Routes Americas 2023
Chicago, Illinois
• 21 – 23 March 2023
Destination Guide
The Chicago Promise
Voted the Best Big City in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler for six years in a row (2017-2022), Chicago offers more than you can ever imagine and more than you could ever do. A visit to Chicago will be an enjoyable and enlightening experience.
The Chicago Experience
Inclusive and Welcoming Community
Chicago is one of the most inclusive cities in the world. We’re home to vibrant multicultural neighbourhoods, diverse LGBTQ+ communities (including the oldest official LGBTQ+ neighbourhood in the country), accessible attractions, sensory-friendly experiences, and a welcoming Midwest spirit that ensures everyone feels right at home.
77 Diverse Neighbourhoods
Chicago is a city of neighbourhoods. We’re home to more than 77 of them, each with its own unique vibe, restaurants, boutiques, museums, and friendly locals. You can explore them all, from global cuisine in West Ridge, to colourful street art in Humboldt Park, to fascinating African-American history in Bronzeville.
Acclaimed Dining Scene
As the official home of the James Beard Awards, Chicago is known for its award-winning dining scene that is as diverse as the city itself. You’ll find something for every palate, from fine-dining tasting menus to classic Chicago eats, to globally inspired cuisine in our international neighbourhoods. Here’s a taste of Chicago’s most essential and eclectic eats
Rich Cultural Scene
From live theatre to world-class museums, Chicago offers a wealth of cultural offerings. For the theatre lover, there’s the legendary improv of The Second City and the popular plays of Broadway in Chicago. If you want to enjoy great music, you can hear the famous sounds of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra or check out live Chicago blues at Kingston Mines. And be sure to visit one of Chicago’s many notable museums where you can meet the world’s largest dinosaur, step inside a whirling tornado or admire Impressionist masterpieces.
Beautiful Waterfronts And Green Spaces
Chicago is the “city in a garden”, which means you’ll find green spaces and outdoor activities around every corner. You can walk the Lakefront Trail, take a boat cruise on the Chicago River, kayak alongside our scenic skyline, or have a picnic in one of our neighbourhood parks. And don’t forget to snap a selfie at “The Bean” in iconic Millennium Park.
Awe-Inspiring Architecture
Wherever you go in Chicago, you’re surrounded by architectural marvels and iconic landmarks. We’re home to the world’s first skyscrapers, a treasure trove of Frank Lloyd Wright wonders (including a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Pullman National Monument, and plenty of stunning works in our neighbourhoods and historic districts.
Unmatched Connectivity
Conveniently situated in the centre of the country, Chicago boasts two first-class airports — allowing visitors to travel from almost anywhere. In 2021, Chicago O’Hare and Midway International Airports together handled more than 69.9 million passengers, and those numbers continue to grow as travel rebounds