Chicago is a major metropolis—a perennial rival to New York City and the second most important center of financial, business, and cultural life in the United States.
Michigan Avenue is the city’s main thoroughfare, its northern end ending at the lake. This stretch, known as the “Magnificent Mile,” is home to numerous prestigious boutiques, high-fashion stores, and giant shopping malls. The downtown area will be of interest to architecture buffs; it is home to most of Chicago’s skyscrapers, and the streets are adorned with works by Henry Moore, Marc Chagall, Joan Miró, Jean Dubuffet, and Pablo Picasso. Family-friendly recreation options include parks with fountains, performance venues, and the world’s largest indoor aquarium.
Entertainment and Attractions
Skyscrapers are the main attraction of the city, which pioneered its own distinctive high-rise architectural style. Since the 1880s, after a massive fire destroyed everything around it, Chicago has grown steadily and currently holds the title of the tallest city in the world. This can be seen for yourself by ascending to the observation deck on the 94th floor of the Willis Tower, Chicago’s record-breaking 443.2-meter skyscraper.
On the left bank are the two famous “corn cobs” of Marina City. Trump Tower, Chicago’s second-tallest skyscraper and featured in the film “Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon,” is clearly visible from almost anywhere along the river.
The 87-story Aqua Tower, with its unique curved façade, resembling a giant ice colossus with streams of water flowing over it, is considered the city’s most beautiful skyscraper.
Grant Park, nestled between a fenced-in skyscraper and Lake Michigan, is a pleasant place for strolls and family recreation.
Millennium Park is home to some of the most futuristic structures of the 21st century. The park’s main sculpture and the new symbol of Chicago is the “Cloud Gate,” a three-story structure resembling a giant drop of mercury suspended in midair, its shiny surface reflecting the skyscrapers and people below.
