Chicago, on Lake Michigan in Illinois, is among the largest cities in the U.S.

Chicago is one of the most prestigious cities in the world in terms of recreation and entertainment.

Chicago was recently named “U.S. City of the Year” for its thriving economy, impressive architecture, notable politicians, groundbreaking music, and innovative environmental policies.

Famed for its bold architecture, it has a skyline bristling with skyscrapers such as the iconic John Hancock Center, sleek, 1,451-ft. Willis Tower and neo-Gothic Tribune Tower.

Entertainment and the Arts

The city is also known for its world-class museums, including the Art Institute and its expansive collections, including noted Impressionist works.

Renowned Chicago theater companies include the Goodman Theater in the Loop; the Steppenwolf Theater Company and Victory Gardens Theater in Lincoln Park; and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) performs at Symphony Center and is recognized as one of the best orchestras in the world. Other live music genres which are part of the city’s cultural heritage include Chicago blues, Chicago soul, jazz, and gospel.

The Joffrey Ballet and Chicago Festival Ballet perform in various venues, including the Harris Theater in Millennium Park. Chicago has several other contemporary and jazz dance troupes, such as the Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and Chicago Dance Crash.

Restaurant Scene

Chicago features many restaurants that highlight the city’s various ethnic neighborhoods, including Chinatown on the South Side, Greek town on Halsted Street, and Little Italy on Taylor Street and the Heart of Italy. The Indo-Pak community along Devon Avenue hosts many Pakistani and Indian eateries. The predominantly Mexican neighborhoods of Pilsen and Little Village are home to numerous eateries ranging from small taquerías to full-scale restaurants. Several restaurants featuring Middle Eastern fare can be found along Lawrence Avenue, while Polish cuisine is well represented along Milwaukee Avenue on the Northwest side and Archer Avenue on the Southwest side. A large concentration of Vietnamese restaurants can be found in the Argyle Street district in Uptown.

Some Interesting Facts about Chicago:

• Chicago is home to 70 museums, 200 theaters, 6,500 restaurants and 200 annual parades.
• Three of the world’s tallest buildings are located in Chicago: Sears/Willis Tower, AON Center, and John Hancock Center.
• The title of “The Windy City” was bestowed on Chicago in 1893 by New York Sun editor Charles Dana. He was tired of listening to long-winded politicians boast about the World’s Fair that was held in Chicago the same year.
• Chicago currently has 2,701,926 residents in its 228 square miles.
• More than 33 million people visit Chicago each year.

Loyola University Chicago –

A beautiful campus with spectacular views of Lake Michigan. Loyola University Chicago’s Lakeshore Campus is located in the heart of Roger’s Park, on the Northside of Chicago.

Founded in 1870 by the Jesuits, today Loyola is one of the largest Catholic universities in the nation and a major contributor to Chicago’s economic and cultural capital. Loyola’s professional schools have educated generations of local business and civic leaders, and distinguished programs in medicine, nursing, and health sciences are anchored by the nationally-recognized Loyola University Medical Center.

Loyola and its students enjoy Chicago’s exceptional cultural and economic resources. In addition to providing an unparalleled setting for educational opportunities. A hub of commerce and culture, Chicago serves as an expanded campus for Loyola students.

Of course, there is Frank Sinatra singing…

“Chicago, Chicago, that toddlin’ town

Chicago, Chicago, I will show you around, I love it Bet your bottom dollar you’ll lose the blues in Chicago Chicago, the town that Billy Sunday couldn’t shut down

On State Street, that great street, I just want to say They do things they don’t do on Broadway They have the time, the time of their life I saw a man, and he danced with his wife In Chicago, Chicago, that’s my hometown”