They say the name Chicago was applied to the river first, then to the city by association with the river. Since the mid-nineteenth century, Chicago has been a major transportation hub for railroads, steamboats, and Great Lakes’ sailing ships. Important events in the past include the great fire of 1871. In rebuilding from that catastrophe, in 1885, the city witnessed completion of its first skyscraper. A little later, one of the first world’s fairs, the World’s Columbian Exhibition, opened in Chicago in 1893.

For entertainment and the arts, Chicago has some famous theaters and troupes. The Drury Lane Theater is easy to reach. For established types of theater, visit Second City for comedy and the Steppenwolf Theater Company for drama. Live music venues are all over the city, because of its great blues and jazz scenes. If you like to shop, stroll the Magnificent Mile along Michigan Avenue. And, while on Michigan Avenue near the Loop, take in the Art Institute of Chicago, worth visiting for its collection of twentieth-century European paintings alone. By no means is that the museum’s sole focus, but that collection is definitely a major draw.

The University of Chicago and Northwestern University are major national universities in a city that contains many other fine institutes of higher learning.

For relaxation, Lake Michigan provides a great scene for boating. While visiting, check out the Navy Pier and the Shedd Aquarium and enjoy the boats during a stroll along the lake shore or while riding on Lake Shore Drive. If you visit during the last week of June, you’ll find the “Taste of Chicago” is a worthy experience. It’s located in Grant Park.