Chicago Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 3 days

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"The land of skyscrapers"

Chicago Tourism

Third largest city in the United States, Chicago is a metropolitan situated in the state Illinois. Beautified with the outlining freshwater Lake Michigan, the Windy City is known for its diverse and lively neighbourhoods.

With a population of more than 3 million people, Chicago is a city full of life. Be it music, art, comedy, or architecture- the city never fails to disappoint. The high skylines and blue fresh waters of Lake Michigan are the ornamental prides of Chicago. Sandy beaches, distinctive museums, extraordinary parks, diversified neighborhoods, enthralling house music, lip-smacking dishes and upscale shopping are just few of Chicago's treasures. There's a lot to do in this vibrant city, and chances are that you'd want to stay a little longer.

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Exchanging Money in Chicago

You can get your currency exchanged at various banks and exchanges in the city. Although, it is recommended to use ATMs whenever possible to withdraw local currency which are widely available in Chicago.

Daily Budget for Chicago

Daily costs for staying in Chicago including meals, transportation, communication, entertainment, alcohol, tips and some other expenses vary depending upon your preferences. A budget traveler would manage easily with around USD 55 - 60; while mid-ranged travel would cost you something near to USD 140. If you're visiting Chicago for a luxurious experience, you might be required to spend any amount over USD 390.

Religion of Chicago

Out of 60% religious people in Chicago, around 38% of them are Catholics. Other religions followed here are an eastern faith, LDS, Islam, and another Christian faith.

Chicago Customs

Dressing up casually would be fine here. Smoking is strictly prohibited (and punishable), in all public areas. The standard for tipping in Chicago is 15% to 20%. Gratuity is generally added if you're in a group of 5 or more.

Language of Chicago

Most of the people in Chicago commonly use American English to communicate. A portion of the population here also speaks Spanish, English being the second language.

History of Chicago

Before the invasion of European settlers, Chicago was the home to Potawatomi tribe. It was incorporated as a town in 1833. It is known that Chicago is a city built on swamps and mud. Hence, it was indeed achallenging task, but could be accomplished due to vigorous civil engineering projects. Sadly, most of these efforts went in vain when the city turned to ashes in 1871 due to the Great Chicago Fire. But this was just a test Chicago evidently passed, the result of which is the Windy City with buildings touching the skyline, and vibrant neighborhoods to make you feel alive.

Nightlife in Chicago

If you want to bump into some good local breweries and dive bars, Wicker Par, Logan Square and Bucktown are the right places to go to. With exuberant options of bars, pubs, taverns, comedy clubs, night clubs, sports bars and live music, these are the neighborhoods to rush into for the best nightlife experiences: West Town, Old Town and River North.

Shopping in Chicago

Shopping in Chicago is incomplete without checking out 'The Magnificent Mile'. It is a stretch of North Michigan Avenue, where you can find boutique shops, department stores, indoor shopping malls and speciality shops. Other shopping spots in Chicago include State Street, Chicago's Loop, Water Tower Place and Wicker Park & Bucktown.

Currency in Chicago

Being in the States, USD is the only currency used for transactions in Chicago. Most of the restaurants, hotels and shops accept credit cards. If you choose to pay in cash, there are satisfactory number of options for currency exchange.

Best Time to Visit Chicago

How to Reach Chicago

How to Reach Overview

The two major airports in Chicago connect it with rest of the world. Buses and trains can be taken if you are coming from another city in the US.

How to reach Chicago by flight

O'Hare International Airport is the main airport in Chicago, where most of the international airlines land. The other airport is Chicago Midway International Airport, generally for low-cost carriers.

How to reach Chicago by road

You can hire a taxi to visit nearby towns from Chicago. Driving on your own is not advisable.

How to reach Chicago by train

Amtrak provides services to travel to major cities in the US, with a stop at Chicago.

How to reach Chicago by bus

Buses can be taken to reach cities around Chicago. A number of companies offer buses to different cities and the stop in Chicago varies from one company to another.

Local transport in Chicago

The best way to get around is using "L" (the subway system in Chicago). Other than that, you can take a bus, taxi or Divvy share bike to cover distances. You can ride in a Metro Rail if you're planning to make your way to Chicago Suburbs.

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FAQs on Chicago

What are the top hotels in Chicago?

There are 722 in Chicago which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Chicago are Chicago Guest House on Lakewood Avenue, Chicago Guest House on Newport, Chicago Guest House on Henderson Street, Sonder — 943 Crosby — Quaint 2BR, Sonder - West Division, Architectural 3BR Penthouse in Loop. You can see all the hotels in Chicago here

What is the best time to visit Chicago?

The most popular time, weather-wise, to visit Chicago spans through April and June when the spring season makes its entry after a chilling winter season. Another popular time to visit Chicago is between September and November when the fall season is at its peak, and the temperature is perfect for outdoor activities. During these times of the year, you will also find a plethora of cultural events and local festivals in the city. In general, summertime (from June to August) is more popular among tourists to visit Chicago than winters (November to March). However, the boarding and lodging rates can be very steep in the summertime, and tourists may find great discounts on hotels during the winter season.
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What is the local food in Chicago?

The most important culinary specialities in Chicago are 'Chicago's deep dish pizza' and the 'Chicago hot dog'. The best way to look out for a nice place to eat a pizza here is asking a local to identify the local favorite places; or try these popular deep dish pizza hubs: Pizzeria UNO & DUE, Lou Malnati's, Gino's East, and Giordana's. Crowned as the perfect hot dog, this Chicago-style delicacy can easily take over your full meal. A proper establishment to eat this all-beef hot dog is Vienna Beef Factory deli. However, if you get your hunger call while in downtown, head to Portillo's.
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What is the best way to reach Chicago?

The two major airports in Chicago connect it with rest of the world. Buses and trains can be taken if you are coming from another city in the US.
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What are the places near Chicago?

The top places near to Chicago are New york city which is 1144 km from Chicago, Las vegas which is located 2448 km from Chicago, Los angeles which is located 2804 km from Chicago, San diego which is located 2787 km from Chicago, San francisco which is located 2985 km from Chicago

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