Chicago: More Than Just Deep Dish (But Let's Be Honest, That's Pretty Great Too)
Chicago, the Windy City. A place where deep dish pizza is a religion, the architecture is so good it's almost criminal, and the people are as tough as a Chicago winter. If you're planning a trip here, consider yourself lucky. But let's be real, planning a trip can be overwhelming. So, let's cut to the chase: Here's what you absolutely cannot miss in this concrete jungle.
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| What You Should Not Miss In Chicago |
Eat Your Way Through the City
Let's start with the obvious: the food. We know, we know, you've heard of deep dish. But trust us, there's more to Chicago cuisine than just that saucy, cheesy behemoth.
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- Deep Dish vs. Thin Crust: This is a battle as old as time (or at least as old as Pizzeria Uno). Deep dish is the indulgent, cheesy, saucy love child of pizza and casserole. Thin crust is the classic, crispy, New York-style slice. Both are delicious, so don't be afraid to try both.
- Hot Dogs: Chicago hot dogs are a whole different ballpark (pun intended). No ketchup, yellow mustard only, with relish, onions, tomatoes, peppers, celery salt, and a pickle spear. It's a flavor explosion, trust us.
- Italian Beef: This is Chicago's answer to the Philly cheesesteak. Thinly sliced beef, dipped in au jus, piled high on a soft Italian roll. You can get it "wet" (soaked in au jus), "dry" (just a little au jus), or "hot" (with hot giardiniera peppers).
- Garrett Popcorn: Okay, this isn't exactly a meal, but it's a Chicago staple. The original Chicago Mix (caramel and cheese) is addictive, but there are plenty of other flavors to choose from.
Architecture: A Skyscraper Safari
Chicago is a city of stunning architecture. From the Gothic spires of the Tribune Tower to the sleek lines of the Willis Tower, there's something for every taste.
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- Architecture River Cruise: The best way to see the city's skyline is from the water. You'll learn all about the city's architectural history and get some amazing photo ops.
- Millennium Park: This iconic park is home to Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean"), a giant, shiny sculpture that's perfect for selfies. But there's more to the park than just that - check out the Crown Fountain, a multimedia sculpture with water jets that spit out faces.
Museums and Culture
Chicago has a thriving arts and culture scene. From world-class museums to live theater, there's something for everyone.
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- Art Institute of Chicago: Home to one of the largest and most impressive art collections in the world, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
- Field Museum: This natural history museum is home to Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex ever discovered.
- Shedd Aquarium: Get up close and personal with marine life at this world-renowned aquarium.
Beyond the Loop: Explore the Neighborhoods
While downtown Chicago is amazing, don't miss out on exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods.
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- Wicker Park/Bucktown: This trendy neighborhood is known for its boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Lincoln Park: This family-friendly neighborhood is home to the Lincoln Park Zoo and the stunning Lakefront Trail.
- Pilsen: This vibrant neighborhood is a hub for Mexican culture and art.
How to...
- How to survive a Chicago winter: Layer up, invest in good boots, and embrace the cozy indoor activities.
- How to order a Chicago hot dog: No ketchup, yellow mustard only, with relish, onions, tomatoes, peppers, celery salt, and a pickle spear.
- How to navigate the L: It's easy once you get the hang of it. Just make sure you have the right Ventra card.
- How to find the best deep dish pizza: There are countless contenders, but some popular choices include Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, and Pizzeria Uno.
- How to experience Chicago like a local: Explore the neighborhoods, try the local cuisine, and cheer for the Cubs (or the White Sox, if you dare).
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