Chicago is one of the three largest cities in the United States of America. Together with the suburbs, it forms an entire urban agglomeration, which the locals call Chicagoland. "Chicagoland" has about ten million inhabitants.
Megapolis is known throughout America as a large industrial, economic, cultural business center. The agglomeration is distinguished by convenient transport interchange and highly developed infrastructure, which is confirmed by its workload at O'Hare International Airport. The second place in the world in terms of the number of takeoffs and landings is occupied by this particular airport, located in Chicago. Which US state has acquired such an infrastructure facility? The city is located in the state of Illinois, the administrative district of Cook.
Chicago History
Although Illinois is a developed state, Chicago has not always been a huge metropolis. Back in the nineteenth century, there was a small village on the site of the city, the inhabitants of which were only a few families. The settlement received the status of a city when, througha railroad was built there.
Chicago got its name from a plant. From wild onions growing in this area, the Indians prepared their traditional dishes. By the way, different Indian tribes lived here, the territory was inhabited unevenly: Sauki, Potawatomi, Miami, Sok-Fox.
Chicago, the largest city in Illinois (a state), began to take on its present appearance after a fire that occurred in 1871. The tragedy affected literally a third of the entire population of the city. The local authorities decided to provide housing for the victims as soon as possible.
The old layout of the city was irrational, and therefore Chicago was rebuilt according to a completely new project. The main task of architects and designers was multi-storey buildings. In Chicago, to this day, high-rise buildings are constantly appearing. The world's first skyscraper, which consisted of ten floors, was built in this city. The building was occupied by a reputable insurance company. Soon the architects decided to add several more high-rise buildings to the site.
The city has a large number of different informal names. The most famous is the name "City of Winds". This nickname of the metropolis is associated with changeable weather conditions, in particular strong winds. The air currents are very strong here.
What state would not dream of having such a city: a developed infrastructure, an industrial and business center, a large number of attractions? A combination of various factors made Chicago what it is today.
Chicago Attractions
Chicago is located in Illinois, the political and business center of the United States of America, and this makes it very attractive primarily for businessmen. However, in the city everyone will find entertainment to their liking.
During the day, tourists can sunbathe on wonderful beaches, walk in parks, museums, enjoy architecture, and purchase original things. And the Magnificent Mile is a place that any shopaholic should visit. Here are the most fashionable boutiques, shops and showrooms. Often there are discounts and promotions.
At night, Illinois (state), Chicago and other major cities also do not sleep and are not empty. Chicago is rich in chic restaurants and clubs that will offer unsurpassed, breathtaking shows. The city is distinguished by a large selection of dishes with Italian touches.
Because this state has a great social and political influence, Chicago must have a first-class look. Despite the status of the "stone jungle", the city authorities take care of the greening of the city. This suggests that a pleasant pastime will be provided.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is located in the central part of the city. Free entry and advantageous location have made it a very popular place among city residents and tourists. Millennium is one of the components of Grant Park and is located in its northwestern part, close to the famous skyscrapers.
The construction of the park began in 1997. With significantscandals, criticism and a four-year delay, it was opened in 2004. At the same time, the park is still a model of skillful design. On its territory there is a famous open area, which has the name "bean" for its shape.
Millennium Park features magnificent fountains. They work all year round, so you can visit Chicago and stay with good impressions at any time of the year. In addition, Millennium Park has a free ice skating rink during the winter.
Navi Pier
The waterfront of Chicago, Illinois is considered one of the most beautiful places in the city, which is why it is the most visited attraction. The kilometer-long Navy Pier pier, which is located on Lake Michigan, deserves special attention.
Initially, it was planned to build as many as five such piers, but in the end only one was built. It was assumed that the function of the pier would be more related to logistics than tourism. However, close proximity to downtown Chicago has made part of the waterfront a place for recreation, picnics and lunches.
In the nineties of the last century, the Navy Pier experienced a massive reconstruction. Today, the pier includes gardens, cafes, shops, attractions, exhibition halls, and its symbol is the Ferris wheel, which offers a magnificent view of the metropolis. It is also significant that an endless number of fireworks are launched from the pier in summer and autumn.
Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago (Illinois)is a cultural metropolis and a major educational center, where a sufficient number of museums, theaters and institutions are concentrated.
The Art Institute of Chicago, like Millennium Park, is located in Grant Park. The exhibition halls contain the best works of the creators of impressionism and post-impressionism. The Art Institute of Chicago features collections from all over the world from various eras.
Chicago Lookouts
Of course, if the city is famous for its high-rise buildings, then it also boasts magnificent observation decks. The most famous of them are:
- Willis Tower Skydeck. The observation deck is located on the 103rd floor (412 meters) and is one of the three most popular skyscrapers among tourists. A distinctive feature of the Willis Tower Skydeck is the glass floor.
- John Hancock Observatory. The observation deck is located on the 94th floor under the open sky. The John Hancock Observatory overlooks four neighboring states. The site was opened after the restoration of the observatory in 1997.
Interesting events
Chicago, Illinois is home to various shows and festivals. The top three are:
- Chicago Air & Water Show. The show, which annually attracts several million people, involves all types of aircraft, from civilian to military.
- Chicago Jazz Festival. The jazz festival is an integral part of the life of the city, which is the birthplace of thismusic directions.
- GRANT PARK Music Festival. The park has a large number of open-air stages and venues, which allows concerts and festivals in the summer.
Chicago is a multifaceted city, which is also considered a typical "anthill", where careers are in the first place for many, and attracts with the comfort of parks, magnificence of sights and a large number of events.
