I recently visited Chicago for the first time. The times I was stranded and delayed at Chicago O’Hare airport do not count as a visit to Chicago. So I finally made a trip into the Windy City!
Yes, it was truly windy, but that’s not why they call “the second city” of Chicago, the windy city. Do you know why Chicago inherited this name? Well, let me try to retell what I learned from my tour guide. Way back in the 1800’s, the politicians were all a “bunch of windbags”. What’s a wind bag, you ask? It’s someone who’s “full-of-hot-air” and a braggart. It’s someone full of nonsense and that’s how the politicians were depicted back in the day. I’m sure there’s an even lengthier reason as to why Chicago is known as the Windy City but you get the gist, right? Haha!
Chicago is also known as the second city and not because it was second in population rankings to New York City, but because of the intense competition with New York as to the choice location of the World’s Fair in 1893. Chicago obviously won this battle and hosted the World’s Fair. Another reason why it’s called the second city is because of the great Chicago Fire in 1871. The fire burned down the entire city and then when the city was rebuilt and reconstructed (this time not rebuilt with wood) Chicago became a second city; a newer and better city. Do you think I learned a lot about Chicago? I sure did!
True fact: Chicago is actually the 3rd largest city in the United States. Go figure! Ha!
Now that you know a little bit about the history of Chicago, I’m going to share with you my 10 favorite hot spots and activities.
1. Take an architectural and historical cruise on a Chicago Line Cruise.
2. Check out Wrigley Field and watch a Cubs game.
3. Visit the Art Institute Museum.
4. Hang out in Millennium Park.
5. Eat at Sunda’s Restaurant.
6. Have drinks atop the John Hancock Building on the 94th floor.
7. Stay at the Park Hyatt Hotel.
8. Shop on Madison Avenue.
9. Take a boat ride on Lake Michigan.
10. Meet some of the friendliest people who live in this city!
Chicago is truly an incredible place to visit and I’m not being a windbag! If you’d like help planning a trip, Just Ask!
