2012 is a big year for Chicago with the G8 summit heading there in May. With so much to see and experience, it’s one of the must see travel destinations for 2012 and one you can’t afford to miss out on. International flights arrive daily into the city via its two airports: Midway International on the south of the city and O’Hare International on the northwest. No American trip is complete without having sampled life on the open road, so ensure you do your car hire comparison before you travel.
Located on the shore of Lake Michigan in the American Midwest, Chicago is one of America’s most iconic cities. The weather in the city is mostly iconic too, with the four seasons arriving just as you’d expect them too! If you plan a winter trip, it’s well worth packing extra jumpers for warmth against the snow, but if you head over in the summer, ensure you pack the sun-cream.
Lake Michigan dominates the city’s landscape and its sheer size is awe-inspiring. Hit the highways and take a ride out along the Great Lakes Circle tour, which is a dedicated route around the Great Lakes. The lake also provides some beautiful inland beaches which you’ll definitely not want to miss. If you want to stay in the city, then take a boat trip out onto the lake to take in the stunning skyline of Chicago rising high into the sky. Seeing the city from the lake shows off its architectural beauty perfectly and you’ll be able to gaze upon a skyline that includes the two tallest buildings in the United States. If you feel brave, compare the view from the lake to the view from above by travelling to the top of the Willis Tower, formerly Sears Tower, where you can head out onto the observation deck over 1300ft into the sky.
Life lakeside is rather laid back and there is a thriving community located on the lakeside neighbourhoods. Here you can sample some of the finest cuisine in the country, completely varied in taste. In amongst the little villages, you’ll be able to sample Mexican, Greek, Italian, Vietnamese and many more dishes from around the world. If that doesn’t set your world on fire, splash out and enjoy dinner at one of the city’s 23 Michelin starred restaurants, including the three Michelin star restaurant ‘ Alinea’.
Chicago has more than enough to fill your trip with. For the sports fan, any trip must include a visit to watch either the Chicago Bulls or the Chicago White Sox play. If music is more your scene, then the city has much to offer. All around the city, there are jazz and blues bars to relax in whilst you kick back with a glass of Effen Black Cherry Vodka. And if you want to get back to basics, then there’s the Garfield Park Conservatory which has the largest collection of tropical plants in the USA and the Adler Planetarium which will give some insight into gazing at the night’s sky.
Natalie Likness’ love of travel was introduced to her from an early age due to a trip abroad before she was even born! Having close family and making friends across the world, she has continued to travel ever since.
