connect with the city, allowing to explore Chicago and its suburbs.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by John Harrison
Photo by rudi1976
Photo by Steven Suwatanapongched
7. Experience the Nightlife
Yes, we know the Big Apple never sleeps, but Chicago is another proper megapolis here. Everything is a bit different and more rock’n’roll then in NYC. Great food, cocktail bars and music venues attract locals as well as guests from all around the world.
Why to go there?
Chicago is one of the most exciting American cities for sure. Its gigantic architecture, busy cultural life and numerous venues prove it also to be one of the biggest towns in the world.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
6. Go Shopping in Chicago
It is said that shopping in Chicago will be quite an adventure. The city has plenty of shopping centers as well as chic boutiques. The number one place to go is the iconic Magnificent Mile – the major shopping district was founded in the 1940s!
Why to go there?
Discover the great city and its vast shopping districts, where you will find entertainment, cafes as well as original goods.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
5. Discover Food
The cuisine has been influenced by hundreds of foreigners, who have brought their own food culture and traditions from all over the world. Chicago has plenty of amazing donut shops, cafes, bistros and restaurants.
Why to go there?
Once in Chicago, take the opportunity and allow yourself a tasty treat.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
4. Lake Michigan
It is one of the five Great Lakes of North America and the only one, whose surface lies in the US only and is not shared with Canada. Chicago is situated on the shoreline of the lake. In winter it freezes and makes an impressive site. At St. Joseph North Pier waves freeze and create amazing ice structures.
Why to go there?
See one of the five Great Lakes of North America and these marvelous ice formations.
Photo by Bob Segal
Photo by Hank Cain
Photo by Unknown
3. Hit the Beaches
The true American metropolis is situated on the coast of Lake Michigan – one of the five Great Lakes of North America. The coastline provides more than 20 beaches for various leisure activities: swimming, relaxing, riding a bike on a shoreline and enjoying various events in summer. In winter Chicago often receives a very cold weather and the lake freezes, also creating a spectacular sight.
Why to go there?
A lot of entertaining events take place in summer. There are various facilities, cafes and bars, while admission to all the beaches is free.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
2. See Cloud Gate
The public sculpture by British artist Anish Kapoor, was posited in AT&T Plaza at Millennium Park in 2006. It has become an icon of the city ever since. Because of its shape it has been nicknamed The Bean.
Why to go there?
See this iconic landmark and take a selfie – taking pictures of the reflection on The Bean is one of the most popular attraction here!
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
1. Ascend to the Viewpoints
Chicago is one of the main and biggest megalopolis in America. An abundance of skyscrapers define the skyline of the city. Meanwhile, many of them have the viewpoints where visitors are welcome to come admire Chicago from Above.
Why to go there?
Notice that there are no advertisements on the buildings, making it a wonderful place to take pictures.
Photo by Vadim Makhorov
Photo by Vadim Makhorov
Photo by Vadim Makhorov