Visit Chicago: America’s Second City
Chicago is a vibrant and welcoming city with a potent mixture of the traditional and the modern, inviting you to explore and experience the varying architecture and landscapes. Conveniently located, McCormick Place—home to SSO 2018—resides in the heart of the city and within Museum Campus, a 57-acre park that sits alongside Lake Michigan and encompasses five of the city's most notable attractions, including McCormick Place; the Adler Planetarium, America’s first planetarium; the Shedd Aquarium; the Field Museum of Natural History; and Soldier Field, home of the NFL Chicago Bears football team. Museum Campus sits adjacent to Northerly Island along the waterfront. Keeping that in mind, the first order of business as an SSO 2018 attendees is to bring your walking shoes!
Chicago boasts a myriad of cultural attractions, miles of walkable lakeshore and countless beautiful parks, including Millennium Park, the most-visited tourist attraction in the Midwest. The centerpiece of Millennium Park is Cloud Gate, otherwise known as “The Bean,” an awe-inspiring stainless steel sculpture which reflects and distorts the city’s skyline, making for a prime photographic opportunity. Chicago’s blending of old and new is further exemplified by its famous skyline, combining modern marvels such as Willis Tower and John Hancock Center with older skyscrapers such as Tribune Tower with its neo-gothic architecture.
In addition to those located on Museum Campus, other famous Chicago museums include the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition, Navy Pier, with its rides, sightseeing tours, and IMAX theater, is a prime leisure destination. Perhaps Chicago’s most iconic entertainment institution is The Second City, the improv comedy theater that has produced numerous comedy luminaries including Bill Murray, John Belushi, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, to name just a few.
Chicago is a diverse city with a deep, rich history showcased in many of Chicago’s seventy-seven distinct neighborhoods. Visitors can find ample shopping opportunities along the city’s high-end Magnificent Mile, or in trendy boutiques in nearly every neighborhood. Baseball fans shouldn’t miss the opportunity to wander historic Wrigleyville, home to the world-famous Wrigley Field. Other notable neighborhoods include The Loop, Lincoln Park, Ukrainian Village, Pilsen, Bucktown, Wicker Park, Uptown and Old Town, just to name a few.
And finally, the food. Chicago’s food is as diverse and wonderful as its people. From Little Italy to the Fulton Meat Packing District, Greektown to Chinatown, and all the thousands of restaurants throughout the city and its neighborhoods that exemplify this culturally rich city, Chicago is a haven for anyone and everyone who loves food.
Come to SSO 2018 for the superb education and phenomenal networking opportunities; Enjoy Chicago for its diverse culture, Midwestern charm, renowned history, outstanding restaurants and lively entertainment options.
For additional information about places to visit and things to do while spending time in the Windy City, visit ChooseChicago.