An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
You’ve finally saved up enough days that you can take a vacation, but where to go? Chicago is hands down the Midwest’s number one destination. If you love great food, amazing sights, and wonderful people, then visit one of America’s best cities.
There’s no denying Chicago is great, but you have to see it for yourself. No one can be bored here, and there something for everyone to enjoy. Scroll on for 12 reasons why you should visit.
The first thing to secure for your Chicago stay is a place to sleep, and you have plenty of excellent options. From luxury hotels to quaint bed & breakfasts, the city is awash with wonderful accommodations.
Click here for seven B&Bs that make any trip memorable.
Of course, one main reason for your travels will be food, and Chicago is famous for our culinary creativity. From classics like deep dish pizza to lesser-known favorites like jibaritos, there's always something new you haven't tried yet.
Click here for 16 excellent Chicago restaurant recommendations.
Though it's more poplar among residents, one thing Chicago is known for is brewing its own beer. There are so many locals making it now that we've become snobs about it. If you're a beer connoisseur, this city will be your haven.
Click here for ten brew pubs in Chicago that can't be beat.
Whether it's souvenirs, gifts for loved ones, or to replace something you lost, the shopping scene in Chicago is intense. Many love to travel to the city to shop the Magnificent Mile (which includes Water Tower Mall) or the Fashion Outlet Mall.
If your idea of a vacation means sightseeing, Chicago is the perfect getaway for you. From Museum Campus to Navy Pier to Lincoln Park, there are so many amazing attractions that you probably won't be able to see them all in one trip.
Click here for 12 of the most popular things to do in Chicago.
Chicago is full of parks, gardens, nature preserves, and conservatories. Whether or not you're looking for nature, you'll find it here. Chicago prides itself on its green spaces, so we have many beautiful spots to enjoy.
Click here for ten natural attractions hiding in Chicago.
Nothing makes a vacation more memorable than learning about the place you're visiting. Not all tours in Chicago are just about history, though. Most are focused on having fun!
Click here for a few unforgettable tours that show you all the best sides of Chicago.
Next to our attractions, the entertainment in Chicago is the best reason to visit the city. From sporting events and concerts to comedy acts and musicals, there's no end when it comes to live entertainment in the city.
It's almost impossible not to learn something when you visit Chicago. Historical landmarks are sprinkled throughout the city, and you likely see several on any visit here. The Magnificent Mile alone takes you past a handful of buildings that have been around for what seems like forever.
Click here for some of our favorite historical landmarks in Chicago.
While you may not be expecting to need your swimsuit here, it's actually be wise to bring one on this vacation if you visit during the summer. Our beaches are marvelous and will remind you of a tropical getaway.
Tourists and locals alike are often walking around the city with their cameras out. From the stunning architecture to the pockets of nature, there is so much beauty to enjoy here.
Click here for 15 staggering photos of Chicago to inspire you.
When you visit Chicago, you'll quickly learn that the people who live here are unique and wonderful. Most are kind, willing to help, and full of recommendations and great things to say about the city.
Click here for ten more reasons why people from Chicago are the best.