Oh Chicago, you left us memories to last for a lifetime.
Chicago is an extraordinary city full of diversity and breathtaking views. Right next to the huge lake of Michigan, the arrival by plane in the city is already really impressive. The city is H-U-G-E. It's easy to spot the city center right next to the lake (as big as the city is) with it's impressive towers which from the sky look already massive. And if you are european as we are you also be surprised how "organized" the city looks from above. Only straight lines drawing a geometrical landscape, which gives a feeling of power I think.
Tips & Advices
If you arrive by plane, it is very easy to reach the city center from the airport thanks to the subway by taking the blue line. Fees are very accessible (around 2,50$) and it takes approximately 50mins.
Chicago belongs to the "walkable" cities in the states (when you are restricting your visit to the city center), so you don't need to systematically take the transport, don't be afraid of walking it doesn't require that much of time and the walk is always nice. BUT you should at least take once the "L" which is the elevated subway serving the Loop (the heart of the city). The views from it are very enjoyable and it allows you to realize how big and tall is the city.
Be careful which time of the year you go. Chicago has extreme weather temperature (winter and summer), so be sure to pack the adequate outfits before you go. The tall buildings strenghten the wind which make you freeze during cold period, so when it's cold, it's really cold.
Don't forget your passport when you go out! Like every city in the states no entries to bars without IDs. And they're not joking about it, it would be a shame if you couldn't get your well deserved drink after a long day just because of that, so have it always on you!
Explore Millenium Park very early or very late to avoid the crowd and get better pictures. We didn't find the time to do it and we regret it!
People in Chicago are very nice, so don't hesitate to talk with them to get to know their city even better!
What not to miss
Willis Tower - Skydeck
Yes it is a little expensive (22$ for an adult, no special fees) but it's the price to almost touch the sky. The elevator of the tower takes you to the 104th floor. Yes, ladies & gentlemen, that high. But it's not the only thing, you can also get a chance to "fly" above the city. They have made a glass boxes that allow you to stand on a glass floor at 412meter high. Vertiginous I tell you, but a unique experience really!
Millenium Park
Stuck between the skyline of Chicago and the lake Michigan, Millenium Park offers amazing views and a very nice walk. Wake up early to get chance to have the sunrise reflecting in the bean scuplture in the middle of the park. The scuplture that makes the park famous and crowded!
Navy Pier
A nice walk into the lake Michigan with a fantastic view over the lake and the skyline which is really not to miss especially if you have a bright sunny day like we had! Plenty of activities directly on the pier if you want to ;)
