Chicago, the Windy City. U.S. Travel

Accustomed to hear of large U.S. cities like New York , Boston, Los Angeles or San Francisco, sometimes you tend to forget about Chicago, a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Michigan . Chicago is an exciting mix of architecture, culture and fun.

The curious origin of the name of this city comes from the Indians Potawatomis , who named it as " She-caw-gu ", which literally means" wild onion ", a plant that grew in abundance in the area and is characterized by a marked bad smell.But without a doubt, Chicago has been able to replace the unpleasant odor of the tulips, which color the main avenues of the city. With the lake, which appears as the sea, the various parks dotted around the city, campus museums and bike lanes, Chicago is a nice city for pedestrians and the lover of the outdoors. Its good transport system also invites to explore the city inside out without car, something we do not have very accustomed American cities.One of the most famous tourist attractions in Chicago is the " loop "that could be considered as the area bounded to the N and O along the Chicago River, the E by Lake Michigan and the Roosevelt Road S. The loop is named for the tram tour that takes the high, which makes a loop connecting its stations with the subway system. From our travel blog travel recommend both the loop and the Magnificent Mile walk quietly, enjoying the ambiance of shopping areas and major business of the United States . Of course, the high tram ride near a check that the environment is quite noisy and may prefer to wander the streets.But without doubt, one of the most surprising to enjoy the brilliant architecture of Chicago is doing it from the water. In the Navy Pier there are numerous agencies that offer a very affordable price a boat trip down the river. Also, visit the guide entertains with endless anecdotes, trivia and interesting facts about each and every one of the most emblematic buildings. Never forget how to turn each bend of the river we were surprised with new buildings that sprang out of nowhere ... a highly recommended experience.It is also essential to visit Millennium Park and its better-known " Cloud Gate ", better known as" The Bean ", possibly the most impressive monument I have ever seen in my life. This stainless steel bean leaves no one indifferent. Without wishing to provide more details, all I can recommend is going to visit with camera in hand and ready to surprise with its infinite reflections.

Chicago museums deserve special mention. The Field Museum (Natural History Museum) is one of the most respected in the world in their field. One can know there Sue , the Tyrannosaurus Rex best preserved and largest in the world.The Museum of Science and Industry and the Planetarium also left us spellbound. The planetarium, the aquarium and the Field Museum are located in the same area, called " Museum Campus ", a pleasant place to stroll and enjoy good views of the skyscrapers of Chicago.

It is also compulsory up to two of the tallest buildings in the city: the Willis Tower (formerly known as Tower Sears ) of 442 meters and 108 floors is the tallest skyscraper in Chicago and has been the world's tallest building since its construction until 1998. It is possible to climb to the ground 103 and a spectacular panoramic view of the city. Its glass floor also allows a stunning view straight down. Tower John Hancock is not so high (344m and 100 floors), but its location can enjoy other equally or more spectacular views than before. We recommend up to the Signature Room (ground 96) to enjoy a drink watching the sunset and watching as the city is full of lights.Another must-see in Chicago is the district of Oak Park , birthplace of Frank Lloyd Wright , one of the most important architects of s. XX, and author of such important works as the Guggenheim Museum in New York. In Oak Park you can visit several houses designed by him and is a very nice trip. Oak Park is easily accessible from downtown Chicago by subway.Finally, note that the story to offer in entertainment is also high. If you're a sports fan, you are in luck in Chicago. For relatively affordable prices may live to see the Chicago Bulls (basketball), the Bears (football), the Blackhawcks (ice hockey) to the Cubs or White Sox (baseball) or Fire (soccer) . Depending on the time of year, you can find some of the sports assets. This range of leisure can be complemented with a wide range of theaters, musicals and other shows