Known as ‘The Windy City', Chicago, Illinois, is renowned for its strong Blues music roots. The biggest city in the Midwest region and the third largest city in America, there's so much to get up to in Chicago so book now and you'll be sightseeing in no time.
Chicago is spilt into 10 distinct areas, so pick the districts that appeal to you. The summer months are glorious, with hot and humid temperatures. If you're visiting in winter then wrap up. December to March is very cold with snow storms and icy winds.
You'll land at the bustling O'Hare International Airport. Costing around $40 in a taxi to the city centre (you'll pay more during rush hour), you can also use the CTA Blue Line direct train, it's faster and much cheaper.
For a luxurious stay, book a room at the art-deco Palmer House, one of the most famous hotels in the city. A good business and budget choice for accommodation is the Congress Plaza Hotel - if you're lucky enough be allocated a room overlooking the lake, you'll have wonderful views of the spectacular Buckingham Fountain.
Start your tour of this city in the Downtown area; it's the hub for entertainment, shopping and tourist attractions. Admire the striking architecture, as the skyline is dominated by the imposing skyscrapers housing the upper echelons of industry. For a day well spent, journey down the Magnificent Mile, starting at the Observatory in the Hancock Centre, then visiting the famous old Water Tower and Pumping Station before heading to the glamorous department stores of Michigan Avenue.
Millennium Park in the summer is wonderful, with its giant projection fountains to paddle in. Home of the striking Cloud Gate (affectionately known as ‘The Bean'), this 100-tonne sculpture is truly stunning. The world famous Art Institute of Chicago is definitely worth a visit and admission is free after 5:30pm on Thursdays.
For the best pizza in Chicago, eat at the wonderfully atmospheric Bella Bacino's at 75 E Wacker Dr. Or, blow the holiday budget on afternoon tea at Russian Tea Time, 77 E Adams St. One of the best Russian restaurants in the world, its innovative and exciting menu must be seen to be believed.
Chicago is an iconic American city surrounded by a wealth of businesses and cultural attractions, such as the old Loop Theater district, Wrigley Field and Chicago Stock Exchange.