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Chicago City and Buckingham fountain at sunset in Chicago, Illinois
Chicago's Buckingham fountain at sunset in Grant Park

Big City in the U.S. 2024

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We’re thrilled to announce that Chicago is once again the Best Big City in the U.S. — and we want you to come celebrate with us.

Learn more about the city that Condé Nast Traveler readers have chosen for a historic eighth year in a row and start discovering your very own Chicago style.

Discover Your Chicago Style

There’s only one right way to do Chicago — your own way. Start exploring and find your very own Chicago style.

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Dive Into Vibrant Chicago Neighborhoods

Chicago is a tapestry of neighborhoods, each filled with its own character, history, and things to do and see.


Little Village
Home to one of the country’s largest Mexican American communities, with plenty of colorful culture and cuisine.

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Pullman and Roseland
The city’s first National Monument is a must-see experience for history and architecture buffs.

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Humboldt Park
Immerse yourself in colorful murals, authentic cuisine, and Puerto Rican culture.

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Bronzeville
Explore a living monument to African American history and culture in the city’s “Black Metropolis.”

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Uptown
This historic enclave is known for dynamic nightlife, LGBTQ history, and a thriving cultural corridor.

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Plan your trip

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Expedia

What makes Chicago the Best Big City?

The only way to truly know the nation’s Best Big City is to experience it all for yourself. Come explore what makes Chicago the a city unlike any other.

Vibrant neighborhoods

Chicago is home to a rich tapestry of more than 77 unique community areas, each with its own distinct vibe, restaurants, boutiques, and friendly locals. Discover something new around every corner, from global cuisine in West Ridge to colorful murals in Humboldt Park to landmark Black history in Bronzeville.

Explore Chicago neighborhoods

Thrilling theatre

There’s nowhere else on earth like Chicago’s dynamic theatre scene, with our cutting-edge storefront theatres, the latest Broadway hits, iconic improv, and everything in between. Grab your tickets to see a world premiere at a historic venue, comedy stars at legendary clubs, and innovative productions from acclaimed ensembles.

Explore Chicago theatre

Historic architecture

As the birthplace of the skyscraper, Chicago has built a lasting architectural legacy. Our stunning skyline is one of the most iconic in the world, with modern marvels and historic landmarks. Be wowed by a treasure trove of Frank Lloyd Wright wonders (including a UNESCO World Heritage Site), scenic architecture cruises, the Pullman National Monument, and beyond.

Explore Chicago architecture

Acclaimed dining

Chicago’s award-winning dining scene is as diverse as the city itself. We’re home to the prestigious James Beard Awards ceremony, along with 69 Michelin-awarded restaurants. Get a bite of everything from classic Chicago eats (like deep dish pizza or an authentic jibarito) to global cuisine in our international neighborhoods to bucket-list dining experiences.

Explore Chicago dining

Chicago-born music

Chicago-style jazz. Amplified blues. House music. These are just a few of the genres with deep Chicago roots. Our city has always been the proud home of genre-defining artists, bucket-list music festivals, famed stages, and our own undefinable big-city sound. Come hear it all for yourself.

Explore Chicago music and nightlife

WORLD-RENOWNED Museums

With more than 60 museums, there are endless worlds to discover in Chicago. Travel through space at the Adler Planetarium, uncover ancient Egyptian mysteries at the Field Museum, admire masterpieces at the Art Institute of Chicago, or step inside a tornado at the Museum of Science and Industry. You’ll also find cultural heritage museums, contemporary galleries, and so much more.

Explore Chicago museums

Exhilarating sports

Chicago’s sports legacy is known around the world. Nothing compares to our beloved teams, famous athletes, and devoted fan base. Catch a game in one of our legendary stadiums — including the country’s second oldest ballpark and the United Center where Michael Jordan dominated — and experience the unmatched electricity of Chicago sports.

Explore Chicago sports

A Chicago style welcome

Chicago has a way of making everyone feel at home, from our global communities to our welcoming locals.

Accessibility in Chicago

Chicago wouldn’t be the country’s Best Big City without the resources, programs, and people that make it inclusive and accessible for everyone.

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