Where exactly is it?
Chicago is the largest city in the state of Illinois in Midwest America. At the southern tip of Lake Michigan it is the third most densely populated city in the USA. New York is several few states east while north would take you over the Canadian border.
How do I get there?
Aer Lingus flies from Dublin and Shannon to O’Hare airport in Chicago. Alternatively, you could try KLM flights from Dublin and Cork with changes in Amsterdam. US Airways also offer direct flights from Dublin.
What language do they speak?
Despite the accent, it’s recognisable English.
What’s the local beer like?
For a real taste of American beer, try the locally brewed Goose Island. The most widely available is an IPA. But the full range is worth trying. They include Blonde Ale, Summertime and the embarrassingly named Honkers Ale. Most of their beers are pretty light and easy to drink with a mildly bitter taste. If you develop a liking for the stuff, you can take a tour of the friendly Goose Island brewery on West Fulton Street.
Other drinks?
The locals also imbibe copious amounts of bottled beer such as Budweiser and Miller. Stay away from ‘light’ beer – these bottles of orange colored water have an alarmingly low calorie and alcohol content! Of course, the best option for an iconic American drink is Jack Daniels.
What’s the transport like?
The city is served by the CTA bus and train network, an efficient and cheap public transport system. Regular services operate within The Loop (the central area of Chicago) with other lines supporting the links between Uptown and Downtown.
What’s the food like?
In Chicago, whatever you order there will be plenty of it! You can never be short of Italian-American restaurants serving generous portions of freshly made pasta and pizza. The famous Chicago deep-dish pizza has to be tried – a thick base with a two-inch filling of your choice, topped with mozzarella cheese. On your way around the city you’ll also notice hundreds of branded donut bars such as Krispy Kreme and Dunkin’ Donuts. These sugar-laden treats will eventually get you – there’s nothing better than a candy sprinkled, deep-fried carbohydrate after a night out. The coffee in these places is surprisingly good too.
What is the nightlife like?
If you want to avoid the Irish bars (of which there are many), jazz and comedy clubs can make for a great night out. Chicago is the home of American blues music so live venues are plentiful – try the famous Green Mill Jazz Club for established jam sessions and poetry slams.
Why should I go?
Chicago is one of the most culturally diverse cities in America, with a high proportion of Irish ancestry. It also has strong roots in the black civil rights movement and was once home to none other than Barack Obama. The city’s rich history of music, literature, comedy and the arts make it a great melting pot for American culture – plus, it’s friendlier and cheaper than New York.
What are the touristy things to do?
The boat trips out to Lake Michigan are the best way to see Chicago’s impressive skyline, especially at sunset. The city was home to the first skyscraper in 1885 and is now considered a beacon for early 20th century architecture. If you prefer shopping to sightseeing, the Magnificent Mile is famous for its retail therapy with over 400 stores to choose from.
What else?
Head towards Lincoln Park and Old Town to get a real sense of the city. For the best alternative retailing including thrift stores, vintage clothing, record shops and tattooists, then Wicker Park is the place to be. Make sure you stop at Quimby’s bookstore – an independent shop with a particular taste for comics and graphic novels.
Anything to avoid?
Try not to travel on the CTA alone at night. Despite the friendly locals, Chicago has a big problem with the homeless, who use the trains as a place to sleep and (sometimes) relieve themselves.
What should I bring home?
The Chicago Bulls are the city’s much loved basketball team, and if you can’t catch a game then buying some memorabilia is the next best thing.
What’s my challenge?
To eat an entire deep-dish pizza, because the American word for ‘small’ doesn’t exist!
What’s the currency?
American dollars.
Something to remember?
Tipping in America is expected – remember to take enough change with you for taxis and restaurants. The usual tip for service is 15 – 20% and in bars it’s $1 per drink.