Media Contact:
Michelle Revuelta
Choose Chicago
mrevuelta@choosechicago.com
(CHICAGO – October 9, 2018) — For the second consecutive year, Condé Nast Traveler’s readers have voted Chicago as the “Best Big City in the U.S.” Retaining the top spot is a testament to Chicago’s rising profile as a leading cultural and culinary destination worthy of travelers’ bucket lists.
Nearly half a million Condé Nast Traveler readers submitted a record-breaking number of responses, making this year’s honor especially noteworthy. This award comes on the heels of Chicago garnering national and international acclaim and buzz for its highly-lauded culinary scene, including Michelin-starred and James Beard award-winning restaurants, in addition to its popular riverfront cruises and newly extended Riverwalk. Add to that the increasing number of hotel options combined with the city’s existing reputation for architecture, world-class live theater and entertainment, and it’s easy to see why travelers from all over the world are drawn to Chicago.
“It is always significant when a leading travel publication and its savvy and knowledgeable readers vote you the number one travel destination in the nation,” said David Whitaker, President & CEO of Choose Chicago. “But to be selected now for a second year in a row – this simply speaks volumes of the kind of city and destination Chicago has become, the kind of experiences discovered here and validation of the overall effort so many in our community are making every day to invite and welcome the world here. It’s quite an accomplishment to be on top – even more special to stay on top.”
“Congratulations to all of our residents who worked to make Chicago the best big city to visit in America. From our award-winning restaurants, to world-renowned cultural institutions and every exciting neighborhood in between, this recognition is as much about their efforts as it is about our strong tourism industry. Together, we’ll continue highlighting all the best our city has to offer, making sure Chicago remains a top tourist destination for years to come,” said City of Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
Launched in 1988, Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers' Choice Awards are billed as the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry and are commonly known as ‘the best of the best of travel.’ Readers offered and ranked their opinions on the world’s best travel experiences. Approximately half a million readers cast their votes for their favorite destination in the U.S.
About Choose Chicago
Choose Chicago is the official destination marketing organization for Chicago, Illinois. Its mission is to bring regional, national and international business and leisure visitors to Chicago for the economic benefit of the city, the community and its membership. For more information, visit www.ChooseChicago.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ChooseChicago.
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