Sweet home Chicago. A city filled with creativity, wonder, mystery and the fast tempo of bustling businesses. The Windy City will always be the king of cities in the Midwest. If you need anymore convincing, here's why.
1. The food
Chicago has seriously some of the best dining in the country. If you're in the mood for some good old hotdogs and burgers, Portillos has you covered. Or, maybe you're into something a little fancier like Ditka's. Dessert, anyone? Hit up Mandy B's in Lincoln Park for some fantastic cookies, cakes, whatever your heart desires. Any and all food you may crave, Chicago has it. You'll never experience a better place to taste test than this city.
2. The nightlife
Whatever age group you are, there's a variety of places to go. If you're in college like me, head down to Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park or the West Loop to find some great places to dance the night away or just enjoy the company of friends. The collection of breweries, bars and clubs are all at your fingertips should you want to reach out and grab them. The list is endless and you'll never run out of options of where to go.
3. The sightseeing
Famous for it's incredible architecture, Chicago can wow with it's splendor of unique buildings and high rises. Take an architecture boat tour down the Chicago River and check out some of the most famous buildings around. Not in the mood to look at unique buildings? Then check out some of Chicago's famous museums and attractions. The Field Museum always has different exhibits to explore. The Shedd Aquarium always has spectacular aquatic life to see and will allow you to experience child-like giddiness again. Maybe you're not into history or fish. Chicago's Art Institute has classics that you can admire for hours. And you can't forget good old Navy Pier or Millennium Park where the Bean resides. With so many great options, you'll never feel bored.
4. The shopping
Any store you could want or need, the Windy City provides. The famous Magnificent Mile is any shopaholics dream, filled with favorites like Forever 21, H & M, TopShop, Nordstrom, Macy's and couture shops like Burberry, Gucci and Prada. If you're feeling vintage, head up to the northern part of the city to find unique little shops filled with items you can't find anywhere else.
5. The people
Chicagoans are happy people. We're polite, hardworking and always ready to have a good time. You'll never find a group of people more thrilled to live in a city.
6. The entertainment
Go see a Broadway show at the Chicago Theatre to experience theater like never before. Blue Man Group is always a good show and available. Or check out Second City, Chicago's famous comedy shows where comedians like Tina Fey, Seth Meyers and Amy Poehler began their careers. In the mood for some live music? The House of Blues, Lincoln Hall and the Riviera Theatre are great places to look.
7. The lifestyle
Chicago offers a different neighborhood for any type of person. Working as a young professional? Find an apartment in the West Loop or Lincoln Park area. Or maybe you're looking for the sweet life. One of the prestigious neighborhoods in Chicago is the Gold Coast, where you can find fine dining and high end shops right around the corner.
8. The outdoors
Head to Oak Street or North Shore beach and feel the Lake Michigan sand beneath your toes. You can have a relaxing day laying out or play a competitive game of beach volleyball. Along the beach are miles of walking paths from the lakeshore where you can view Lake Michigan's beauty. Walk through Lincoln Park Zoo (it's free!) and see the various amount of wild animals living there. Just because it's the city doesn't mean you can't experience the great outdoors.
9. The businesses
If you're ready to work your way up to the top, Chicago is the best place to start. With a plethora of companies or small business that you can work for, you can find your perfect place to work. You'll find that working in this city will open doors for you and your future.
10. The sports
Chicago has some of the best sporting venues around. The Chicago Cubs won the World Series in 2016, and Wrigley Field is iconic. Catch a game and see for yourself the magic Wrigley has. Make your way toward the suburbs to catch a Chicago Blackhawks game. The fun pace of hockey and the vibe of the United Center will get you immersed in the game. Go watch some football with the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field and expose yourself to true Chicago loyalty.
Chicago will continue to be one of the best cities in the world. It's a fantastic place to visit and an even better place to live. So, what are you waiting for?