Discover Chicago
Hotels, halal food, prayer spaces, things to do, and itineraries in Chicago.
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Must-see attractions in Chicago
From headline landmarks and heritage icons to parks, waterfronts, and major museums, discover 35 standout sights to build into your time in the city.
Chicago is called the "second city", as it is second only to New York in terms of its importance in the United States. It is an economic powerhouse. Chicago has the 4th highest GDP of any metro area in the world. That's reflected in the spectacular skyline, which contrasts beautifully with the shore of Lake Michigan.
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Muslim travel planner
Plan a Muslim-friendly trip in Chicago
Halal restaurants in Chicago
Chicago’s food scene is part of the city experience. Choose from 48 restaurants and food districts with location notes and planning tips.
chicagoEverest
This restaurant is one of the finest restaurants in the nation. It is located on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange. The moment you enter this restaurant, you get transported back to an era of old-fashioned French aristocracy of the 1920’s. In contrast is the strikingly modern and impressive view of Chicago, courtesy the full-wall windows on the western side of the restaurant. Said to give the finest total dining experience, the restaurant also has a rather impressive wine list.
chicagoGrand Café Lux
When the grandeur and luxury of European cafes blends with the practicalities and spirit of an all-American restaurant, what you get is the ultimate in fine dining experience. Café Grand Lux is an unusual eating place where global cuisine is served in elegant yet relaxed surroundings. Savor flavors from a wide and varied selection ranging from Thai, Malaysian and Caribbean, to classic American and European specialties. A hallmark of the Grand Lux experience is the on-site bakery where your chosen dessert whether it be Molten Chocolate Cake or warm Rustic apple pie, will be baked to order.
chicagoShanghai Terrace
This is an award winning restaurant where guests can enjoy a four, eight or fifteen course meal. It includes spas as well as guest rooms. Cuisine: Chinese Address: 108 East Superior Street (at North Michigan Avenue) Chicago, Illinois 60611 -2508, USA Phone: (312) 337 2888 Website: www.chicago.peninsula.com
chicagoSignature Room
Located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Tower, this restaurant gives guests a breathtaking view of the magnificent mile. It also includes extraordinary food and beverages.
chicagoAlinea
Foodies will not want to miss this unique dining experience. Chef Grant Achatz has used gastronomy to create one of the world's best restaurants. Each meal consists of twenty fixed miniature courses, each with its own fanciful presentation. The Black Truffle Explosion is legendary. If you have the money -- it'll set you back around $200 per diner -- definitely check it out. Alinea pushes the limits of what food can be.
chicagoAtwood Café
Located right in the heart of Chicago’s Central business District, this restaurant offers a cozy intimacy. Enjoy dining in the vibrant dining room with a view of the bustling Chicago streets. Cuisine: American – serves contemporary American “comfort foods.” Address: 1 W. Washington Street, Chicago, Illinois 60602 Phone: (312) 368-1900 Website:www.atwoodcafe.com
Chicago masjids and Muslim travel
Landmark masjids and prayer-aware notes for visitors planning salah, family movement, and halal-friendly days.
Masjid Al-Taqwa
Masjid Al-Taqwa 773-769-5486 955 W. Foster Ave Chicago 60640
Masjid e Tahoora
Masjid e Tahoora 773-508-0090 6448 N. Seeley Chicago 60645
Masjid e Noor
Masjid e Noor 773-973-7214 6151 N. Greenview Chicago 60660
Islamic Circle Center (Masjid Al Latif)
773-792-6825 5033 N. Clark Street Chicago 60640
Where to stay in Chicago
Choose where to stay by trip style, from landmark luxury and family bases to central, airport, and neighborhood-led stays.
chicagoFour Seasons (Near North Michigan Avenue)
Guest rooms at Four Seasons start at the 30th floor! The hotel is very close to the shopping centers. Rooms provide dozens of amenities including Ethernet services, a refrigerator and Wi-Fi. Hotel facilities include room service, bar, pool, gym, concierge, laundry service as well as three restaurants.
chicagoHard Rock Hotel
This energetic hotel is loud and flashy with plasma screen TVs everywhere. Their tower room has an amazing view of Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park and the Chicago River. They have DVD, internet, dial-up services in the rooms. In the restaurant they have a bar. Other facilities provided include access to the gym, room service and public Wi-Fi.
chicagoRitz-Carlton
The Chicago franchise of the Ritz-Carlton is located is located above the heart of the Magnificent Mile. Every guest has access to the fitness center, including daily fitness classes, the pool and whirlpool, high-speed wireless internet, and the business center. The rooms are comfortable and the service is just what you'd expect from the Ritz-Carlton. There are also two excellent restaurants and a bar.
chicagoSofitel
The Sofitel is a four-star hotel located just off Chicago's Magnificent Mile. It's within a few blocks of the city's best restaurants and shopping. Rooms feature luxurious marble bathrooms, high-speed internet, and HDTVs. Amenities include a gym and pool. There is also a bar and a restaurant. The Cafe des Architectes serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and has a lovely outdoor terrace.
chicagoPeninsula
The Peninsula is one of three five-star hotels in Chicago. It's located just off the Magnificent Mile, home to Chicago's finest shopping and restaurants. In fact, the ground floor of the hotel is occupied by Banana Republic and Tiffany & Co.
