Question 1

What is there to do in Chicago?

Accepted Answer

Wander Millennium Park and "The Bean," take an architecture river cruise (the city's signature experience), visit the Art Institute and the Museum Campus (Field, Shedd, Adler), go up Willis Tower's Skydeck or 360 Chicago, stroll the Magnificent Mile and lakefront, catch a Cubs or White Sox game, and eat deep-dish pizza and a Chicago dog.

Question 2

How do I get from the airports to downtown Chicago?

Accepted Answer

From O'Hare (ORD), the CTA Blue Line "L" train runs to downtown in about 45 minutes for around $5; from Midway (MDW), the Orange Line takes about 25 minutes. Both are cheaper and often faster than a $40–60 rideshare in traffic. The trains run frequently, including late — a great car-free option.

Question 3

Do I need a car in Chicago?

Accepted Answer

No — Chicago has one of the best transit systems in the US (the "L" trains and buses), very walkable neighborhoods, and rideshare everywhere. A car is usually a hassle with traffic and expensive parking. Skip the rental unless you're day-tripping out of the city.

Question 4

Is Chicago safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the areas visitors frequent (the Loop, Magnificent Mile, River North, lakefront, museum campus, popular neighborhoods) are busy and safe with normal city awareness. Like any big city, some areas are best avoided, mostly well away from tourist zones; use standard care at night and on the "L," and watch your belongings. Emergency number: 911.

Question 5

What is the best way to see Chicago's architecture?

Accepted Answer

An architecture boat cruise on the Chicago River is the classic, highly-rated way — guides explain the skyline as you glide beneath it. Add the Willis Tower Skydeck or 360 Chicago's tilting "Tilt," a walk across the river bridges, and the Loop for a city that basically invented the skyscraper.

Question 6

When is the best time to visit Chicago?

Accepted Answer

Summer (June–August) for lakefront festivals, patios, beaches and baseball — the city's liveliest season — and September–October for crisp weather and fewer crowds. Winters are cold, snowy and windy but magical around the holidays. Spring is pleasant and greening. Summer and early fall are the sweet spot.

Question 7

What is deep-dish pizza and where do I get it?

Accepted Answer

Chicago's famous thick, buttery-crusted pizza baked in a deep pan with cheese under a top layer of chunky tomato sauce — a knife-and-fork affair. Classic spots include Lou Malnati's, Pizzeria Uno (its claimed birthplace), Giordano's (stuffed style) and Gino's East. Locals also love thin, crispy tavern-style — try both.

Question 8

What are Chicago's best neighborhoods to explore?

Accepted Answer

Beyond the Loop: River North and West Loop (dining and nightlife), Wicker Park/Bucktown (indie shops and bars), Lincoln Park (the zoo, park and lakefront), Pilsen (Mexican culture and murals), Chinatown, and Hyde Park (the university and Obama connections). Each has its own food and character — neighborhood-hopping is the real Chicago.

Question 9

When was Chicago established?

Accepted Answer

Chicago was founded around 1837.

Question 10

What languages do people speak here?

Accepted Answer

English; Spanish is spoken by 40+ million people — dominant in parts of Miami, LA, Texas and the Southwest.

Question 11

What is Chicago known for?

Accepted Answer

Chicago is known as: One of America's great cities — architecture and skyline, deep-dish pizza, world-class museums, blues and jazz, Lake Michigan and pro sports.

Question 12

What is the nearest major airport?

Accepted Answer

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) — about 14 km away.

Question 13

What timezone is it in?

Accepted Answer

Chicago is in the UTC-5 to UTC-10 timezone.

Chicago

Airports near Chicago

Chicago Midway International Airport

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Gary/Chicago International Airport

Michigan City Municipal Airport

Chicago at a Glance

Nearby places to explore

Famous Places Near Chicago

Info about Chicago