The Burning Question (Besides the Deep Dish): How Many Feet in a Chicago Block?
Ah, Chicago. City of wind, brutal winters, and some of the most architecturally stunning buildings this side of the Mississippi. But there's a question that's been plaguing explorers since before the Great Fire: just how big are those darn blocks?
Fear not, intrepid adventurer! We're here to crack the code on Chicago's blocky brilliance.
The Not-So-Secret Society of Standard Sized Blocks
Now, unlike New York where a block can be the size of a postage stamp or a marathon (depending on where you are), Chicago leans towards a more, shall we say, standardized approach. Most Chicago blocks follow a neat and tidy rectangle, with a long side of around 660 feet and a shorter side of roughly 330 feet.
Why so neat? Well, Chicago's famous grid system, laid out in 1833, is to blame (or thank, depending on your navigational skills). This grid, designed by some urban planning geniuses (or maybe bored surveyors with a penchant for rulers), makes getting around a breeze. Eight of these 660-foot long blocks (or 16 of the shorter 330-footers) will whisker you away a cool one mile.
But wait! Isn't Chicago a bustling metropolis, a sprawling giant? Indeed it is! And that's where things get interesting.
The Loophole Clause: When Chicago Throws You a Curveball (Literally)
Downtown Chicago, also known as the Loop, is where things get a little less rectangular and a little more "what were they thinking?". The streets here take on a more diagonal approach, creating triangular or even pentagonal blocks that are a far cry from our beloved rectangle.
These little rebels tend to be a bit shorter on the side, clocking in at around 400 feet by 400 feet. Don't worry, though, these quirky blocks are mostly contained within the Loop, so if you're exploring the charming neighborhoods outside downtown, you can rely on your trusty 660-foot friend.
So, How Many Feet in a Block? The Big Reveal!
Here's the truth, folks: it depends! But in most cases, you're looking at a 660-foot long block for your Chicago explorations. Just remember, the Loop likes to keep things exciting, so keep your eyes peeled for those blocky surprises.
Now that you're armed with this crucial knowledge, you can confidently navigate the Windy City, impressing your friends with your newfound block expertise. Who knows, you might even be able to win a bar trivia night with this knowledge (though, honestly, who even does bar trivia nights anymore?).
Happy exploring!
