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Chicago is on the picturesque shore of Lake Michigan in Illinois . The third largest city in the United States . Known as “The Windy City” due to breezes off the lake and sometimes as “The City That Works” a promotional campaign that recognises the long hours worked by residents.
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods beyond the Loop and Michigan Avenue . Armitage has up market boutiques, Lincoln Park expensive houses and Lakeview with its alternative scene. Clark Street area has Chicago 's Gay /Lesbian called Boystown. Wicker Park and Bucktown is the place for restaurants, bars and boutiques. Most attractions lie in the downtown or North Side area with some are on the South Side.
Chicago was destroyed by fire in 1871 which meant that the city was rebuilt to a new ordered design. This led to some fine architecture with downtown towers and “The Magnificent Mile” of Michigan Avenue . Main attractions are the Sears Tower ; Hancock Building ; Navy Pier and the shopping along “Magnificent Mile”. Chicago has jazz, blues clubs, restaurants and entertainment.
Walk along the waterfront or in Millennium Park .
Visiting Chicago for many is a new and different experience. Chicago has a flavour and a pace that is all its own. What you will find throughout this interesting and exciting city are interesting people, intriguing sights, and food that you will definitely want to write home about. Chicago restaurants offer some interesting themes and tastes for visitors but one that stands out from the crowd is the Medieval Times where you can enjoy a feast and a fight fit for a King. The fun and adventure do not end here though. There are many great things to do and see in Chicago.
Soldier Field Area
No trip to Chicago is complete without a trip to Soldier Field. This field is truly a monument to the past as well as the rich history that sports have in the Chicago area. There are many shows that take place here throughout the year so be sure to check and see if something exciting is going on during your visit. Also in the neighbourhood are a few attractions that might appeal to you such as The Field Museum, The Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum, and the Shedd Aquarium, which is currently the largest indoor aquarium in the world.
Navy Pier
Not too far from Museum Campus (where you will find Soldier Field) is Navy Pier. In fact, you can take the water taxi over. Navy Pier is a Chicago landmark and has served the civilian and military community of Chicago since opening in 1916. Today you will find all manner of entertainment and dining experiences as well as shops, shows, and recreation. Recreation includes a 150-foot Ferris wheel, a miniature golf course, and a carousel.
Zoos
Chicago is home to two zoos. The Lincoln Park Zoo is free to the public and open year round. There are some specialty attractions that cost a small fee but the fee free admission policy is attractive and the zoo is offers plenty of exciting exhibits even without the extras. However, the extras are truly spectacular and worth the additional costs involved. This zoo also happens to be one of the oldest zoos in the country but that doesn't prevent it from offering some of the most modern facilities of any zoo in the country. You definitely get more than your money's worth at Lincoln Zoo.
The other Zoo in Chicago is the Brookfield Zoo, which is also open year round. This zoo has received worldwide recognition for its use of natural barriers to house its inhabitants. During certain seasons there is a tram tour of the zoo available to visitors. Either zoo makes an attractive and enjoyable addition to your Chicago itinerary.
When visiting Chicago you will want to check and see if there are any major festivals or events going on during your stay. Chicago offers many wonderful attractions and festivals at various times throughout the year. These events are actually the source of excellent entertainment and shopping in many cases. You may find that the Chicago Blues Festival or Venetian Night becomes the highlight of your visit.
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