Chicago
Chicago is the bustling metropolis of the American Midwest, situated along the southwestern shores of Lake Michigan in Illinois. Famous for its groundbreaking skyscraper architecture, deep-dish pizza, world-class art museums, jazz and blues heritage, and sprawling lakefront parklands.
- Country
- United States
- Main airport (of 6)
- O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Time zone
- America/Chicago
- Tracked routes
- 8 inbound routes
Where to stay in Chicago
The Loop is Chicago's downtown heart, surrounded by historic architecture, Millennium Park, and major theater venues. River North offers upscale hotels, art galleries, and vibrant dining along the Chicago Riverwalk. The Magnificent Mile (Michigan Avenue) appeals to high-end shoppers and museumgoers. Neighborhoods like West Loop cater to foodies with Michelin-starred restaurants, while Lincoln Park provides quiet leafy streets.
Things to do in Chicago
Take an open-air Architecture River Cruise along the Chicago River to learn about skyscraper design. Pose before the reflective 'Bean' (Cloud Gate) sculpture in Millennium Park. Admire masterpieces like Seurat's pointillism at the Art Institute of Chicago. Take in 360-degree city views from the Willis Tower Skydeck or 360 Chicago. Feast on authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches.
Getting around Chicago
Chicago is served by O'Hare International Airport (ORD, 29 km northwest) and Midway International Airport (MDW, 18 km southwest). The CTA 'L' train Blue Line connects O'Hare to the Loop in 45 minutes, while the Orange Line connects Midway in 25 minutes. Public transit is managed by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) using Ventra cards or contactless bank cards.
When to visit Chicago
Summer (June to August) is peak season, bringing festival vibes, warm lake breezes averaging 28°C, and beach activity along Lake Michigan. Autumn (September to October) offers crisp pleasant weather and autumn foliage. Winter (December to February) is bitterly cold and snowy ('The Windy City'), while Spring (April to May) brings blooming gardens.
Practical tips for Chicago
- Tap your contactless credit card or phone at CTA 'L' train turnstiles for instant ride payment.
- The United States uses Type A and B electrical plugs operating at 120 V.
- Tipping in restaurants is customary; leave 18% to 20% for good service.
- Walk the Chicago Riverwalk for open-air waterfront dining and kayak rentals.
- Dress in thermal layers and heavy outerwear if visiting during winter months.
Popular hotels
Popular hotels in Chicago
Compare highly rated Chicago hotels from live Google Hotels data before choosing where to stay. Use the filters to scan central, airport, luxury, budget and family-friendly options for the city.
Getting to Chicago
6 airports
8 tracked routes
Flown by American Airlines, All Nippon Airways, United Airlines, Air France and Delta Air Lines and 5 more.
What are the top things to do in Chicago?
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FAQ
Chicago — frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the details travellers usually check first, from codes and locations to the practical basics that help with planning.
6 common questions
- Take the CTA Blue Line 'L' train directly from the airport terminal station to downtown Loop stations.
- Ride the CTA Orange Line 'L' train from Midway Station directly to the downtown Loop in about 25 minutes.
- Chicago deep-dish pizza features a thick, buttery crust baked in a high-sided pan, layered heavily with mozzarella cheese, meat or vegetable fillings, and topped with chunky crushed tomato sauce.
- The 'Bean' is the popular nickname for Cloud Gate, a monumental 110-ton seamless stainless steel sculpture designed by Anish Kapoor, located in Millennium Park reflecting the skyline.
- It is an official 90-minute boat tour along all three branches of the Chicago River led by expert docents detailing the history, engineering, and design of Chicago's famous skyscrapers.
- Yes, all 26 miles of Chicago's public beaches along Lake Michigan, including Oak Street Beach and North Avenue Beach, are completely free and open to the public during summer.