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Chicago – the windy city. The heart and soul of Midwest America and the third largest city in the United States, Chicago sits proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan and is a city which wears its endeavours and traditions with pride. From the recognisable architecture and skyline to the soulful numbers that breathe life into the city streets, Chicago is very much the heart of America.

Ever since its days as a strategic port and economic trading hub, Chicago has been a life-source to modern America and the influence of the immigrating cultures that settled there in the 19th and 20th centuries can still be enjoyed today, from the thriving art scene to superb world cuisine. In fact, visitors today arriving at O’Hare Airport will notice how international the mix is, as it’s the world’s 2nd busiest airport.

With strong and enduring seasons and an affinity with nature, Chicago isn’t short of outdoor lovers. More than 500 parks, gardens, beaches and the great Chicago River, which flows a celebratory green every St Patrick’s Day, sit within the city’s perimeter, and Lake Michigan provides miles of lake-front water sports and attractions. Lincoln Park is Chicago’s largest park and is popular for its free zoo. Founded in 1867 from an initial gift of just a pair of swans, the zoo now homes everything from lions and penguins to birds of prey and beavers.

Following the river down to the lake, you’ll find the vast Navy Pier on the banks. Stretching for over a kilometre into the lake, this 20th century cargo pier is now a traditional ’seaside’ fun park, with rides, attractions and more to entertain tourists and Chicagoans alike, and is now the city’s number one attraction.

Dominating the skyline, the famous Sears Tower looks out over downtown Chicago and was once the tallest building in the world. Up on the 103rd floor , ‘The Ledge’ has been created as part of the Sears Tower Skydeck; a clear shelve of glass suspended above the minuscule streets below – only for the fearless. Equally towering and just as famous throughout Chicago is the John Hancock Observatory. One of the most famous buildings in the world, built in the structural impressionist style, this iconic skyscraper was named after the historic Patriot of the American Revolution. Nearby, there are many renowned Chicago hotels and restaurants to be found further downtown.

As Chicago has grown, so have the many districts and quarters that give the city its multicultural atmosphere. On the city’s South Side sits the Chinatown neighbourhood, which is home to many Chinese stores, restaurants and murals, as well as the tranquil Ping tom Memorial Park. To explore the whole of the city in comfort, get a hop-on, hop-off ticket for the Chicago Trolley Tours, which take you via the city’s must-see sights with an entertaining commentary throughout.