Chicago

United States

Safety rating
7/10
Best time to visit
Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers warm weather and festivals, with summer the liveliest. Winters are bitterly cold and windy.
Population
8.9M

Overview

The Windy City dazzles with bold architecture, a sparkling lakefront, and a deep jazz, blues, and theater heritage. Deep-dish pizza, world museums, and friendly Midwestern energy define it.

Top attractions

Snap a photo at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park, ascend the Willis Tower Skydeck, take an architecture boat cruise, and visit the Art Institute.

Getting around

The elevated L trains and buses run on a Ventra card or contactless tap, and the Loop and Mag Mile are walkable. Lakefront paths are great for cycling.

Airports near Chicago

Chicago essentials