Getting out of the city isn't something Chicagoans like to do often, but when they do, they often think about the things they miss. From delicious food to features that offer convenience, these are 10 things people miss whenever they are not in Chicago.
It's great to branch out and see more parts of the state than just the city, but you'll probably be missing some familiar sights. Check it out:
1. Food.
From pizza to Italian beef to popcorn, the food in Chicago is on point. In fact, it's what comes to mind first for many when they think about our great city.
Click here for 15 foods everyone misses when they leave Chicago.
2. Local beer.
Chicagoans can be snobs when it comes to beer brands because we prefer to drink local. It's fresher that way, and with so many brew houses in the city, it's not hard to find beer in and around all of Chicagoland.
3. Food festivals.
Things people miss most about summer in the city are the festivals. Chicago loves food so much, we hold events throughout the year to celebrate it, and Taste of Chicago is the biggest one.
4. Music festivals.
Possibly more popular than the food fests are Chicago's music festivals like Lollapalooza, Riot Fest, and Spring Awakening. They also include food, so it's a two-in-one to visit these if you've moved away.
5. The views.
There's nothing more beautiful than the Chicago skyline. The architecture throughout the city is mind-blowing, be it a historical building or a shiny modern one. Seeing them in person is like coming home.
6. Being near O'Hare.
If you've moved away from Chicago all together, you may realize your first mistake was putting so much distance between you and the busiest airport in the Midwest. It's easy to fly anywhere in the country or the world from here.
7. Public transportation.
Another convenience of the city that people miss when they leave is being able to get around without a car. Buses and trains, especially, are not available in every town and city in America, so we are lucky here.
8. Graffiti.
One of the things people miss most about going for a walk is the street art. Of course, there is plenty of commissioned art in the city, but no graffiti artists decorate a street like they do in the Windy City.
9. Sports.
Especially if you've lived in Chicago your whole life, sports are probably a big part of your Chicago experience. Whether you root for the White Sox, the Cubs, the Blackhawks, the Bears, the Bulls, or any other team, you're bound to miss being part of the hub-bub when they win a game.
10. Seeing the Chicago River dyed green.
If you're not in the city over St. Patrick's Day weekend, you're going to miss out on this annual event that locals absolutely love. Each year, the river is dyed green to correspond with the holiday, attracting half the city to watch it happen.
11. Lake Michigan.
One of the best things about Chicago is that it is right on one of the Great Lakes. It affords us beaches, swimming and fishing opportunities, as well as incredible views that make Chicago look like a tropical city.
If you are planning on moving away for good, check out these 12 most amazing Chicago attractions before you go.
Can you name more things people miss about Chicago when they leave? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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