Feel like a toddlin’ getaway? Try Chicago, where you’ll find every diversion from one of the country’s best amusement parks to a relaxing lakeside beach. You’ll also find a music culture that’s next to none, as well as an amazing history to soak up while you’re there. There is so much to do in Chicago you’ll have to make several trips just to touch the surface. There really is something for everyone in Chicago.

A Brief History of Chicago

A lot of the attractions in and around Chicago are either historical or are steeped in the results of historical events. The metropolitan area straddles Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, and contains over nine million people. Also called the Windy City and Chi-Town, it’s original name was a pronunciation of the Native American word for onion field, "Chigagou."

After its founding in 1833, Chicago grew rapidly, and became one of the areas most important cities by the turn of the 20th century. Rail companies and other important transportation and cargo businesses thought so as well, and the economy grew with the population and influence. Many immigrants settled in this new, promising world, bringing a large number of cultural backgrounds with them.

Even with the Great Chicago Fire (1871), labor unrest, gangsters during prohibition, and race/class uprisings, Chicago survived adversities and continued to grow. It has been the site of some of the world’s tallest buildings, and recent urban renewal has made the largest city in the Midwest United States sparkle.

What to Do In Chicago

The Arts
Like many major metropolitan areas, Chicago has a rich culture. The performing arts are big there, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is known as one of the world’s finest. If you’re an arts fan, here are some other offers Chicago boasts:

Lyric Opera of Chicago
Joffrey Bellet
Chicago Opera Theater
Chicago Chamber Musicians
Many world-recognized dance troupes
Music of the Baroque

Don’t like classical music? How about jazz? Chicago has one of the richest blues and jazz cultures in the U.S and the world. Gospel and soul are also huge in Chicago. If your vacation is in its planning stages right now, try to go during one of the many summer music festivals. You won’t be disappointed.

If you like the fine arts, you’re also in luck. The Museum Campus is a park that surrounds the city’s three major museums. You can visit the Field Museum of Naturla History, The Adler Planetarium, and the Shedd Aquarium all on the campus. Nearby is the museum of the Art Institute if Chicago, and a short drive away is the Museum of Science and Industry.

There are also many exhibits of art and artifacts from archaeological digs, and many current history museums as well.

Sports
Sports fans will always have something to do in Chicago. Take a look at this list of major teams:

Baseball-- Cubs and White Sox

Football-- Bears
Basketball--Bulls (men’s) and Sky (women’s)
Hockey--Blackhawks
Soccer--Fire
Arena Football--Rush

Conventions
If you’re planning a convention, look to Chicago. Centrally located in the U.S., it has many convention centers, and with all the activity and attractions, it’s perfect for corporate entertainment packages. Chicago boasts some of the world’s finest restaurants and accommodations, as well as educational centers.

Amusement and Entertainment

Here is a list of some of the other attractions in Chicago that interest everyone from music lovers to sports fans.

ESPN Zone
This is a place where you can eat, watch sports in the Screening Room, and participate in interactive sports as well. You can use simulators for boxing, golf, hockey, and more.

The Amazing Chicago Funhouse Maze
This is a navigator’s nightmare! One of my favorite experiences in Chicago, this tunnel-and mirror maze has an amazing collection of visuals from Chicago, compelte with sound effects and lighting.

Lambs Farm
This farm is actually to the north of the city in Libertyville, and is a non-profit farm that helps the disabled gain independence. Grown from a Chicago pet shop, this beautiful campus services over 200 developmentally disabled people by helping them lead full lives. You can go to the farmyard to pet some of the animals, take a train ride, play games, and have a great meal. Open in summer only.

Comedy
There are numerous--and famous--comedy clubs in Chicago. Check any local newspaper, the internet, or activity guides at your hotel for dates and times of your favorite comedians.

Chicago Ghost Investigations
If you know what ectoplasm is, or want to, go on an investigation of some of the local haunted places in Chicago. You will use the latest equipment to detect activity, and learn psychic techniques for communicating in the world of the paranormal.

Six Flags Great America
With some of the best rides in the Midwest, as well as a water park and other entertainment, Six Flags is a great family getaway. Plan to spend the day there, but take plenty of sunscreen and drink lots of water--I learned the hard way!

Parades, Festivals, and Celebrations

There is almost always some kind of celebration going on in Chicago. You can find parades at any time of year, and lost of music and arts festivals as well. Summer is a great time for outdoor arts festivals. Check with your hotel for the local schedules and transportation to and from the celebrations.

Safety in Chicago

Remember that Chicago is a large metropolitan area and crime is to be expected. Be sure to travel smart and light, and don’t leave your car unlocked or belongings inside of it. Most hotels are equipped with a safe these days in all cities, so put it to good use.

Also make sure you travel in the safer areas. Don’t invite trouble where there isn’t any--use traveler’s common sense and you will have a safe and happy Chicago vacation.