With a diverse mix of arts and music, beautiful beaches, a thriving food scene, miles of stunning lakefront and a bustling city of multicultural neighborhoods there’s lots to explore.
Whatever your interests, Chicago will satisfy them. Pick your passion and begin your Chicago adventure with these five social archetypes below
1. If you’re a foodie
Whether you’re into white table cloths and fine dining or like to eat a tasty snack on the go, you won’t be disappointed.
From award-winning restaurants such Vera, which serves gourmet tapas with a side of local charm, to Chicago’s famous hotdog eateries such as Portillo’s, which started as a hotdog stand in 1963 and now ships their popular hot dogs around the country, you can satisfy your food fix.
If you’re visiting in July be sure to check out the annual Taste of Chicago, which is the world’s largest outdoor food festival packed with vendors from a variety of cuisines.
2. If you’re a geek
For science nerds the Museum of Science and Industry, is the largest in the Western Hemisphere and offers a truly interactive experience.
Immerse yourself in its unique and diverse collection which spans science, technology, design and decorative arts.
From looking at how historic and cutting-edge bikes function, to exploring the chemistry and phenomena of tornados and avalanches, as well as discovering the mathematical patterns of the natural world, you’ll be able to get your geek on.
3. If you’re a culture vulture
The Art Institute of Chicago, which was awarded the accolade for the world’s number one museum in 2014 by TripAdvisor readers, is a must for art novices and enthusiasts alike.
With over 300,000 works in its permanent collection, including Grant Wood’s iconic American painting ‘American Gothic’ (pictured above) even the most discerning will be impressed by the diverse collection of works from every era.
Chicago is also home to over 40 museums including a dedicated Museum Campus featuring The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium so you can continue your art exploration throughout the city.
4. If you’re a fashionista
From massive department stores to neighborhood boutiques, Chicago is a shopper’s paradise. Not to be missed is Michigan Avenue’s eight-block stretch, The Magnificent Mile, which has something for every fashion savvy traveller including towering shopping centers, chic designer studios, intimate specialty retail shops, iconic department stores, lavish luxury boutiques and trendy favourites – all within an easy stroll.
5. If you’re a muso
Blues, Jazz, Rock, Classical – you’ll find every genre at live music clubs and outdoor events in Chicago. If you like intimate surroundings head to Andy’s Jazz Club where you can enjoy a sophisticated setting whilst listening to top Jazz artists.
If you prefer to rock out in a bigger space, Millennium Park attracts headline acts and offers a state-of-the-art sound system so you can listen to world-class tunes whilst taking in views of the stunning city skyline.
Chicago is also renowned for its three-day hipster fave Lollapalooza and Chicago Blues Festival (the largest free Blues festival in the world), where you’ll be able to sing, dance and get groovin with locals and other tourists alike.
Don’t fit the categories above? There’s more on offer for theatre lovers, nature enthusiasts and thrill seekers too so everyone should add America’s third largest city to their bucket list.