Chicago is the inland metropolis that contrasts with the two great coastal metropolises, New York and Los Angeles, imitating their style but without betraying its origins. And Chicago’s origins are those of a commercial, colonial city, always accustomed to fighting for its territory. An open, modern city, blessed with a lake climate (Lake Michigan) that makes it special. A vacation here is a cultural and interesting vacation, different from the usual “American Trip” … and exciting anyway.
Best period to visit Chicago
Chicago -“Wind City”- is famous for its many windy days, which can be terrible during the cold and snowy winters. The magic of the city, though, is special even in December and January. Chicago is a beautiful place to visit all the time, but we suggest you book your stay on July or August. In the summer, in fact, local temperatures are mild warm and lovely. Perfect for tourists who want to mainly … walk and explore!
Travel documents
In order to enter the United States from abroad all you need to do is show a valid passport and an ESTA visa (i.e. the mandatory electronic tourist stay permit that you fill in and obtain online) . You can add travel medical insurance to these basic documents. It is not mandatory but highly recommended, because in America health care is very expensive and you have to cover the costs in anticipation. Then, you will only have to wait for your papers to get stamped at the airport … and then enjoy your Chicago adventure!
What to pack for your trip to Chicago
If you are going to visit Chicago in the summer, you can easily bring short-sleeved clothes and comfortable shoes because you will have many opportunities to walk and hike. Don’t forget, however, to stock up on long-sleeved clothes, sweaters and jackets because even in summer – here – the nights are cold. Of course, bring your devices, chargers and adapters for sockets and kilowatts, which are different in the USA. Don’t forget your swimsuit! Lake Michigan is as big as a sea… and there will be no shortage of beaches!
How to get to Chicago
Chicago is in the heart of the United States and therefore at the center of all communication routes. You easily reach it via highways, therefore with rental cars or with the famous American interstate buses. It has a famous central railway station, also celebrated in films such as “The Untouchables”, and therefore you can arrive with Amtrack trains from every other city in America. The metropolis relies on two large airports, Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Chicago Midway (MDW), both very modern, busy and very well connected to the center. If you are in Canada or in another point on the coast on Lake Michigan you can also reach Chicago by boat!
How to move through Chicago
The efficiency of transportation systems in the Windy City Chicago has something for everyone. From organized private transfers to rented cars and bikes, you will have a wide range of choice. Exploring a city has never been as easy as it is in Chicago.
Private transfers – including exclusive chauffeur services and shuttles – are available everywhere. Companies such as Transfeero offer a seamless, stress-free journey to your destination with every kind of vehicle you might like.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is the heart of public transportation in Chicago, with extensive bus and train services. The “L” trains, renowned for their elevated tracks, connect significant parts of the city and beyond, while the bus network fills in the gaps, making sure every corner of Chicago is accessible. Visitors can purchase a Ventra Card for easy fare payment and enjoy unlimited ride passes for the utmost flexibility. Of course you can travel by taxi, or rent a bike (try the bike-sharing Divvy plan!).
What to see
The city’s architectural splendor is the main and first monument in Chicago. Every single skyscraper is a treasure to admire, together with the many masterpieces great architects have left here and there. Willis Tower, once the tallest building in the world, the historic John Hancock Center, Holy Family Church, Navy Pier … are just some examples! In order to admire all the best of Chicago’s architecture, walk the “Magnificent Mile” … the most stunning shopping street in America … or have a boat trip and admire the skyline from the river and lake.
Culture thrives in the corners of Chicago’s renowned museums and theaters. The Art Institute of Chicago houses an impressive collection of works; Field Museum invites visitors on a journey through natural history, while the Museum of Science and Industry caters to curious minds with interactive exhibits. Of course you cannot miss the museum dedicated to architecture.
Chicago is also lake beaches, great parks, the incredible elevated-track train, and the possibility of easily reaching many other interesting places, both in the US and in Canada!
What to do and NOT to do in Chicago
In Chicago you absolutely must: walk the Magnificent Mile, swim in lake Michigan, explore the historic railway station, have a nice trip on the elevated train, eat the famous local “pizza”, enjoy the view from a river boat cruise!
You must NEVER: “pollute” local hot-dogs with ketchup, try to drive your rented car in Downtown’s streets, make comparison with New York (local people really hate this!), show your cash money… jewels…precious watches when you walk in the streets, especially at night. Avoid neighbourhoods such as South Shore, Washington Park, Englewood.