History and today in Chicago
Read the city today, its history, residents, culture, and character before planning your route.
Fast Facts
Location : In northeastern Illinois, at the southwestern tip of Lake Michigan.
City Information
Public Holidays
January: New Year’s Day - 1st Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day – 3rd Monday in Jan; February: Groundhog Day- 2nd Lincoln’s Birthday – 12th Valentine’s Day- 14th President’s Day- 3rd Monday in Feb; March: C. Pulaski’s Birthday – 2nd
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Visa Information
There is now a new process for persons traveling to the United States. It includes an Electronic Visa Application Form. This form will be processed faster and is now used for all Nonimmigrant Visa applications. The Electronic Visa Application Form is an online application that can be filled out on the internet, making the whole process a lot faster. The average wait period has been reduced to 1-2 days in Abu Dhabi and about 5 days in Dubai.
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When to go
Summer is the best time to visit Chicago. The weather gets hot and humid -- regularly into the mid 30s --but temperatures are moderated somewhat by Lake Michigan. It's usually sunny too, though severe storms can pop up suddenly. Summer is also filled with festivals and cultural activities.
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Chicago Residents
Chicagoans are often extroverted; talkative, assertive and outgoing. They are friendly, social people who are positive in most situations. Chicago is a great place for people who like group activities and social gatherings. Hard-working Chicagoans love sports, both as participants and fans. Many can be seen playing along the lakeshores. According to the US Census Bureau, White Americans made up 37.6% of Chicago’s population while Black or African Americans made up 35.0%. Asian Americans accounted for 4.9% of the population while other races made 20.6%. The main ethnic groups in Chicago are African American, Irish, German, Italian, Mexican, English, Bulgarian, Greek, Chinese, Slovak, Lithuanian, Polish, Bosnian, Czech, Filipino, Serbian, Russian, Ukrainian, Indian, Arab, and Puerto Rican. Poles in Chicago constitute the largest Polish population outside of the Polish capital of Warsaw.
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Chicago History
What is now Chicago was first settled by Europeans in the 1780s. During the War of 1812 it was the sight of Fort Dearborn, an important outpost of the US Army. The town of Chicago was founded along the southwest shore of Lake Michigan on August 12, 1833 after the remaining Native American population was forcefully removed following the Treat of Chicago.
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Chicago Today
Chicago is called the "second city", as it is second only to New York in terms of its importance in the United States. It is an economic powerhouse. Chicago has the 4th highest GDP of any metro area in the world. That's reflected in the spectacular skyline, which contrasts beautifully with the shore of Lake Michigan.
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Chicago in one day
Start your tour of Chicago with a sampling of the city's famed architecture. Take a guided walking tour with the Chicago Architecture Foundation. This two hour tour traverses the Loop, giving insight into the city's history and letting you feel the pulse of the city. There is also an architectural boat tour available that runs along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, if you don't feel like walking.
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Shopping in Chicago
Explore 21 shopping stops, from malls, markets, and book bazaars to fashion streets and souvenir finds.
chicago900 North Michigan Shops
This mall is the most upscale out of the rest of the malls. It has about 70 stores, a few good restaurants and a movie theatre on the lower level. Address: 900 N. Michigan Ave. Phone: 1-312-915-3916
chicagoAmerican Girl Place
For those of you with little girls, don’t give this one a miss, for it is more than just a store, it’s an experience. Incredible boutiques showcase contemporary and historical characters, beautiful dolls, accessories, and outfits for both girls and dolls. There’s also a café that serves brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The doll hair salon is especially popular and girls can watch as the stylists brush, braid, twist, and fix the dolls’ hair! A stage show brings stories from the American Girl books to life. Address: 111 East Chicago Avenue, across from Water Tower Park Phone: 1-877-AG PLACE www.americangirl.com
chicagoChicago Place Mall
Several designer names begin at the intersection of Oak Street and Michigan Avenue. Clothing, home-décor and a food court are all available on the top floor. Address: 700 N. Michigan Ave. Phone: 1-312-642-4811
chicagoMacy’s
This block-long store is second only to the Macy’s flagship store at New York. Its breadth of merchandise is impressive, as is the interior. A number of exclusive miniboutiques within the store sell the latest designer wear and footwear. There are also a number of beauty stations where you can pamper yourself and pick up exclusive cosmetics. Take out time to sample Charlie Trotter’s gourmet food at the food department.
chicagoMagnificent Mile
This area is about a mile long stretch of North Michigan Avenue between Oak Street and the Chicago River. This area is known to have the best stores and is simply a shopper’s paradise. If high-end designer stuff is what you’re looking out for, then this is the perfect place for you. From Bulgari jewelry, Prada bags, or Salvatore Ferragamo footwear, you’ll find it all. This area is also the heart of the city and walking down the streets you gives a distinctive feel of what it’s like to be a Chicagoan.
