Welcome To Chicago!

City of Chicago Skyline

When people think of Chicago, their first thoughts are often Al Capone, gangsters, corruption, big servings of heavy foods like deep dish pizza, Da Bears, etc. But, that's just scratching the surface.

Chicago boasts the best schools in the US, especially graduate schools, the most beautiful skyscrapers also with the most historical significance, and some of the best theatre, comedy, and music scenes in the world. 

Many people believe the nickname “The Windy City” means Chicago is a windy place. Although Lake Michigan wind does pierce the city often, and the prolific skyscrapers create wind tunnels, I was always taught The Windy City nickname came from the politicians being full of hot air. Chicago's political contention became a pastime around the 1893 era, when the World's Columbian Exposition was launched on the Lake Michigan shoreline. More on that historic event will be covered later.

Workers in the City of Big Shoulders are what really formed the foundation of the US economy as it is known today. Labor Unions, grain markets, meat packing, and business have been the driving force behind this dynamic city. Along with it came civic leadership that built the glorious Lakefront parks system enjoyed by millions every year, as well as amazing community groups like Ronald McDonald House. 

For an American city of its' size, you won't find nicer, more courteous people. Midwesterners pride themselves on civility. Most of the outlying Chicagoland areas are built on farmland, and those agricultural roots run deep.  This really shows up in the excellent service. Since recently returning, just about every restaurant I've visited has incredible waitstaff. No other city is like this. 

Families are important here, and diversity is rich. You can find any ethnic neighborhood you want, from Polish communities that run 80+ years old, to new hot spots like Little Village. Of course, the food of these cultures are the highlight of the neighborhoods.  

World class museums, opera, restaurants, sports teams, entertainment – experience it all in the Heartland of America's capital: Chicago.