Chicago
The great city on Lake Michigan
Categories: Chicago Illinois USA
With 2.8 million inhabitants, Chicago is the third largest metropolis in the USA, located in the northeastern part of the state of Illinois. On the southwest shore of Lake Michigan, the city has developed into an important railroad junction on the east-west connection of the United States. The Illinois Waterway connects Chicago to the Gulf of Mexico via the Mississippi River. In addition, there is the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Erie Canal with a connection across the Atlantic to New York. The city name is probably derived from the Indian name for marshland. 
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But Chicago is also known as The Windy City, because skyscrapers channel and amplify the prevailing winds. Nevertheless, the metropolis is not windier than other American cities. Chicago is considered one of the most innovative regions. The largest futures exchange in the USA has its headquarters here.
The city consists of 77 districts. The city center is divided into the Chicago Loop, Near North Side and Near South Side districts. Especially in the city center, the architecture of many buildings is pioneering. The birth of skyscrapers was heralded in 1871 after a major fire.
At present, three of the world's tallest buildings are in Chicago alone. Oak Park has the highest density of buildings designed by the architect Frank Lloyd Wright. This makes the city one of the most popular destinations for architecture lovers. Today's cityscape is characterized by numerous parks that extend along Lake Michigan. Over a length of 50 kilometers, the lakeshore in Chicago features hiking trails, bike paths and sandy beaches. The 10-hectare Millennium Park is a magnet for visitors. Among other things, the park offers musical experiences with its own park orchestra.
Chicago is a place of superlatives. Lake Michigan is considered the fifth largest freshwater lake in the world. 52 million people visited the region in 2015. The metropolis ranks 10th among the most visited cities in the United States. 250 companies have their headquarters in Chicago. In addition, there are 1,500 foreign companies based in the business location. With the options exchange, the city serves another of America's financial sectors. Many residents see Chicago as the cheesecake capital. The Central Station is still considered the largest train station in the world.
Locals offer a free guided tour to guests under Chicago Greeters. A sightseeing boat tour is recommended. Visitors experience the best view from above at Hancock Center. For Barack Obama, Chicago was his professional and private home for 20 years.
The best time to travel is between June and September. Then the daytime temperatures reach an average of 27 degrees. Chicago's cultural events are also most attractive during the summer months, as the city in the Midwest is considered a metropolis of jazz, blues and soul. 
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Hamburg's twin city cultivates an important theatre culture. Among the renowned museums are the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Landmarks and visitor magnets are Navy Pier and Buckingham Fountain with a spectacular show of music, water and light. The charming Holy Name Cathedral is a popular wedding church. Shopping enthusiasts head to the main shopping street Magnificent Mile. In the north of the city, Lincoln Square is a German quarter with appealing restaurants and interesting shops. Chicago is the start and end point of the famous Route 66.
