Chicago’s Famous Skyline

It’s time for another “Inside Tidbit I Learned By Working Around People Who Know.”

Now this particular insider’s travel note is really just one man’s opinion, and I can’t actually tell you if I agree. (I need more firsthand experience for comparison). But not long after I started writing about fun and exciting attractions for cities around the country, including Chicago educational student tours, I heard this statement made, “Chicago’s skyline is actually better than New York City’s.” Gasp.

I mean, that’s what I did on the inside when someone suggested it was even remotely possible that there was a better skyline than the one I dreamed most of seeing. Then I got to know Chicago a little more, and I understood why perhaps the statement had been made. First of all, we midwesterners are proud of Chicago. No matter how amazing the New York City skyline is, this one is here. We’re not known for a lot around here, and being able to claim The Windy City with its fabulous buildings, parks, food, and museums – that’s something we don’t take lightly.

Chicago is known world-wide for its progressive architecture. It holds one of the world’s tallest buildings, some of the first in the art-deco movement, and many other unique and dramatic design choices in its buildings. The architectural cruises along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River describe in detail the history and wonder of Chicago’s amazing buildings while giving you the prettiest view of them – from the water.

A walk along the Magnificent Mile is another popular way to tour Chicago’s favorite sites. Michigan Avenue got its significant name from the many amazing things to see and do along it, as well as its breathtaking skyline. Famous buildings you’ll find there and in the rest of Chicago include Willis Tower (formerly Sears but still one of the world’s tallest buildings), Trump Towers, the Historic Water Tower, the State Building (glass all the way around including the ceiling!), the museum complex in Grant Park, the John Hancock building, and many, many more.

So you see? Chicago has a ton of claim to fame – and I haven’t even mentioned the pizza and cheesecake. And on top of the beautiful architectural design, famous observation decks, gorgeous parks, and fun attractions like Navy Pier (which I also didn’t mention), Chicago offers the spirit of the midwest. The warm hospitality you’ll find on country roads in the rural midwest may be slightly dressed up and a smidge cooler in the Windy City, but it’s there all the same. And, believe me, there’s nothing like it.

Photo by stephenhanafin at Flickr.