Anyone who has lived in Chicago for any period of time still calls the place home. True Chicagoans can be found across the globe, but our hearts are in one place. Even President Barack Obama says he will always be a Chicagoan, and (as if you didn't already know), here are 15 reasons why.
We have so much more than gusts of air in the Windy City, and there's always something familiar to do. Keep scrolling for all the reasons we will forever call Chicago home.
Chicago's skyline is expertly designed, and anyone who wants to build a skyscraper has to pass it by the board. It is the world's tallest skyline, hosting half of America's eight tallest buildings, including the Sears (Willis) Tower, which is the fifth tallest skyscraper in the world.
People are often amazed at how clean Chicago is compared to other metro cities. New York smells like sewer and Los Angeles is known for its smog. Here, when you breathe, you get the fresh air off the lake and from the many trees planted throughout the city.
Only the best cities have rivers running through them (think Paris and London), and Chicago's river is the best-of-the-best. It is the only river that runs backwards, and we love to dye it green for St. Patrick's day! You can even take a cruise down this stream and learn all about Chicago architecture.
There aren't many cities in America where you can truly survive in without a car, but Chicago is certainly one of them. From a web of train lines, to busses that go just about everywhere, you can get to work, the store, a play, and dinner without ever worrying about parking.
Since Chicago settles right along Lake Michigan, it gets just as must coastline as cities on the ocean. In fact, we have about 15 miles worth of beaches that locals love to visit. Boating, fishing, and other fun water activities are also enjoyed on the lake.
There are over 550 parks in the city, and two of the most stunning ones sit right next to each other in downtown. Millennium Park and Grant Park are as synonymous with Chicago as hot dogs and baseball. Even locals feel at home when they see Buckingham Fountain and, yes, even the Bean.
In addition to free days for Illinois citizens at many Chicago museums, the city is also home to one of the world's last free zoos. Open 365 days per year, you can see exotic wildlife without paying a penny. Many locals see the Lincoln Park Zoo as an awesome spot to spend leisure time, especially during the holidays when Zoo Lights is on display.
Need we say more? Whether you're in it for the hot dogs, cheeseburgers, Italian beef, cheese fries, or world famous chocolate cake, Portillo's is Chicago's home kitchen. New ones open on a regular basis, and yet drive-thru lines still form around the block for their incredible food.
While we are known for our deep dish varieties, Chicago is actually home to a wide range of pies, making it the pizza capital of the world. Authentic wood-fired, thin crust, deep dish, stuffed - you name it, Chicago's got it. Nothing is more comforting than biting into a Chicago pizza.
Music and food are the main things we celebrate in this city. Concert festivals like Riot Fest and Lollapalooza, as well as tasting events like Chicago Food Truck Fest and Taste of Chicago rule the summer. They often closing down some city streets on the weekends to accommodate the crowds!
Chicago is home to the Cubs, the White Sox, da Bears, da Bulls, and the Black Hawks, giving locals something competitive to enjoy year round. Every true Chicagoan has their own opinion about which teams are best.
Classic summer fun is always found at this charming boardwalk full of restaurants, games, and so much more! Chicagoans know one of the best ways to see the city is from the top of the Ferris Wheel and the pier even shoots fireworks off during the summer.
Chicago is a great place to learn about the history of our city... and the world! Locals of all ages return time and again to the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, The Art Institute, and more for a diverse survey of cultures, histories, and sciences that influence our world.
Nothing greets you to the city better than this underground tunnel connecting United concourses at O'Hare. Rather than a boring hallway, it was spruced up to include intriguing light displays that change color and pattern. If that's not familiar to you, seeing planes flying over head every time you look in the sky certainly is.
Even when you're in the most tourist-populated part of the city (which is often the Bean at Millennium Park), you never feel too cramped or out of place. Chicago is a diverse city with many different kinds of people from all over the world (we have 35 million visitors each year!) who come together to make it a great place to live.
What else about Chicago will always make it feel like home? Share your thoughts and photos with us!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
If you grew up in the city, you've likely experienced a wealth of awkward moments that you could list for days.You're not alone in feeling ashamed or embarrassed when these things happen. From weather woes to general inconveniences, these 11 things that make all Chicagoans uncomfortable are universal for city dwellers. Read on and unite with your neighbors who have been through all these moments too.
It can be really disappointing to try going out to your favorite Chicago restaurant on a Saturday night and discovering that it's all booked up for the night or that you'll have to wait over an hour. Some people are willing to do this, but it can be awkward waiting around a lobby for that long.
2. When people from the suburbs say they are from Chicago.
Most people who live in Chicago will ask which neighborhood a person is from when they say they live in city. If they answer with something like Schaumburg, Evanston, or Naperville... they aren't really from Chicago.
Weather creates so many awkward moments in Chicago. It's wise to check the temperature before heading out, but even then, depending on the wind and if the sun is out or not, 50 degrees can feel like winter or spring.
Conversely, there are those days you go out thinking it won't be too cold and quickly regret not wearing that heavier coat. To avoid this, many keep an extra sweater in their car or backpack.
While many Chicagoans take "dibs" very seriously, there are those who don't care about the hard work someone went through to shovel snow off the road. Nothing is more shameful than coming home to find your street spot taken.
This is especially bothersome when you're on your way to work (which is when it always happens, right?). Some days you can depend on it being late, but there are times when the bus is on schedule.
Whether it's someone asking to use your Ventra card or looking for a couple bucks for coffee, it's always uncomfortable to turn someone away who seems in need. Even if it's just because you don't have any cash on you, it can cause some guilty feelings.
Is anyone moving? When all lanes are stopped or going at the exact same speed, it can seem like you're not getting anywhere. Just don't be that person that drives on the shoulder to get ahead.
This actually creates many awkward moments. For instance, sometimes it storms so bad that they have to cancel part of a day and send people home. It's very difficult to leave a show you paid over $300 to see. On the other hand, it also creates a hazardous (or fun, depending on how you look at it) environment of slippery grass and mud pits.
10. When your street gets shut down for a festival.
Whether it's a block party, music festival, or carnival, Chicago is notorious for shutting down its streets for celebrations, especially during summer. It can be a pain if you are looking for a place to park and have to go a couple streets over, and even more annoying when you simply want to get to your door.
Chicagoans are proud of their state and hate when people say the name wrong. It's bad enough that many people can't pronounce Berwyn, Paulina, and Goethe, but Illinois should be an easy one.
