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Chicago Hotels
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Only in the
eyes of New Yorkers is Chicago this country's Second
City. For in the Windy City, visitors will find culture
and chaos, sports and skyscrapers, dramatic architecture
and a diverse population.
Incorporated in 1837, the Town of Chicago drew its name
from a Native-American word meaning "great." Thirty
years later, 90,000 residents were left homeless in the
Great Chicago Fire, which killed 300 people and left a
devastating $200 million in damage. A grave disaster,
the fire nonetheless provided the city an opportunity to
rebuild and grow; by the time it hosted the 1893 World's
Fair, it was home to the famous "El" train that still
encircles the heart of downtown Chicago. Nearly three
million people call Chicago home, a mid-Western mixture
of cultures and races. The city's motto, "I will," is an
articulation of its hopes and dreams as the city
continues to grow in importance. And true to its name,
it is a great city, with world-champion teams like the
Chicago Bulls and well-beloved teams like the Chicago
Cubs. Chicago sports fans are known around the globe for
undying devotion in the bitter winter to their Bears,
and through the long summers in the bleachers at Wrigley
and Comiskey parks.
Chicago boasts more than a handful of architectural
achievements, from the towering Sears Tower to the
Tribune Tower, whose base includes stones from famous
buildings throughout the world. The city is a growing
cultural haven; the Art Institute of Chicago houses a
world-class collection, from Impressionist masters to
more contemporary works in photography and ethnic art.
And from the Art Institute, many of the city's major
cultural and tourist attractions are within walking
distance, including the Field Museum, the Shedd
Aquarium, and the Hancock Tower.
And what would Chicago be without the blues? This
classic American musical innovation floated up the
Mississippi River, where it was perfected and is still
performed throughout the city; the original House of
Blues is located on Dearborn Street and hosts the
masters of this music.
Nestled on the shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago can be
whatever you want it to be - a sports fan's paradise, a
music lover's mecca, a shopper's delight, a
culture-seeker's dream. Just don't for a second call it
boring.
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