To add to the list of cities to visit on your American adventure, Chicago.
It is a city full if amazing architecture, beautiful green spaces, and culture - something for everyone. It's also exciting to note that, because of the cities location next to Lake Michigan, the city is home to some beautiful sandy beaches - who'd have thought it?
The city is home to some world famous artworks, including pieces by artists such as Picasso. However the cities most famous art installation has to be 'Cloud Gate' by Anish Kapoor. Situated in Millennium Park, the artwork is mostly recognised by a different name, the 'Chicago Bean'. The iconic sculptures draws in thousands of tourists every year as they come to revel in its reflective sides and smooth bean shape.
Other artworks include (click on them for more info) -
The city is also home to the Chicago Cultural Centre - a place that regularly puts on performances, workshops and gallery exhibitions. As well as this the Chicago Art Institute is one of the largest and oldest museums in the US, home to around 300,000 pieces of art.
After embracing the cities culture, what better than to indulge in the culinary delights of Chicago. Chicago is most famous for its deep dish pizza. This style can be found right across the city at a large number of restaurants, but we chose to eat ours at Pizano's Pizza and Pasta place. If you choose this venue however be prepared to wait a while for a table/food as it is very popular. It is worth it though as you receive a delicious and filling pizza. We foolishly decided to go to the Cheesecake Factory afterwards for desert even though we were already full, but it is a must if you are travelling around the US - the restaurant offers a large variety of flavour's which are all delicious.
What major sites should you see whilst in the city? Here's my list to ensure that you cover all bases and make the most out of your trip;
1) Millennium Park - Full of artwork, greenery, fountains and outdoor stages, its the perfect place to stroll through on a nice day. It is also where you can find Cloud Gate as mentioned above.
2) Navy Pier - Why not enjoy the sights of Lake Michigan whilst walking along the Navy Pier. Initial named the Municipal Pier when it was built in 1915, it offers a variety of attractions, including a variety of food outlets, Navy Pier Park, the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and Crystal Gardens.
3) The Magnificent Mile - As its name suggests it is pretty magnificent. Its offers a variety of shopping opportunities, as well as being home to beautiful architecture and some of the oldest buildings in the city. You can find the Fourth Presbyterian Church and the Water Tower along Michigan Avenue, in contrast with the modern day architecture of buildings such as the John Hancock Centre.
4) Chicago Lake Front Trail - The combination of cityscape and ocean-like (Lake Michigan as its name state, a Lake) views, perfect on a sunny day. It will give you the opportunity to enjoy some of the cities sandy beaches.
5) John Hancock Centre (360 Chicago) - The Willis Tower may be the most famous skyscraper in Chicago, but the John Hancock Centre offers spectacular 360 degree views of the city and Lake Michigan. From the 94th floor on a clear day you can see across 55 miles and 4 different states. It is also home to a cafe/bar which is free to enter as long as you purchase something.
Chicago is also good for sport with Wrigley Field for Baseball, but unfortunately I couldn't fit in a game on my trip so I can't offer much for recommendations.
There are many other things to see and do in the city, but if you've ticked off these 5 recommendations, you've made the most out of your visit! Not to mention, the first 4 are free!
Please feel free to comment and/or ask any questions.