Before Chicago
Chicago was not my first choice. Before I met my wife, it was not even on my list. Nothing against it, I just did not see it as the kind of place people fall in love with. That changed fast.
I grew up in New Jersey, so my idea of a big city was New York. In my head, nothing could touch the Big Apple. My wife and in-laws are from the Midwest. My father in law is from Chicago. They were always talking it up. I just nodded along.
The trip that changed it
After COVID, we were desperate for a trip. After a little convincing, I agreed to visit the Windy City in the summer of 2021.
I was sold.
The atmosphere was something I honestly could not put into words. The culture, the sights, the food, and especially the people made it a place I did not want to leave.
We went to the usual tourist spots:
- Navy Pier
- Michigan Avenue
- Portillo’s
- Gino’s East
- The Field Museum, which was the highlight for me
What sealed it for me
What really sealed it for me was the Architecture River Tour by Shoreline Sightseeing. I loved hearing the stories behind the buildings. I enjoyed learning how the city was planned. Each structure serves a purpose instead of being dropped on any open lot. If you are into history or architecture, or both, I highly recommend that tour.
“The journey, not the arrival, matters.”
— John Steinbeck
Chicago became a place I did not expect to love, but I am glad I was wrong.
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