INTRODUCTION TO CHICAGO
Home to Cindy Crawford and Kanye West, the windy city is packed with food, culture and fun. Founded on the banks of Lake Michigan, Chicago is the third most-populated city in the US, so it knows a thing or two about keeping all those people entertained. Kick off summer at Mayfest, the city’s free music festival that greets the warmer weather. This follows a line of musical celebrations in the city, including the Chicago Jazz festival, which hosts a variety of free performances, as well as an array of music festivals at Millennium Park. While in this hot-spot, grab a selfie at the iconic silver Bean, also known as Cloud Gate, and cuddle up with friends for free movie screenings.
If architecture is your thing, you’ll want to check out the view from Willis Tower Skydeck. Guides will tell you about the most iconic buildings in the city, before you jut out on a 412-metre-high glass deck overlooking the Chicago streets. For some less-adrenaline-inducing learnings, head down to the Art Institute of Chicago, where you’ll learn about Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous contributions to the city’s urban landscape. You’ll also learn about other important movements in art, design and furniture throughout the age.
Science fans, Chi-town is your spirit animal. Geek out during virtual-reality tours through space and time at the Adler Planetarium and tours of Ancient Egypt at the Field Museum of Natural History.
For food enthusiasts, this city really knows how to eat. Chow down on one of the best burgers in the country at Au Cheval Diner, or go fusion with chorizo-stuffed dates and delicious cemitas. Pour a glass or two at the Lincoln Park Wine Festival, savour the good grape with cheese and food pairings at the event. With food, fun and a whole heap to do, hear and see, go live your best life in Chicago.