Travel Magazine Once Again Names Chicago Best Big City to Visit


Move over New York and Los Angeles, because Chicago keeps topping the list for “best big city in the U.S.” in an annual survey by a national travel magazine.

It’s the sixth year in a row the city has landed in the top spot. More than 240,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers from all over the country ranked Chicago as their favorite city to visit.

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But what makes Chicago so special?

“Chicago has so much to offer,” said Lynn Osmond, president and CEO of Choose Chicago. 

From the Midwestern hospitality, winning sports teams, scenic lake and parks, to the diverse neighborhoods, exciting museums and Michelin-star cuisine, Chicago has it all, according to Osmond. 

A big part of the ranking has to do with the Chicago food scene, Osmond said. 

“You can go to every culture in every neighborhood and experience a new cuisine or a new shopping experience,” Osmond said. 

And with many unique Chicago neighborhoods, travelers have a lot to choose from. 

“Chicago offers a lot of authentic experiences,” Osmond said. 

The award has been given out for 35 years, and no other city has been chosen for the top spot for six consecutive years.


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