Chicago Traveler

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10 Interesting Facts About Chicago

The Windy City is unique, to say the least. Chicago history showcases well-known facts about Lake Michigan, the Chicago skyline and the booming business industry, but there are many unknown interesting facts about Chicago that need to come to light. If you’re interested in just how unique Chicago is, then keep reading. We have all sorts of interesting tidbits about Chicago for you.

Did you know?

  • Chicago’s namesake translates to the Native American word striped skunk. Interestingly enough, a fun fact about Chicago is that wild onions that commonly grow near the Chicago River are also deemed striped skunk.
  • Chicago was ahead of the game with the evolution of a railway system. Now known as the “L,” the Chicago railway system dates back to 1892.
  • One of the most popular Chicago desserts, the Twinkie, stemmed from Chicago. Inventor Jimmy Dewar, a Chicago native, created the popular Chicago snack in 1930.
  • Chicago hot dog stands are plentiful and not surprisingly outnumber fast-food restaurants, with more than 2,000 Chicago hot dog stands available throughout the year.
  • Although Chicago hot dog stands are popular, the Windy City was actually the first location of McDonald’s, the popular burger joint. The first Chicago McDonald’s restaurant opened in 1955.
  • In 1893, the first Ferris Wheel was invented in Chicago that was the size of a city bus and stretched more than 264 feet tall. The Chicago Ferris Wheel was erected for the World’s Columbian Exhibition. Now, Navy Pier is home to the famous Chicago Ferris Wheel.
  • Western Avenue in Chicago breaks records as the world’s longest continuous street. Chicago’s Western Avenue runs 23.5 miles through the downtown Chicago area.
  • While walking along the Chicago River, you may notice that it is much different from most rivers in the United States. Why? The Chicago River was reversed in the late 19th century and now flows backwards. The decision was made to empty the Chicago River into the Mississippi River versus Lake Michigan, ultimately explaining why the Chicago River runs backward.

While there are plenty of fun things to do in Chicago, there are also many interesting facts about Chicago that make the Windy City that much more special. As you navigate adventures at Chicago’s attractions, keep in mind that Chicago history and significance is viable and unique. Want to learn more interesting facts about Chicago? Stay tuned and check back often for more tidbits about the Windy City.

Best Winter Attractions in Chicago for Kids

While it’s no secret that the winters in the Windy City can be downright cold and brutal, that doesn’t mean you can’t find plenty of fun things to do with the kids in Chicago. Winter activities in Chicago can range from indoor sightseeing to outdoor fun in the snow. If you’re ready to get the kids out of the house and let them explore Chicago winter attractions, then consider these Chicago hotspots to begin your adventures.

Chicago Children’s Museum

Located conveniently on Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum is a warm place to spend an afternoon and entertain the kids when the temperatures are frigid. This Chicago winter attraction is home to experimentation, creativity and learning for children of all ages. When seeking out fun things to do in Chicago in the winter, treat the kids to a day of exploring science exhibits, crafting centers, dinosaur expeditions, climbing areas and more. Don’t miss out on the storytelling adventures at the Story Hub and the woodworking projects ready for all ages at the Tinkering Lab when visiting this popular Chicago winter attraction for kids.

The Marriott Theater for Young Audiences

Warm up and see your little ones smile when taking in a show at the Marriott Theater for Young Audiences, a popular Chicago winter attraction for kids. From performances, such as “Madagascar,” “The Princess and the Pea” and “Grease,” the lineup at this popular Chicago Theater is designed to keep the kids entertained for hours. Located at 10 Marriott Drive in nearby Lincolnshire, this Chicago Theater is the place to be when it’s too cold to enjoy outdoor Chicago activities.

Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon

Bundle up to enjoy this Chicago winter attraction with the kids. The Maggie Daley Ice Skating Rink opens each year in mid-November typically and offers fun on the ice throughout the winter months. Located in Maggie Daley Park on East Randolph Street, this Chicago ice skating rink gives you and the kids a chance to enjoy a Chicago winter hotspot with views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

Water Tower Place

While little ones do not always get excited about the idea of a Chicago shopping trip, Water Tower Place may change their minds. Get in some retail therapy and let the kids spend their hard-earned allowance money at stores, such as American Girl and Lego outlets. Pick up some handmade chocolates at the specialty stores or splurge on dinner at a Chicago restaurant at Water Tower Place, located on North Michigan Avenue.

Whether you want to treat the kids to shopping in Chicago or twirl around a Chicago ice skating rink, there are plenty of winter activities for kids in Chicago. Make some memories both indoors and outdoors with so many fun things to do in Chicago in the winter. Check back often for even more suggestions of Chicago attractions you won’t want to miss.

Free Things to Do in Chicago During the Winter

Spending time engaging in fun things to do in Chicago doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are plenty of free things to do in Chicago during the winter months. From outdoor adventures to indoor visits to Chicago hotspots and Chicago attractions, you can find plenty of excitement and entertainment in the Windy City. Load up the family or grab that special someone to begin exploring the free things to do in Chicago this winter.

Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center

Take a break from the cold winds of Lake Michigan and soak up Chicago culture at the same time with a stop in at the Chicago Cultural Center. This Chicago attraction features architecture you can admire that includes the world’s largest stained glass Tiffany dome and a breathtaking theater. This Chicago hotspot also hosts art, dance and music events perfect for families. The Chicago Cultural Center is located at 78 East Randolph and is free for all ages.

The Lincoln Park Zoo

Bundle up and enjoy the nostalgia of the Lincoln Park Zoo. This free Chicago winter attraction offers Chicago fall festivals and holiday lights when the weather turns cold so you can get the most out of your visit to this Chicago attraction. There’s plenty of fun and free things to do in Chicago at the Lincoln Park Zoo when you’re surrounded by birds, lions, apes and sloths. Head to this Chicago hotspot during the winter months and you can even ice skate or participate in the zoo workshops available. The Lincoln Park Zoo is located at 2001 North Clark Street.

Smart Museum of Art

Energize your brain muscles and explore the University of Chicago’s Smart Museum of Art. Free and open to the public, this Chicago museum offers art exhibitions showcasing contemporary, modern, European and Asian artwork, as well as short-term exhibitions during the winter months. Sign up for one of the featured programs for families, kids and adults at this popular Chicago museum, located on the University of Chicago campus at 5550 South Greenwood Avenue.

Millennium Park

Although it’s a bit chilly during Chicago winters, there’s no better time to get outdoors and ice skate. Chicago’s Millennium Park is home to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink that is free to the public. You do, though, have to bring your own ice skates or rent them at the park. This free Chicago winter activity is perfect for all ages and gives you a great view of the Chicago Bean and the Chicago skyline while whirling around the rink.

Finding free things to do in Chicago in the winter is not hard at all. In fact, the Windy City is home to both indoor and outdoor Chicago attractions you can explore all year long. From free ice skating rinks in Chicago to free museums in Chicago, take the opportunity to see the best of the city’s culture and entertainment options. Check back often for even more fun things to do in Chicago.

Fun Facts About Chicago

Often dubbed as The Windy City, the Second City or even the City of Big Shoulders, Chicago is a mecca for entertainment, culture and outdoor attractions. Chicago is also full of historical significance and has homegrown celebrities who call the Second City their first love. Are you interested in learning more about Chicago’s history or even random facts that make this city special? Keep reading. Even if you think you know just about everything there is to know about the Windy City, you may be surprised to learn of these Chicago fun facts.

Lakefronts and Beaches to Brag About

Chicago Fun Fact: Chicago, the third-largest city in the U.S. is home to 25 beaches and 26 miles of lakefront.

