Chicago Travel Information

Chicago Information

Colloquially known as the ‘Windy City’, this great American metropolis is stunningly positioned on the shores of the massive Lake Michigan. Located in Illinois’ northeast, at the south-western point of Lake Michigan, Chicago is surrounded by water, with the beautiful blue freshwater of Lake Michigan as well as the two rivers that flow through it: the Chicago River that runs through the downtown area; and the Calumet River that flows through the South Side. As the largest city in Illinois, and the entire Midwestern region of the United States, it has a population of almost 3 million, with almost 10 million people estimated to live within the metropolitan area often referred to as “Chicagoland”.

Founded in the early 1800’s, Chicago quickly became a telecommunications and transportation hub. It has maintained its role with O’Hare International Airport the second busiest in the world, and the city itself recognised as one of the top ten financial centres in the world. Chicago is also an exciting tourist destination and offers a smorgasbord of cultural delights. It is considered to be the home of blues, has a fabulous jazz scene and boasts an internationally renowned opera and symphony, as well as a thriving arts community that incorporates theatre, visual arts and dance.

A great place to begin to explore the city is the Chicago Cultural Centre, where you will discover the Office of Tourism with its three levels of beautifully presented rooms containing information and displays. Millennium Park is a short stroll across the street and is filled with work by the famous architect Frank Gehry, as well as lots of interactive exhibits. For art lovers, a visit to the internationally recognised Art Institute is also a must.

Chicago’s downtown area is easy to explore. For those keen on shopping, head for Chicago’s famous Magnificent Mile on Michigan Ave. to explore its many malls and designer stores. The inner city is commonly called the ‘Loop’ in reference to the metro railway, known as the El train that circles the city centre. Chicago’s dramatic skyline boasts some of the world’s most innovative modern architecture that befits its role as the home of the world’s first skyscraper. A stroll down the Navy Pier with its colourful Ferris wheel is a great way to soak in the atmosphere or for a really great view; you can cruise down to North Avenue Beach and see the city in all its glory. Home to two of the nation’s tallest buildings including the Sears Tower and the Trump Tower it is well worth the effort.

Don’t forget to sample some of the famous local cuisine. A visit to Chicago is not complete without trying the city’s famous deep dish pizza and Chicago style hot dogs.