FACTS ABOUT CHICAGO
State: Illinois
County: Cook
Population: 2,695,598
Climate: Called “The Windy City,” Chicago’s blustery chill keeps its snowy winters consistently below freezing. Summers here are hot and humid, and its spring/fall seasons are dry and mild.
Time Zone: Central
Chicagos Top Venues: Soldier Field, United Center, US Cellular Field, Wrigley Field, Cadillac Palace Theatre, Medinah Country Club, Chicago Theatre, Ford Center for Performing Arts, Auditorium Theatre
Chicago has a culture and atmosphere that makes it one of the most unique destinations in the world. The most populous city in the Midwest has such a rich history, rabid sports fanbase and thriving comedy and music scene that anyone who spends a few days in The Second City will ultimately dream of making a return trip.
The Chicago sports scene is among the most active and intense in the entire country. The city is home to two baseball teams–the Cubs and White Sox, both of whom have equally loyal fanbases. The Cubs' home park, Wrigley Field, is somewhat of a national treasure. Built in 1914, the beautiful stadium has hosted memorable games played within its diamond field, highlighted by an iconic ivy-laden outfield wall. The stadium also offers a breathtaking view of the city just over center field – something, not many other parks can boast.
One of the NFL’s oldest franchise calls Chicago home–the Bears. The Monsters of the Midway have played their home games at Soldier Field since the early '70s and have seen some of the most legendary players and coaches come through their ranks, from Walter Payton to Mike Ditka to Mike Singletary.
The NBA’s Bulls are just as important in Chicago’s sports landscape. During Michael Jordan's dominant tenure in the city the Bulls won six NBA championships, a feat which still resonates throughout the city. With a new MVP in town in Derrick Rose, the team looks to continue its dominance in the league.
It’s known for its wind, but Chicago is also a town that loves ice–specifically the sheet that the Chicago Blackhawks play on. Another resident of the United Center (along with the Bulls), the Hawks are one of the most successful NHL teams, and one of the “original six” teams.
If sports aren't your cup of tea, there's plenty more that Chicago offers. The city is rife with musical talent and has been the home of innumerable acts throughout the decades. It also is peppered with famous venues, including the Chicago Theater. This iconic building was built in 1921 and is considered to be an unofficial emblem of the city. It is frequently the host of shows ranging from comedy, to pop music acts to classical music.
Along with the Chicago Theater, the city also is the host of numerous festivals throughout the year. The Chicago Blues Festival has been held every year since 1984, and has featured performances from the likes of B.B. King, Chuck Berry and Stevie Ray Vaughn.
You also can't leave Chicago without indulging in some of the cuisine. Whether it's a Chicago-style pizza, a hot dog or the city's famous Italian beef sandwich, it will definitely leave you wanting more.