Chicago: City Attractions

Everyone knows it as a city of gangsters and jazz, but what really is Chicago (Illinois)? The sights of the city will be told for themselves.

"City of winds"

Chicago is located on the shores of Lake Michigan in the north of Illinois and on the banks of the rivers Chicago and Calumet. The city is a major industrial center and the largest transport hub of the United States. By the number of inhabitants it is the third city in the United States. It has about three million people.

For the first time the colonists visited these lands in 1674, having founded the first missionary post. At the beginning of the XIX century a small settlement of 350 people was formed here. In 1837 the settlement received the status of a city, with a population of more than 4 thousand people. The name Chicago received from the Indian name of garlic (shikaakwa), which grew on the banks of the local river.

It is often called the "city of winds", giving this phrase a poetic meaning. It is believed that for the first time this phrase was dubbed by the editor of the newspaper New-York Sun, and not from romantic feelings, but because of empty promises of manipulative politicians. Although in Chicago there are really strong winds, thanks to which this phrase is firmly entrenched outside the city.

Chicago: attractions, photo

The first thing you need to see in Chicago is the skyscrapers. Willis Tower is the tallest building in the US. It has 110 floors and 442 meters in height, except for antennas on the roof. The viewing platform of the building is located at 412-meter height and is equipped with a transparent floor so that nothing interferes with viewing.

Beautiful panoramic views can also be seen from the center of John Hancock, 100 stories high, from the tower of Marina City and the Aeon Building, but that's not all that can surprise Chicago. The sights of the city are just beginning. Having descended from the observation deck and rolled on a tourist boat along the river, huge skyscrapers can be assessed quite from the other side.

"Magnificent Mile" is what you need after the excursions of Chicago. Attractions of the city are interesting, but no less fascinating are boutiques and shops located on the "Magnificent Mile". There are more than 200 different restaurants here, where you will definitely prepare a Deep Pizza.

Museums and architecture

Modern buildings and boutiques are not all sides of Chicago. The sights of this city are represented by interesting museums and architectural finesses. For example, the Cathedral of Ion Cantius, built in 1893, which is an expressive example of the Polish style.

Temple Medina - not a place for prayer, but a building of a furniture store that repeats the architectural features of the Islamic style (decorative ornaments, domes and bars). It was built in 1913 for meetings of the Arab noble order, which is often associated with the Masons.

The Historical Museum is the oldest museum in the city. The expositions present the entire history of the state of Illinois and Chicago. The Chicago cultural center is worth a visit even because of its appearance. The center is decorated with bronze, mahogany, carved cornices and mosaic. Here there are various exhibitions, film screenings, dance evenings and scientific meetings.

Entertainment

All kinds of water and air performances are held at Navi Pirs. This is one of the most famous places in Chicago. The attractions of Navi Pierce are more likely for children, although adults also have fun. In Navi Pierce there are various cafes, restaurants and attractions. Children's Museum will be pleased with an unusual collection, the Museum of Stained Glasses contains stained glass windows of various periods.

On the shore of Lake Michigan is Millennium Park, which houses the most recognizable landmark of the city - "Cloud Gate". However, the local often call this sculpture a bean because of its shape.

In the park there are other bizarre statues and sculptures, for example pillars with holographic images and fountains at the top. There are numerous alleys, pavilions and green areas.

Conclusion

Attractions of Chicago satisfy any tastes, here and architectural beauty and the highest skyscrapers, and green parks, interesting museums, as well as boutiques and restaurants. This city will capture in the dizzying rhythm of modernity and style and will certainly remain for a long time in memories.