Guide to: Chicago

By: C. Costa

Chicago is a young, beautiful and vibrant city full of exiting things to do! My trip was only 4 days long, so this guide will be my top 4 tips to Chicago.
 
Millennium Park is the one place you must visit. Apart from the stunning views, the park also holds free outdoor music concerts every Monday and Thursday during the summer, at the jay Pritzker Pavilion, which has a great picinic-perfect lawn right before the stage. At the park there are also inspiring public art pieces, such as the Cloud gate (most famously know as the bean); these can make great Instagram pictures. There are also rock climbing, bike, rollerblades and scooter rentals.
 
You must also visit the art institute of Chicago. There is a pedestrian bridge that joins the Millennium Park to the art institute of Chicago, meaning you can do both in one day. There are exceptional artists like Giacometti and his Tall figures, René Magritte and Salvador Dali.  During my stay I also got to see an incredible temporary exhibition about the life and work of Paul Gauguin.  
 
Alternatively, the park is also located on Michigan Avenue, which is the best place if you want to go shopping. You can find all sorts of stores, including a three-floor American Girl store, which I definitely recommend having a look- it is huge.
 
Lastly, walk around the city. Pay attention to street artists and the amazing architecture. And if you sail down Chicago River, you can clearly see the mixture of old and new skyscrapers that give the city is charming look. However, the weather can be very cold. So much so that the city is nicknamed the Windy City.
 
Therefore, my last advice, even if you are visiting Chicago during the summer, is to make sure to take a coat with you.