Chicago

Chicago is the largest city in Illinois and the third-most populous city in the United States, set along the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. Often called the "Windy City," it is a major Midwestern centre for architecture, business, culture, food and transportation, with a skyline that ranks among the most distinctive in the country.

Founded as a small settlement in the early 19th century and incorporated as a city in 1837, Chicago grew rapidly into a railroad, trade and industrial powerhouse. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the city rebuilt itself and became a laboratory for modern architecture, producing landmarks such as the Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center and historic early skyscrapers.

Popular attractions include Millennium Park with its reflective Cloud Gate sculpture, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier and the Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park. Neighbourhoods such as the Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Pilsen and Hyde Park each offer a different mix of shopping, dining, museums and local character.

Chicago is also an important centre for business, finance, technology, conventions and international events, anchored by districts such as the Loop and major venues including McCormick Place. Its food culture ranges from deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to Italian beef and a wide variety of ethnic restaurants, while blues, jazz, theatre and year-round festivals add to the city's cultural energy.

For leisure and business travellers alike, Chicago combines Lake Michigan recreation, world-class museums and architecture with strong transport connections, major airports and a dense, walkable downtown.