Chicago is a great city for groups to visit — learn why we’re one-of-a-kind with a roundup of fun facts that cover everything from our iconic dining to amazing architecture and hundreds of free festivals held year-round. 77 DIVERSE NEIGHBORHOODS Chicago is home to a variety of international communities and unique neighborhoods that include Northalsted (formerly known as Boystown), the first officially recognized LGBTQ+ neighborhood in the U.S. ICONIC FOODS The city’s must-try foods include deep dish pizza (invented here in 1943 by Ike Sewell at Pizzeria Uno), hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, jibaritos (Puerto Rican fried plantain sandwiches), and the brownie — created at the Palmer House hotel as a new dessert to serve at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. And don’t miss the award-winning dining at more than 75 Michelin-rated restaurants, including the 3-star Alinea. CHICAGO FUN FACTS Chinatown Navy Pier COVER: ALEJANDRO REYES; TOP TO BOTOM: ADAM ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY; RANVESTEL PHOTOGRAPHIC ARCHITECTURE The world’s first skyscraper was designed in Chicago in 1885. The city is home to the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), the second-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Nearby Oak Park is a treasure trove of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, including the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. Wright’s Unity Temple in Oak Park and his Robie House in Hyde Park are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Jeanne Gang’s new downtown tower — The St. Regis Chicago — is the tallest structure in the world designed by a woman. TWO SCENIC WATERFRONTS The stunning Lake Michigan waterfront offers 24 free beaches, biking along the 18-mile (29 km) Lakefront Trail, and Navy Pier. The Chicago River is home to the fun Chicago Riverwalk and the free Art on theMART, the largest permanent digital art installation in the world. 1
Chicago Travel Professionals Guide 2023: Page 1