Signature sights in Chicago
A curated pick of the city's standout sights, led by the strongest editorial recommendations.
Festivals and events in Chicago
Plan around 30 festival seasons, public events, Ramadan/Eid periods, book fairs, art cycles, and winter food activity.
chicagoWinter Celebration in Lights
All through the first week of January, interactive events take place in the Elizabeth Mores Genus Children’s Garden. Beautiful plants can be viewed in the largest glass greenhouse in the US, along with holiday lights that celebrate the continuation of winter. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Avenue. Call (312) 746-5100 for more information.
chicagoAround the Coyote Winter Festival
Works of over 400 artists, including art performances, are on view at the Wicker Park and Bucktown neighborhoods, during the first week of February. This event is sponsored by the resident artists. Call (312) 744-2400 for more information
chicagoAuto Show
An auto show that’s seen 101 editions continues to delight Chicagoans with its rich and varied collection of contemporary cars. Hundreds of the latest production cars and trucks are showcased here. McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lakeshore Drive, for two weeks in the middle of February. Call (312) 791-7000 for more information.
chicagoRube Goldberg Machine Contest
Teams come out to compete at building a machine that takes an allotted number of steps (20 or more) to complete a certain task. The machine designed should use the most complex process to complete a simple task. This event is hosted by the Chicago Children’s Museum. Located at Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Avenue, in the middle of February. Call (312) 527-1000 for more information.
chicagoChicago Bike Show
Check out the annual bike show where bike manufacturers and bike clubs come together in one location. Located at the Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Avenue, usually held at the end of March. Call (312) 595-PIER for more information.
Chicago tours and experiences
Heritage walks, food crawls, coastal trips, museum circuits, family days, and guided ideas for an easier day out.
chicagoChicago Architectural Cruise
Starting at Navy Pier, this tour takes you down the main branch of the Chicago River, up to the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past Sears Tower to the old Post Office Building. All along you get to sample Chicago’s world famous architecture as knowledgeable guides provide detailed descriptions of more than 40 buildings and regale you with dramatic stories of Chicago’s rise from the Great Fire of 1871 to become a world-class city.
chicagoChicago Grand Tour with Hancock Tower
This tour will take you along the entire length of the scenic Outer Drive and to all the beautiful parks of the city including Lincoln Park, Grant Park, and Washington Park. Visitors can enjoy a visit to the Lincoln Park Conservatory. A stop will also be made at the Adler Planetarium. The tour includes a visit to the John Hancock Center Observatory and the open-air Skydeck, 1000 feet above Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, from where you get stunning views of the city.
chicagoChicago Greeters
What better way to tour a city than through the eyes and experience of an ardent resident. Greeters are residents who know and love the city and who take small groups of up to six people to attractions, neighborhoods, and other unusual places of interest. They even take them shopping. Greeters is a free service of the Chicago Office of Tourism. Please note that advance reservations are necessary.
chicagoChicago Hop On & Hop Off Trolley Tours
Tour Chicago on an authentic San Francisco-style trolley car with solid oak and brass interiors. A very popular option, this tour gives you the flexibility to spend as much time as you want at a particular tourist attraction. The trolley stops at the following places; Sears Tower, Palmer House Hilton, Art Institute, Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Navy Pier, Water Tower, John Hancock Tower, Hard Rock Café, Mc Donalds, Wrigley Building and Fort Dearborn. Boarding and leaving the trolley is permitted at designated stops only. The trolley can be used throughout the day; simply hop on and hop off according to your plans and interests.
chicagoFilm Tour in Chicago
If seeing film locations is your idea of fun, then this tour is a must. Seated comfortably in a luxury coach with 2 flat screen TVs showing actual film clips, a bag of popcorn (it is after all a film tour!), and you’re all set to witness filming locations of innumerable blockbuster films and famous television shows. Patrol the Dark Knight’s Gotham City, visit Oprah’s HARPO studio, see Bundy Fountain, visit the famous Billy Goat Tavern from Saturday Night Live, get up close to the Pursuit of Happiness, Drive down Siskel & Ebert Way, find out the inside gossip on Chicago celebrities, and more. The tour includes more than 30 sites where more than 50 movies were filmed.
The Irhal city file
Chicago travel guide sections
Focused sections for articles, directories, maps, and trip planning.
