Expan Experience: Touring Chicago, The Windy City

Why is it called "The Windy City" ? What is it about its skyscrapers that draws thousands of travelers to their summits every day? What are the reasons why we should choose Chicago as our next destination ? This Expan Experience will answer these and other questions.

In a new adventure, Cynthia Moya , Sales Supervisor for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean at Expan Tours , shares the details of her recent trip to Chicago , a city she describes as " an incredible destination " and " one that makes a lasting impression ," especially for its architecture , but which is much more than just tall buildings , lakes , rivers , and its signature wind . Discover it .

IPW, the most important tourism fair in the USA.

" I went to participate in IPW , the most important tourism fair in the United States , which brings together exhibitors from all corners of the country, from car rental companies , hotels and state tourism offices , to companies that offer boat tours , motorhome rentals or even Harley-Davidson motorcycles to travel Route 66 , and I ended up discovering a vibrant city , full of history , culture , parks and lakes ."

IPW brought together between 4,000 and 5,000 attendees from all over the world: an ideal professional environment for networking , discovering suppliers , and, of course, learning about new tourism products . But what truly defined this trip was the city itself: Chicago , with its urban energy , architectural contrasts , and cosmopolitan spirit .

After several nights discovering its neighborhoods , walking along its avenues , climbing to its viewpoints , sailing on the Michigan River , exploring museums , parks and beaches , this trip turned into a true immersion in the culture and lifestyle of The Windy City .

Welcome to The Windy City

Chicago is the third largest city in the United States and one of the most interesting to visit. Its nickname, The Windy City , comes not only from the winds that blow off Lake Michigan , but also from 19th-century local politics , famous for " airy " speeches. But without a doubt, the wind is the star: the proximity of the lake and the river creates cool breezes even in summer.

The city rose from the ashes after the Great Fire of 1871 , which destroyed much of the downtown area. Since then, Chicago has become the birthplace of skyscrapers , combining old stone buildings with modern glass towers in an architectural balance that is as harmonious as it is impressive.

" The city center vibrates around the Michigan River , which flows into the lake . North of the river is the vibrant Magnificent Mile area, with shops , hotels , and restaurants . To the south are iconic landmarks such as Millennium Park , the Art Institute of Chicago , and Grant Park . Further south is the Museum Campus , home to some of the most important museums in the country ."

Getting around Chicago is very easy: you can walk around , especially if you stay near the center , but it also has a subway network, buses , and a very good Uber and taxi system.

" It's also a surprisingly family-friendly city: vast parks , museums for all ages , beaches along Lake Michigan , and endless outdoor activities make Chicago a destination that goes far beyond business ."

South of the Michigan River: Millennium Park, art and views

" For the first five nights I stayed at the Fairmont Chicago , a designated fair hotel located south of the river . From there you can walk to places like Millennium Park , home to the famous The Bean (the most photographed steel "bean" in the city) ."

" I also visited the Crown Fountain interactive fountain and the Art Institute of Chicago , a museum with works by Van Gogh , Picasso and Frida Kahlo , considered one of the best in the world ."

One of the most thrilling experiences in Chicago is a visit to the SkyDeck at the Willis Tower , formerly the tallest building in the world . From its 103rd floor, you can see the entire city and up to four neighboring states. Additionally, The Ledge attraction allows you to walk on glass walkways that jut out from the building, creating a unique sensation of vertigo .

" Further south, I visited Grant Park and the imposing Buckingham Fountain , overlooking the lake and the skyscrapers . On Museum Campus , I visited the Field Museum , with its dinosaur skeletons and fascinating collections ."

A little further away is Hyde Park , the university district that houses the renowned University of Chicago and where Barack Obama lived and still owns a home. There you'll find the Museum of Science and Industry , a museum so large it even houses a real submarine . Furthermore, this neighborhood will soon be home to the Obama Presidential Center , a must-see future landmark.

North of the river: Shops, viewpoints and parks

" North of the river is the Magnificent Mile , part of Michigan Avenue , full of shops of all kinds: from luxury brands to popular stores like Marshalls or Primark . There I visited the enormous four-story Starbucks , discovered the Apple store , a huge Nike Store . There's shopping for every budget and every taste ."

