We visited Chicago in 2014. The 'Windy City' is the American city of skyscraper architecture par excellence. In the centre, known as the 'Loop', and on the surrounding streets,
skyscrapers from different eras and styles stand side by side. The best view of these buildings is from the water on the Chicago River. We took the 'Chicago's First Lady' boat tour to see them. From the 86th floor of the Hancock Center, we were able to marvel at Chicago from above.
In contrast to the skyscrapers are Chicago's many parks, especially Grant Park, where our Essex Inn Hotel was located. A must-see in the park is the Buckingham Fountain, which is illuminated in the evening against the backdrop of Chicago's glowing skyline. Closer to the city centre is the recently built Millennium Park, whose main attraction is Cloud Gate. Crowds of people can be seen distorted in the curves of this enormous work of art. Chicago has many art sculptures in various locations.
We were particularly impressed by the venerable Art Institute of Chicago and its extensive collection of Impressionist paintings. Other highlights include the Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium, located south of Chicago Harbour. You can elegantly pass by both on your way to Navy Pier by water. Musically speaking, Chicago is synonymous with the blues. Many venues in the 'Blues City' offer live performances in the evening.
Elegant luxury stores can be found on Michigan Avenue, also known as the 'Magnificent Mile', in the north of the city, directly adjacent to Millennium and Grant Parks.
Chicago was both the starting point and the end of our trip around the Great Lakes.
