1. The Skyline is a Living Piece of Art
The Willis (Sears) Tower, the Jeweler’s Building, the Cultural Center, the Thompson Center, The Board of Trade. The list of amazing architecture goes on and on.
2. The Best Pizza in the Country, Without a Doubt
Get ready to drool while you wait for the beauty that is deep dish Chicago pizza. Check out Lou Malnati’s for the real deal.
3. There’s a Giant Silver Bean Sculpture in the Middle of Town
It’s true name is “Cloud Gate”, but giant silver bean has a nicer ring to it, imo.
4. It’s Damn Clean for a Large City
Chicago’s the third biggest city in the country, but it’s way cleaner. Ever been to Philadelphia? It’s half of the size and 10x the smell.
5. Marilyn Monroe Has a Larger Than Life Presence
You can try to pose like her. Or get in closer for a better view…
6. You Haven’t Experienced Cub Baseball Until You’ve Spent a Night at Wrigleyville Bars
Murphy’s is a staple of any Cubs fan looking for a good time when the Cubs are out of town (Nothing actually beats Wrigley). Other fine establishments in Wrigleyville include Harry Caray’s, Sluggers Bar, and Irish Oak.
7. Get Ready to Name Your Dog Ditka
Dikta and Da’ Bears.
8. Jordan – LeBron’s Got Nothing on Him
9. Lake Michigan’s More Beautiful Than an Ocean
Lake Michigan is so big that you can’t see the other side, so it’s essentially an ocean.
10. The Chicago Arts District Has Art Walks You Need to See
The Chicago Arts District holds walks of gallerys on a regular basis. It’s a great way to get a tour of the neighborhood.
11. Broadway Comes to Chicago
The theater scene is booming in Chicago with most of the major plays coming to the city. BroadwayinChicago gives you easy access to tickets.
12. Bundle Up, Winter’s Cold in The Windy City
The winter makes your stronger for the rest of the year. Trust us.
13. You’ll Love 63rd Street Beach on a Hot July Day
Sometimes you just need to cool off in the summer sun and 63rd st beach ranks towards the top of the list to do it.
14. Get Schooled at Museum Campus
From the Adler Planetarium, to the Shedd Aquarium, to the Field Museum of History and the Art Institute of Chicago (nearby), Museum Campus is bastion of knowledge.
15. Take in a Concert at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park
16. The Signature Room is Where All the Cool Kids Hang Out
17. Cupcakes From Heaven
Sweet Mandy B’s cupcakes will take you away from all of your worries.
18. Enjoy a Good Book With a Glass of Wine at The Book Cellar
In-line with the sophisticated, educated vibe of Chicago, The Book Cellar’s a great place to take a load off.
19. Check Out the Coal Mine Tour in the Museum of Science & Industry
20. Get Excited for the Pride Parade
It might not be San Francisco, but it’s one helluva good time.
21. Hot Doug’s Hot Dogs are an Institution
The menu says it all: “The Dog” – Chicago-Style Hot Dog with all the trimmings: ’nuff said
22. There’s Always a Food Cart Nearby
Because a good pretzels or some nuts can never be too far away.
23. Italian Beef Sandwiches
Check out Al’s Beef for a quality Italian Beef Sandwich. America at it’s finest.
24. Have a Picnic in the Lincoln Park Zoo
Lions, and tigers, and rhinos, yes please.
25. Take in Afternoon Organ Concerts at Rockerfeller Chapel in Hyde Park
Something you need to try at least once, even if organ’s aren’t your weekly thing.
26. You’ll Love Not Owning a Car
If this guy walks around, then you can too. And there’s always Zipcar to fall back on if you’re ever in a pinch.
27. Relax By Walking Chicago in the Fall
Take it all in before the winter comes.
28. The Loop Has Everything
The Loop has everything from shopping, to architecture, to culture. You’ll find yourself here a lot.
29. Chicago Diner Milkshakes. End of Story.
Don’t let the veggies scare you away. These milkshakes bring everyone to the yard.
30. The Red Line is Better Than the Blue Line
But it’s not a competition.
31. And It is All Located in the Midwest
Thank god for that.
