Routes Americas 2023

The route development forum for the Americas

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.

chicago skyline

The Chicago Experience

chicago inclusivity

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.

chicago neighbour

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.

chicago dining

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

chicago culture

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.

chicago riverwalk

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.

chicago architecture

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.

chicago connect

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