Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago – also known as the Windy City – will blow you away with its stunning architecture, great museums and galleries, unbelievable food and of course some of the most famous teams in US sports. Chicago truly has it all for a holiday Stateside and here’s why!
The first thing you will notice about Chicago is its impressive architecture, from iconic buildings such as the Chicago Savings Bank Building (an early 1900s skyscraper) to the Willis Tower (the tallest building in the world between 1974-1998). Much of Chicago’s skyline shows off that ‘Chicago School’ style which is famous throughout the world. The best way to take it all in would be via an Architectural River Cruise where a guide can really help explain the significance and history of each building.
Once you have seen the sights, you’re going to be hungry and Chicago doesn’t disappoint. You cannot visit Chicago without trying its signature deep dish pizza and Giordano’s is the place to go. Already tried the pizza? Then a Portillo’s hot dog is the next must try, this no-frills joint dates back to 1963 and has since become a Chicago staple, there may be a queue but it’s definitely worth the wait.
Both of these eateries have locations north of the river and after a meal, this puts you in the perfect location to explore Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. It really is the eating, drinking, shopping, social hub of Chicago. The strip is also home to historic Chicago landmarks such as the Chicago Water Tower and John Hancock Center. To get a great aerial view of Chicago and the Magnificent Mile, we recommend taking a trip 1000 feet up in the air at 360 Chicago.
That’s just the city, now lets get to the sports! Few American cities take their sport quite as seriously as Chi-Town and all five of the major league sports teams know how to win, with 19 championships between them. In the NFL, the Bears and Soldier Field give fans a great game day experience with a traditional pre-game tailgate outside the stadium and an always sold out, passionate and loud fanbase. The Bulls (NBA) and Blackhawks (NHL) share the United Center, which is just a 15-minute subway ride from downtown. Basketball fans will want to take selfies by the Michael Jordan statue outside and Blackhawks fans will find themselves singing along to Chelsea Dagger by Scottish band the Fratellis after each goal is scored.
Chicago is great for baseball too, with two Major League teams in the city, the Cubs and White Sox. The Cubs play at Wrigley Field, a baseball relic and a must visit for baseball fans and sports fans alike. Despite having a baron run in the World Series for over 100 years, they did claim the championship again in 2016. Or head to the south side of town to see the White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field, a modern ballpark providing more space for fans and arguably better food options. You may even catch a glimpse of the world’s most famous White Sox fan, Barack Obama.
Whatever your passion, Chicago has something for everyone and if you’re looking for a sports trip to the US then we strongly recommend that you consider the Windy City. Get in touch now via our request form and we can start putting together your dream itinerary.
