Chicago is a city of firsts. The city became home to the first planetarium in the world, the first steel framed skyscraper, first elevated train system, and was home to the first commercial airplane flight. The culture of Chicago is unique with jazz clubs and sports teams and events dominating the Chicago landscape.

Sports

Chicago is home to the Chicago Cubs and White Sox who represent the city in the professional baseball world. The Chicago Bulls were six time National Basketball Association champions during the 1990s. The Chicago Bears and Chicago Blackhawks round out some of the most recognizable sports teams in the city as they represent the city in both professional football and hockey, respectively.

Climate

The estimated 2,800,000 people who populate Chicago have to deal with windy conditions that give the city its nickname of the “Windy City.” January is the coldest month in Chicago with an average high of 29 degrees and an average low of 13 degrees. The hottest month in Chicago is July which has an average high of 84 degrees and an average low of 63 degrees.

Education

Families are treated to a wealth of learning experiences as the city is home to such attractions as the Brookfield Zoo, Historic Navy Pier, University of Chicago, University of Illinois-Chicago, DePaul University, and Northwestern University which is considered one of the premier business schools in the entire nation.

Attractions

Not only is Chicago a great place to learn, but also a vibrant city in which to enjoy life as tourists and residents, alike, enjoy such places as Lake Shore Park, Lincoln Park, Grant Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Oriental Theatre. Travelers can stop in one of Chicago’s estimated 7,000 restaurants and enjoy anything from steak to sushi, or even Cajun cuisine. After a bite to eat, tourists can amble along the famous Magnificent Mile, located between the river and Oak Street and features countless retail shops and fine dining options. Another popular landmark is the Sears Tower, which stands 1,454 feet tall. After a long day of trekking Chicago’s streets and landmarks, visitors might stop by and have a drink at Fado Irish Pub. Fado is an authentic Irish pub that once existed in Ireland but was brought, instead, to Chicago and reassembled.