Chicago is the Best!
Author: Angela Hughes
Ms. Hughes is the International Program Manager at Hudson Global Scholars and Head of School for the Providence Country Day School Global Program (PCDGC). She works with schools around the world to ensure successful implementation of diploma programs for students. She resides in the United States and takes great pride in her home city of Chicago!
Chicago (and its suburbs) has something to offer everyone, from its rich diversity to its mouthwatering food. It’s absolutely the best city in the US and I can prove it! Read on to learn the many reasons why my city is the best!
Beaches
Yes, you heard me correctly, beaches! Chicago boasts more than 28 miles of lakefront beaches. There are actually 24 sandy beaches that stretch from Juneway Beach in Rogers Part to Calumet Beach on the East Side. Just make sure you visit in the summer!
Food
Located in the heart of the mid-west, Chicago is known as a “melting pot of culinary traditions.” When you swing through, be sure to grab a slice of deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, a Chicago hot dog at Portillo’s (a signature hot dog served on a poppy seed bun with mustard, onions, relish, tomatoes, pickles, peppers, and celery salt).
Don’t forget to grab a bag of Chicago popcorn (A mix of caramel and cheese popcorn, this sweet-and-salty snack is synonymous with Garrett Popcorn Shops, a Chicago institution)!
Sight Seeing
Have you booked your trip yet? When you do, be sure to check out Millenium Park, and take your selfie in front of Chicago’s iconic Bean statue. It’s located right in front of the ABC television station—so get ready to smile, you might be on TV! Then walk over to Willis Tower and check out the sky deck. You’ll be able to catch the best views in the city. But please don’t ask the natives where to find the Willis Tower. A true Chicagoan will not acknowledge this name and will steadfastly refer to it as its original namesake, the Sears Tower.
If you’re still not convinced, you might want to visit Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Go for a run along the lakefront trail, catch a game at Wrigley Field, go shopping along the Magnificent Mile, or check out the Architectural Boat tour.
And just in case you still don’t believe me …
“Chicago has received several prestigious awards in recent years. Most notably, it was named the "Best Big City in the U.S." for the seventh consecutive year by Condé Nast Traveler readers in 2023. This achievement highlights Chicago’s enduring appeal as a top travel destination, praised for its diverse neighborhoods, world-class dining, cultural institutions, and vibrant arts scene” - Condé Nast Traveler
Students: Did this article convince you to visit Chicago? What about studying there for university? What would you want to do first? What questions do you have about visiting? What’s your favorite city and why?