It’s no doubt that Chicago outdoor attractions deliver fun in the sun and even more fun in the snow with Chicago winter activities, but did you know that the plentiful parks and beaches are expansive in the Windy City? Head over to Millennium Park to see the bean or relax in the sun at one of the Chicago beaches or Chicago parks.

More Views Than You Can Imagine

Chicago Fun Fact: From the top of Willis Tower, you can see four states from the Skydeck, including Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, and of course, Illinois.

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, Willis Tower is home to the Skydeck where you can see aerial views of the Chicago skyline and more. As one of the most fun things to do in Chicago, this adventure is something you won’t want to miss when visiting Chicago.

A Crafty, Artsy City in the Making

Chicago Fun Fact: The Art Institute of Chicago features one of the largest collections of Post-Impressionist and Impressionist paintings, only to be outdone by Paris.

It’s no secret that the Windy City is home to Chicago museums that are stunning on the inside and out. But, did you know that the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the elite institutes in the world? Located on South Michigan Avenue, in the heart of downtown, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most renowned Chicago attractions.

We’ve Got Dinosaurs

Chicago Fun Fact: As the owner of the most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton in the world, lovingly named Sue, the Field Museum has history in the making.

The Field Museum, located on South Lake Shore, is a popular Chicago indoor attraction, but it is also a historic Chicago hotspot you must visit. Beyond eyeing the beauty of Sue, the most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton, you can also find entertainment for all ages at this Chicago museum featuring traveling exhibitions and indoor and outdoor Chicago activities.

While it may be common knowledge that Chicago attractions are hard to beat, these Chicago fun facts may be just what you need to know to impress your fellow Chicagoans or tourists. Check back often for even more Chicago fun facts.

Top St. Patrick’s Day Activities in Chicago

If you and the family aren’t sure what to do on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, you are in luck. The windy city offers a variety of festivals, parades, sights to see and local Chicago attractions. Whether you feel lucky for the day or just want to know how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style, check out these exciting Chicago events planned specifically for this special March holiday.

Watch the St. Patrick’s Day Parade

See love for all things green up close and personal when attending Chicago’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Commonly held on the Saturday closest to March 17th, this interactive parade heads down Columbus Drive from Balbo Drive and then all the way to Monroe Street. If you don’t know how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, this is the way to do it. The parade features more than 100 floats, bands, dancing troupes and more and is one of the most anticipated Chicago events in the city.

See the Green River

One of the most unique traditions in Chicago is the dyeing of the Chicago river. You won’t want to miss this Chicago St. Patrick’s Day event. While you can look up close and personal along the canal streets, you can also head over to the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier or head up the Skydeck for an aerial view of this green masterpiece.

Take Part in the St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Offering fun for all ages, the St. Patrick’s Day Festival at the Irish American Heritage Center is a popular Chicago event each year. The festival includes entertainment for kids and adults alike and features performances from Irish dancers, opportunities to make St. Patrick’s Day crafts and plenty of green brews and authentic food to divulge in with friends and family.

Do the Shamrock Shuffle

Put on your running shoes and enjoy the brisk Chicago weather when spending your St. Patrick’s Day at the Shamrock Shuffle. This 8k run, a popular Chicago event, kicks off the running season for many. Sponsored by Bank of America, this Chicago St. Patrick’s Day event features not just a run, but also an after-party complete with prizes, medals and green beer.

Sample Brews on the St. Paddy’s Pub Crawl

Find Chicago’s treasured pubs and find a sea of green beer when signing up for the St. Paddy’s Pub Crawl. Beginning at Lucky Strike Social at Wrigleyville on the Saturday before the big holiday, this special event takes you to the best bars in town with top-rated drink specials. As one of the most anticipated Chicago St. Patrick’s Day events, this pub crawl comes complete with a map to help with navigation throughout the day.

You don’t have to be Irish to know how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. You just have to be ready for lucky adventures when navigating Chicago St. Patrick’s Day events. See green and wear green when venturing to these hotspots known for some of the most fun things to do in Chicago. Check back often for even more holiday activities.