Chicago: Global Tempo, American Temperament
Chicago epitomizes Midwestern metropolis living. Big city perks and American values come together on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, where a population of nearly three million people live in 77 different community areas on more than 227 square miles of land. Nicknamed the "Windy City" (the origin of which is debated) and recognized as the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago offers a little something for everyone.
This urban jungle in the northeastern corner of Illinois is a city of contradictions — new meets old, large meets small and exciting mingles with relaxing with each block you travel. Enjoy a summer day on the beach along the city's nearly 29 miles of lakefront parks and beaches, or shop 'till you drop on Michigan Avenue's "Magnificent Mile."
See if you really aren't afraid of heights by visiting the observation decks of three of the tallest skyscrapers in the world — the Sears Tower, the Aon Center and the John Hancock Building. Take a Ferris wheel ride and enjoy the twice-weekly fireworks display (running from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend) at Navy Pier, or grab a deep dish pizza at one of many fantastic local eateries scattered throughout the city.
Sports fans, rejoice! Chicago has everything you love, and then some. As the home of the National League's Cubs and American League's White Sox, the city's baseball roots run deep. The Chicago Bears are one of two remaining charter members of the National Football League and have clinched nine NFL league championships in their distinguished history, including a Super Bowl win. The Chicago Bulls are recognized worldwide, having won six NBA titles in eight seasons during the 1990s. Chicago is also home to the WNBA Chicago Sky, the NHL Chicago Blackhawks, the Chicago Fire, Chicago Sting and Chicago Power soccer teams, and hosts the 26.2-mile Chicago Marathon annually.
Home to nearly 20 universities, Chicago is also a hub of academia. Northwestern University, the University of Chicago and the University of Illinois at Chicago all call the Windy City home and have been recognized as top echelon universities by the Carnegie Classification system. The city is also filled with various schools of performing arts, the highest number of seminaries and theological schools in North America, culinary schools and a series of additional public and private institutions of various sizes.
The Chicago "L" system of rapid transit is recognized worldwide. Meanwhile, nine interstate highways run through Chicago and its suburbs. Segments that link to the city center are named after influential politicians, including four former U.S. Presidents.