Visiting Chicago, Illinois—also known as The Windy City— was an experience I’ll never forget. From the moment I arrived, I was instantly amazed by the towering skyscrapers, bustling city streets, and the vibrant energy that defines this northern gem. Part of my excitement came from it being my first time traveling up North, but most of it came from finally seeing a big city in all its glory.
One of my biggest thrills was riding the Chicago subway for the first time. I had always seen it in movies and TV shows, but experiencing it in real life was even better. From the train, I was able to glimpse different neighborhoods before making my way downtown. Once there, I strolled along the Magnificent Mile while admiring the famous Chicago skyline, which was every bit as breathtaking as I had imagined. If you love shopping, downtown is a dream come true. Popular destinations like Macy’s, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and the Banana Republic Factory Store offer something for every style and budget. After hours of browsing through shops, I was more than ready to track down some of the city’s legendary food.
Chicago is world-famous for its food, and no visit is complete without trying the iconic deep-dish pizza. As a pizza fan, I couldn’t resist heading to Giordano’s, one of the city’s most famous restaurants. The rich, cheesy, deep-dish slice lived up to the hype—and then some! For non-pizza lovers, Giordano’s also offers salads, chicken dishes, and Italian beef sandwiches. Another tasty stop was Shake Shack at the Chicago Athletic Association. Between the juicy burgers, crispy fries, and creamy milkshakes—not to mention the gorgeous historic setting—it was the perfect place to refuel before more sightseeing.
No trip to Chicago would be complete without visiting the Navy Pier, one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Originally opened in 1916 as a recreational and shipping hub, it has since transformed into a must-visit destination. With rides like the Centennial Wheel, Cirque du Soleil performances, unique shops, and waterfront dining, Navy Pier is perfect for visitors of all ages. Standing on the pier and gazing out over Lake Michigan was one of the most peaceful and memorable moments of my trip. Another highlight was the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower). Once the tallest building in the world, it still offers some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever experience. Riding the elevator to the top and stepping out onto the Skydeck was both thrilling and unforgettable. From up there, the panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan stretch as far as the eye can see—an absolute must for any visitor.
My visit to Chicago may have been short, but it was packed with unforgettable experiences. From riding the subway and shopping downtown to tasting authentic deep-dish pizza, strolling Navy Pier, and taking in the views from Willis Tower, every moment left a lasting impression.
The Windy City is bursting with history, flavor, and adventure, making it the perfect destination for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re here for the food, the shopping, or the sights, Chicago is a city that never disappoints—and I can’t wait to return to discover even more of what it has to offer.