Chicago: Oceanfront Property... Almost?
Ah, Chicago. City of wind, deep dish pizza, and... a burning question that's plagued tourists for decades: is it actually on the ocean?
Fear not, dear traveler, for we shall embark on a hilarious journey to uncover the truth, separating salty sea breeze from lacustrine mist (fancy word for big ol' lake).
Great Lakes: Not Quite the Salty Seas
Chicago hugs the shores of mighty Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes. Now, these lakes are enormous, containing a staggering amount of water. But here's the key difference between a lake and an ocean: ocean water is salty, like your grandma's favorite sayings, while lake water is more like that time you accidentally cried in the pool. Not quite the same beach experience, would you say?
So, How Far From the Ocean is Chicago?
Okay, okay, enough suspense. If you're dreaming of building sandcastles and wrestling waves, you'll need to travel a bit further. The closest ocean to Chicago is the Atlantic Ocean, clocking in at around 800 miles (1287 km) away. That's a bit of a trek for a quick dip.
Landlocked? Not Exactly!
But hold on a sec! Chicago might not be on the ocean, but it does have some pretty amazing beaches along Lake Michigan. Think soft sand, volleyball courts, and epic views of the Chicago skyline. Plus, you can skip the whole "saltwater taffy sticking to your swimsuit" situation.
The Final Splashdown
So, there you have it. Chicago isn't exactly an oceanfront paradise, but it offers a darn good lakeside substitute. And hey, if you're ever craving the real deal, a road trip or a quick flight can get you there in no time. Now, who's up for some deep dish pizza to celebrate this geographical knowledge bomb?