Also in the Michigan Avenue area is the 360 Chicago observation deck, located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center , which offers different views than the SkyDeck , including the beaches and the lake . Its TILT attraction, which tilts a glass window over the city, adds extra excitement.

" Further north, Lincoln Park surprised me with its huge free zoo , full of animals and shaded paths . Nearby are urban beaches like North Avenue Beach , with sand, umbrellas, restaurants , and bike paths along Lake Michigan ."

At the mouth of the river is another essential, the Navy Pier , a pier converted into an amusement park , with shops , restaurants , a giant Ferris wheel , children's games and the FlyOver simulator that shows aerial views of Chicago by day and night.

" There I had lunch at Giordano's , trying the famous deep dish pizza , a true symbol of the city ."

Tours and excursions in Chicago

One of the most memorable activities in Chicago was the boat tour on the Michigan River and Lake Michigan , operated by the First Lady company.

" This tour combines history , architecture , and unique skyline views, first sailing through the heart of the city among skyscrapers from all eras and then crossing the lock that balances the water level before emerging onto Lake Michigan , where the view opens up completely and allows you to contemplate the city from a different perspective . Although it is only in English, the beauty of the tour transcends any language ."

Another fun way to see Chicago is through the classic double-decker tour bus , which takes you around both the north and south of the city, with strategic stops at iconic locations such as the SkyDeck , the Museum Campus and other key points .

" Between journeys, I enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk , a pedestrian walkway by the river , car-free and full of bars , restaurants and open-air spaces , where locals and tourists mingle in a relaxed atmosphere ."

The urban beaches along Lake Michigan were also a pleasant surprise: " I spent time at North Avenue Beach , where the sand stretches alongside the crystal-clear water of the lake and the horizon blends into the sky , giving the impression of being in front of the open sea . From there, I walked several kilometers along the shore , watching hundreds of people jogging, cycling , or simply reading in the sun ."

Tips and recommendations for traveling to Chicago

In terms of accommodation , the key is to stay near the river , both north and south , as this allows you to walk to most of the tourist attractions .

" Personally, I recommend the Magnificent Mile area: in addition to having many shops and restaurants , it maintains more activity at night , unlike the south side of the river , which tends to get quieter after 10 pm ."

If you choose the Riu Plaza Chicago hotel, going up to its rooftop is a must. It not only offers great food and drinks , but also a small glass observation deck that allows you to see the city from a different perspective —something that has become almost a hallmark of the Windy City .

Don't miss the chance to visit one of the observation decks , such as SkyDeck or 360 Chicago , or a rooftop bar to admire the city lights at sunset . And for shopping enthusiasts, Chicago offers everything from luxury boutiques with brands like Bulgari to discount stores like Marshalls or Primark , primarily located along Michigan Avenue .

Public transportation in Chicago works very well, with subways and buses that quickly connect different neighborhoods , but getting around with Uber is also very convenient. If you decide to take a taxi , make sure they use the meter : " I noticed that some drivers charge higher fares when they don't. And don't forget to always include tips , a typical custom in the United States , both in taxis and in restaurants and hotels ."

When to go to Chicago and for how long

Planning a trip to Chicago requires paying attention to certain details to make the most of it. The best time to visit the city is between May and October , when the weather allows you to enjoy its parks , beaches , and outdoor activities .

" Even so, even in summer , the wind can surprise you, so it's a good idea to bring a windbreaker and clothes for different temperatures : from hot days that invite you to wear a t-shirt and sandals , to cooler days when a light coat is appreciated ."

" I recommend dedicating at least five nights to exploring the city at a good pace, without rushing, enjoying its museums , parks, and neighborhoods . If you're traveling from far away, consider combining Chicago with another city like New York to make the most of your trip. Before you go, find out about free summer events and festivals , which often fill parks and plazas with music and culture . "

" Chicago has that charm of a great American metropolis that surprises, welcomes, and leaves you wanting to return. A complete, vibrant , and perfect destination ."

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