Statistics   Area: 227.2 sq miles Population: 2,896,000 Time Zone: Central Time State: Illinois County: Cook   Sports Teams Football: Bears Hockey: Blackhawks Basketball: Bulls Baseball: Cubs & White Sox

Chicago has it all...    From pizza to blues and architecture to erratic weather, Chicago has made itself known for its individual style and excitement. Not only is Chicago famous for its key points of interest, but it has a deep cultural root that extends far beyond that of most major cities in the United States today. Home to approximately 2,896,000 people, Chicago offers sophistication, blue-collar entertainment, cultural arts, athletic attractions, and everything in between to visitors and residents alike. Chicago began its history as one of America's largest and most famous cities tracing back to nearly 1560 when Jean Baptiste Point Sable set up the first trading post at the mouth of Des Plaines River, which drains into the Mississippi through the Illinois River. Since those humble beginnings, Chicago has been home to the famous Fort Dearborn and St. Lawrence Seaway, bringing settlers and immigrants to flock to its convenient shores. The city of Chicago began as an industrialist city and has yet to completely shake that classification; however, it is now known to be a metropolitan offering of class, sophistication, and style, while still holding on to its bawdy blue-class background. Chicago is home to much of America's rich cultural roots, and will continue to affect the United States and the world for hundreds of years to come. Traveling to Chicago? Check out Soccer Pro for Soccer Gear and Equipment. Including soccer shoes

Chicago's Greatest Attractions
	Navy Pier - Perhaps one of Chicago's most eclectic offerings to locals and tourists is the world-famous Navy Pier. First opened in 1916, the Navy Pier was designed to be a shipping and recreational facility, combing both functional revenue for the city, as well as being a place for residential entertainment. It has since developed into an enormous family entertainment complex, and offers the public extensive shopping promenades, beautiful landscaping, a 15-story Ferris wheel, the Skyline Stage and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, as well as Crystal Gardens, one of the United States' largest indoor botanical gardens. Fun for the whole family, the Navy Pier is truly one of Chicago's most notable attractions.    ... more about Navy Pier
	The Field Museum - This world-class museum boasts more than 6 acres of amazing exhibits, highlighting cultures, relics, environments, and histories from all over the world. The Field Museum is home to the famous Tyrannosaurus Rex named "Sue," which recently delighted children all over the country with her tour. Exhibits are ever-changing at this incredible Chicago attraction, so be sure to check with the current schedule to see what amazing things you could learn or experience.    ... more about The Field Museum
	The Sears Tower - When people think of Chicago, Sears Tower is one of the first city landscapes that pop into mind. Until 1996, it was the world's tallest building, when Malaysia grabbed the title with the Petronas Towers, but only because they were allowed to count their enormous spire as part of the building. However, in terms of highest occupied floor or highest tower, Sears still reigns supreme. Visitors to the Sears Tower can ride in the video-monitor entertaining elevators to the 103rd floor, where they're treated to a view of a lifetime.    ... more about The Sears Tower
	The Art Institute of Chicago - Home to Grant Woods' American Gothic, Pablo Picasso's The Old Guitarist, and many more exquisite art works, this art museum is world renowned for its strong collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings. Entering the great museum through the famous large lion statues, visitors will be greeted to culturally enriching art from all periods of time. And, if you have young children with you, the Art Institute of Chicago also offers the Kraft Education Center for keeping the little ones busy and expanding their minds at the same time.   ... more about The Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago's Sports
	The Chicago Cubs - Chicago is widely known for its strong roots in American football, baseball, and basketball. Wrigley field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is a cultural icon for baseball lovers everywhere. Ivy-covered walls and real grass make this stadium one of the most beautiful and beloved in the country. Wrigley Field has been home to the Cubs since 1916, but the Cubs, despite their passionate and loyal fan-base, haven't won a World Series since 1908.     ... more about the Chicago Cubs
	The Chicago Bears - The Chicago Bears, however, are a different story. The Bears, who now play at the award-winning Soldier Field, got their start in football history back in 1922, when the NFL had yet to even be born. Since then, the Bears became the first NFL team in history to win 600 games in 1997. Again, Chicagoans have proven to be the most die-hard and loyal fans, rooting their team on to victory time and again.   ... more about the Chicago Bears
	The Chicago White Sox - Chicago is also the home of the famed White Sox, who've broken dozens upon dozens of records throughout their illustrious career. An American baseball structural staple, Comiskey Park used to be home to the Chicago White Sox, who now play in the renovated Cellular field. While the White Sox haven't won a World Series in over 40 years, they've consistently produced some of the most memorable and greatest moments in baseball history.   ... more about the Chicago White Sox
	The Chicago Bulls - Grant Park plays host to the infamous Chicago Bulls. The Chicago Bulls, revered for having won the NBA Championship six times, has been notable for being the team Michael Jordan just can't help but keep coming back to. From the day the Bulls played their first game in 1968 to the present, they've been a name to reckon with in the National Basketball Association.   ... more about the Chicago Bulls