Why Consider Moving to Illinois?
1. City's Attractions
If you are passionate about architecture and modern cities, you’re in luck. Chicago’s skyline is one of the best in the United States. You can take an architectural tour by boat, kayak through the Chicago River, or admire it from above on one of the helicopter tours.
2. Theatre
Chicago is famous for its dramatic arts, including theater, musicals, and comedy. Second City comedy club, theater, and school have been its most emblematic spaces for around 50 years. It is especially known for its improvisation theater, a favorite activity for locals.
3. Have a Picnic in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion
With an abundance of music festivals, concerts, and cultural events, this part of the city is ideal for having a picnic with friends and family. Bring some snacks, drinks, and a blanket to enjoy your day out.
4. Restaurants
Chicago offers a variety of over 5,000 restaurants, some owned by the most renowned chefs in the world. The fusion of flavors you can experience will keep you busy if you’re a foodie. Enjoy the best Italian, Taiwanese, French cuisine, and much more. Currently, more than 25 restaurants have been awarded Michelin stars.
5. Relax in Wicker Park
One of the most attractive neighborhoods in the city, Wicker Park offers an authentic experience away from heavy tourism. Hang out in the park, go on a shopping spree at Milwaukee Avenue, walk or bike the Bloomingdales Trail, and more.
6. Speakeasy
During the Prohibition era (1920-1932), speakeasies were establishments that illegally sold alcohol and required secret passwords for entry. Over the years, many have remained operational, becoming a fundamental part of Chicago’s nightlife. Some of the most emblematic ones are The Green Mill, a jazz club opened in 1907 and frequented by Al Capone, and The Violet Hour, where cell phones are not allowed.
7. City of Sport Lovers
Chicago is a sports lover’s paradise, with teams like the Blackhawks for hockey, the Chicago Cubs and White Sox for baseball, the Chicago Bears for American football, and, of course, the Chicago Bulls for basketball. Whether you attend a game at a stadium or watch at one of the many bars, supporting Chicago teams is a thrilling experience.
8. Explore Chinatown
Chicago’s Chinatown is home to around 65,000 residents, making it one of the most notable Chinatowns in the United States. Located near the South Side, it offers several specialty restaurants such as MingHin Cuisine or Lao Sze Chuan.
9. Garfield Park Conservatory
During icy days in Chicago, nothing beats a little escape to this warm and tropical world, featuring thousands of extravagant plants divided into eight sections. Best of all, it’s totally free.
10. Attend 2nd Fridays Gallery Night
For art lovers, the “2nd Fridays Gallery Night” event is held every second Friday of the month. You can visit over thirty creative spaces in the Arts District for free (South Halsted and 18th Street), meet the artists, and immerse yourself in that exclusive environment
Frequently Asked Question About Living in Chicago
How much do you need to live in Chicago?
The cost of living in Chicago is between 1,950 and 2,150 dollars a month. Living here is about 16% more expensive compared to any another city in the state of Illinois.
Is rent in Chicago Expensive?
You can find a 1 bdr apartment in downtown Chicago for $1,500-$2,500. If you are looking to save money on rent you can always look at cheaper options in suburbs of Chicago.
Where to get vintage shopping done in Chicago?
You can go shopping in Andersonville. This area is famous for its vintage clothing and antiques, as well as for its bars. For shopping, there are stores like Brownstone Antiques, Andersonville Antiques, Rad Vintage, and Brimfield.
What is the best attraction in Chicago?
Cycle the Lakeshore Path is one of Chicago’s biggest attractions. It is an 18-mile road, with Lake Michigan on one side and beautiful green areas on the other. It is the most popular summer destination in the city and can be explored on foot, on roller skates, or by bicycle.
Along the promenade, there are several beaches, gardens, recreation areas, and sports fields, as well as attractions such as the Lincoln Zoo, Grant Park, Navy Pier and Theater on the Lake. You can also deviate a bit and tour the nearby neighborhoods, such as E Edgewater, Uptown, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, South Loop, Bronzeville, and Hyde Park.