Moving to Chicago

Chicago Bean sculpture

Chicago Bean by Sergey Gabdurakhmanov (CC BY 2.0)

Chicago may be the Windy City, but there’s more to Chicago than just a strong breeze. This city is America’s hub for architecture, culture and comedy. If you’re moving to Chicago any time soon, make sure to check out why Chi-city is one of the most iconic cities in the nation.

Moving to Chicago: Beauty in the Details

Chicago - Chicago RIver panorama
Diversey Harbor Chicago (IL) September 2014 by Ron Cogswell (CC BY 2.0)

Chicago is a city renowned for its influential architecture and originality. The city isn’t just buildings like the Willis Tower and the Leo Burnett Building. You can get to know all of Chicago’s skyline on the Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise. Tour guides will introduce you to more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River, and explain how the city grew from a small outpost to a major international city.

You can also visit the Chicago Model, the world’s largest 3D model of the city. The model is updated annually, adding in new buildings and taking out demolished ones, as needed.

Moving to Chicago: More than Skyscrapers

Chicago - Lincoln Park-003 by chascarper (CC BY 2.0)
Lincoln Park-003 by chascarper (CC BY 2.0)

Farmers Markets in Chicago are a cherished part of the city. Roll by Lincoln Park every Saturday to check out fresh fruits and veggies from over 50 farmers and vendors. While you shop for food, you can also check out free cooking demos taught by local chefs. Watch them and experience local Chicago flavor in your own home! The Lincoln Park Farmers Market is only open from May to October, so make sure to check it out before winter sets in.

Bike trails! You may have seen our post on bike trails in LA, but Chicago’s bike trails have a beauty all their own. View Lake Michigan from the seat of a bicycle as your zoom across the city. Points of interest along the trail include Lincoln Park Zoo, the Museum of Science and Industry and Belmont Harbor. Don’t have a bike? The city has a bike-sharing program called Divvy, and offers both daily and yearly passes.

Don’t forget to check out the food, either! Chicago is home to some of the best deep dish pizza ever, and has been named the best pizza city in the US. New York, eat your heart out!

Moving to Chicago: Tickling Your Funny Bone

Jason Manford comedy masterclas by University of Salford (CC BY 2.0)
Jason Manford comedy masterclas by University of Salford (CC BY 2.0)

Chicago is home to The Second City, birthplace of countless famous comedians, and where many SNL cast members see their start. Their irreverent brand of humor showcases political and social issues, as well as the monotony of everyday life. It also happens to be the perfect starting point to delve into Chicago’s unique comedy scene.

Want to become an official comedian? Chicago offers multiple courses in standup and improvisational techniques. Workshops available are for both kids and adults alike, so bring the whole family!

Have you ever lived in the Windy City or wanted to live there? Let me know in the comments section!