I’ve lived in Chicago for more than 30 years, and these are the top tips I tell all of my visitors: take public transport, hit the neighborhoods and drink Malört at your peril.
28.07.2023 - 19:13 / forbes.com / What You Need / Art
Chicago is that unique city that marries rich history with contemporary marvels. Renowned for its diverse neighborhoods, stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and delectable culinary experiences, Chicago is a city that never fails to captivate its visitors.
Chicago's neighborhoods have always been the heart and soul of the city, and in recent years, they've experienced a remarkable revival. Pilsen, in particular, has emerged as a thriving hub for art, culture, and innovation. Formerly known for its Mexican roots, Pilsen has transformed into a haven for creatives, boasting vibrant street art, quirky galleries, and a burgeoning food scene with trendy cafes and fusion restaurants.
In the midst of urban charm, Chicago is making impressive strides toward becoming a greener and more sustainable city. Millennium Park, the beloved urban oasis, continues to enchant visitors with its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture while also hosting various eco-conscious events and concerts. The city's commitment to sustainability is further exemplified through green rooftops, bike-sharing programs, and the increased usage of electric public transportation.
Chicago's culinary landscape is ever-evolving, and 2023 welcomes a host of innovative eateries and dining experiences. The city's reputation for deep-dish pizza remains intact, but it's the growing number of farm-to-table restaurants that are garnering attention. Locally-sourced ingredients, inventive dishes, and a focus on sustainability are at the forefront of these establishments, showcasing Chicago's dedication to modern gastronomy.
Cutting-Edge Art and Architecture Exhibitions
As a melting pot of architectural styles, Chicago never ceases to amaze with its diverse skyline. In 2023, new architectural wonders have risen, such as the "Solaris Tower," an eco-friendly skyscraper with integrated solar panels that power public spaces. Additionally, the Chicago Architecture Biennial is set to return this year, bringing together leading architects, artists, and designers from around the world to showcase their creations.
Cultural Celebrations and Festivals
Chicago's calendar is teeming with lively festivals and cultural celebrations throughout the year. From the Chicago Blues Festival, paying homage to the city's rich musical heritage, to the colorful spectacle of the Chinese New Year Parade in Chinatown, visitors can immerse themselves in an array of traditions and festivities that celebrate the city's diverse communities.
Riverwalk Expansion
Chicago's picturesque Riverwalk, which winds along the Chicago River, has been an inviting urban escape for both locals and tourists. Now, with the expansion of the Riverwalk project, new sections offer an array of attractions, including
I’ve lived in Chicago for more than 30 years, and these are the top tips I tell all of my visitors: take public transport, hit the neighborhoods and drink Malört at your peril.
The Bear, now streaming Season 2 on Hulu, introduced many viewers to the Chicago delicacy of an Italian beef sandwich—a combo of spiced, thinly sliced meat and peppers on a crispy length of Italian bread. The show’s central character, an Italian American chef at an acclaimed New York City restaurant, moves home to Illinois to cook the dish at his late brother’s Italian beef joint.
Back to school is just around the corner and Spirit Airlines is making that transition a bit easier by helping students, parents, and teachers alike plan for their first school year vacation with a $40 flight sale.
Spirit Airlines wants to help travelers make sure they squeeze in a summer trip a sale that has one-way fares starting at just $40.
Wrapped around the east coast of mainland Southeast Asia like a mythical Naga serpent, Vietnam naturally lends itself to overland travel. Its two biggest cities – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) – are divided by 1100km of rice paddies, tropical jungles, historic townships, wartime relics, national parks and sandy beaches, and most people plot an itinerary that takes in both of these lively hubs.
Flying to the United Arab Emirates from the United States just got easier. Etihad Airways, one of the national airlines of the UAE, just announced new service between Boston and Abu Dhabi, beginning on March 31, 2024.
Low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines recently launched a brand-new monthly “all-you-can-fly” pass that promises customers unlimited flights for 30 days for just $149.
When you choose a vacation destination, what’s your number one reason for going? Is it a cheap flight, the scenery, or the culture? Well, according to a new survey commissioned by Harry & David, most Americans plan their trips around food.
The whole unhappy story about the doctor hauled off a United flight raises the question of what to do if you’re ever caught in a similar situation. Here’s what you need to know about involuntary bumping.
Sir Richard Branson’s latest trending project isn’t galactic space travel, it’s hotels. The 66-year old mogul has dabbled in the hospitality industry before with his Virgin Limited Edition business, but now he’s bringing the Virgin brand stateside with a handful of Virgin Hotel properties. The first of these is Virgin Hotels Chicago, which I was able to experience in person on a recent trip to Chicago.
We all know that air travel isn’t great for the environment, but a new study has found that tourism is four times worse for the environment than previously thought. The alarming research conducted by University of Sydney researchers and published in the journal Nature Climate Change found that the tourism industry (including direct sources like flights and indirect sources such as souvenir manufacturing) is responsible for eight percent of global greenhouse emissions, which is four times higher than scientists had previously estimated.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on January 25, 2016 and was updated in December 2018. Please consult this article: Do You Still Need to Worry About the Zika Virus for 2019? for the latest info.