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Convention Capital…Presidential City…That’s Chicago!

Fast Company magazine named Chicago the U.S. City of the Year 2008. What makes it stand out? Chicago’s economy is growing faster than New York’s or Los Angeles’; its ranking as the “convention capital of the United States” may have something to do with that. The city is also at the forefront of innovative environmental policy (Chicago is a pioneer in urban greening), politics (it’s home to President-elect Barack Obama), architecture (Santiago Calatrava is redefining the form of the American skyscraper with his Chicago Spire) and music (house music was born here; countless jazz stars have called Chicago home).

Convenience and Culture Bring Chicago to Life

Convenience
Chicago is one of the most accessible cities in the world. With two major international airports and an expansive public transportation system, Chicago has the resources to get you where you need to go, when you need to get there. O'Hare International and Midway International Airports offer 3,500 flights a day. Included among those flights are direct non-stops to 60 international and 154 domestic business centers—more than any other city in the world. And more than 50 different airlines service the area, helping make flights in and out of Chicago less expensive than most major U.S. cities.

Once in Chicago, reliable transportation is readily available, whether taxicabs, limousines, public transportation or rental cars are preferred. Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers fast, direct train service from both airports to downtown, convenient bus and train lines to major attractions, simple fare cards, easy-to-use maps and brochures and custom trip planning for groups. You can also plan your trip online!


Culture
Have a culinary adventure. Voted Best Restaurant City in America, Chicago’s widely diverse neighborhoods serve up great meals and feature more five-star restaurants than any other U.S. city. Indulge in Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza, discover new flavors in funky fusion lounges, or sample cuisine from around the world. Chicago has something for everyone’s tastes.

Check out Chicago’s theatre scene. See a show at one of the city’s celebrated theater companies such as The Goodman Theater, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Shakespeare Theater, Looking Glass Theatre and The Second City—all world renowned for their exciting productions. Smaller neighborhood theatres also offer unique entertainment offerings.

Shop and then shop some more. The Magnificent Mile offers hundreds of top retailers including four separate shopping centers. Oak Street is known for its upscale boutiques and specialty gift stores. State Street, conveniently located in the center of the city, provides a unique blend of department stores and discount chains. Lincoln Park’s Armitage Avenue and Wicker Park/Bucktown are two other popular shopping areas.

Experience nature. Chicago is one of the most green and naturally beautiful cities in the country, with hundreds of parks, miles of lakefront and bike paths, world-class conservatories and bird and wildlife gardens. Take the time to enjoy the natural side of Chicago and to appreciate this city’s pioneering spirit when it comes sustainable and environmentally-friendly urban living.


Visit the Chicago Convention and Tourism Board’s (CCTB) website for more information and to sign up for group tours of the Chicago area. On the Scene Chicago can also help you with your travel and sightseeing plans.

Have a successful business trip and a memorable stay in Chicago!