Chicago Flights

The clutch of pioneering architecture in Chicago's downtown reflect in the waters of Lake Michigan. This is the sprawling home of the blues, the hub of the USA's Midwest, where high- and lowbrow clash amid huge parks, public art, waterfronts, luxury and grit. Also an international hub for finance, industry and telecommunications, you've got much to get your teeth into as a visitor in The Windy City (a name with political, not meteorological origins).

Navy Pier

Chicago has a thriving theatre community (belt out a round from Chicago the musical and you'll not be frowned upon) and prolific movie industry. Films produced here include Ferris Bueller's Day Off, The Blues Brothers and Batman Begins. It's a city that's inspired much journalism and literature and its museums and cultural institutions are highly regarded. Diverse and reflective of its immigrant character, Chicago is a city that works and plays hard too.

Grant Park

A quick guide to neighbourhoods to visit, things to see and do:

• Grant Park – hosts the annual, mouth-watering Taste of Chicago festival, Millenium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago
• The Magnificent Mile – adjacent to the downtown area, running along part of Michigan Avenue, has upmarket shopping and nightlife
• Eat at Bella Bacino's – arguably home of the best stuffed pizza (a Chicago specialty) in town
• Go to Lee's Unleaded Blues – in the Chatham-South Shore district, to hear the funkiest, unadulterated blues in its 'untouristy' glory

Grab a flight to Chicago to be one of the 44 million people who visit annually!