Chicago is full of soul, and its residents will tell you that their city is truly a tapestry of art (like Pilsen’s mural-lined streets!), flavor, history-- a real reflection of its people!
If you’re looking for a change of scenery—but first, all the reasons to fall in love with Chicago—you’ve come to the right place! This world-class city has extensive offerings in public art, eats from every culture, a thriving literary community, architectural marvels, and a music scene with strong historical roots.
No matter what you’re looking for, or whether you’re more dazzled by sparkling, lakeside strolls or buzzing, late-night jazz clubs, Chicago has something to make you feel refreshed and drawn in; this list pulls it all together!
Mirror, Mirror on “The Bean”: Cloud Gate Is Chicago’s Must-See Landmark
In Millennium Park sits Anish Kapoor’s sculpture Cloud Gate—known affectionately by residents and onlookers as “The Bean.” The giant, reflective, selfie-magnet surface captures the city skyline, the lake beyond, and endless human interactions in a single, unending canvas. At sunset, photographers chase rays of sunshine across its curves in search of an incredible image, and at night, city lights dance down its spine.
Living near this landmark means daily encounters with a public-art masterpiece—and the humans flocking to it! Think: immediate access to one of Chicago’s most Instagram-worthy backdrops; true aesthetics just a few steps from your front door.
Deep-Dish Dreams & No Ketchup Allowed: Chicago’s Most Iconic Eats
Living in Chicago—or even visiting Chicago—wouldn’t be complete without its culinary staples.
Thick, buttery crust; layers of gooey mozzarella; and chunky tomato sauce: deep-dish pizza! There are spots throughout the city to get this iconic dish: Lou’s, Giordano’s, Pequod’s, and way, way more!
The Chicago-style hot dog is another must-eat Chicago classic. It’s an all-beef frankfurter nestled in a steamed poppy-seed bun, piled high with yellow mustard, green relish, chopped onions, tomato wedges, sport peppers, a dill pickle spear, and a shake of celery salt. They’re easy to grab from a street-corner vendor, a ballpark stand, or dedicated hot dog shops. Some say the hot dog’s only done right in Chicago!
Spoken Word & Poetry Boxes: Discover Chicago’s Flourishing Literary Scene
The city that was the inspiration for Carl Sandburg’s “City of the Big Shoulders” continues to nurture poets of every age, experience, and walk of life. There are beautiful open-mic nights in Logan Square coffee shops and curated readings at storied Hyde Park bookstores, creating a perfect energy for literary lovers. Poetry Magazine was founded in Chicago and remains a champion across the world for innovation and diversity in verse.
Scattered “poetry boxes” around town invite passersby to take or leave a poem, fostering spontaneous moments of reflection. For renters who crave creative community, the unofficial home of Spoken Word Poetry is a place you should consider!
Architectural Masterpieces: Chicago as a Living Museum
If you’d like to soar above the Loop, 1,353 feet to be exact, check out Willis Tower Skydeck: Step onto the glass ledge for a view of Chicago’s grid-iron streets and the blue ribbon of Lake Michigan. The Tribune Tower offers a different vibe, so make sure to pause at Michigan Avenue to trace the neo-Gothic buttresses carved with fragments from the Great Wall of China, Chartres Cathedral, and the Taj Mahal.
Live Like a Chicagoan: Festivals, Street Fairs & Summer Concert Essentials
Step out of your Chicago apartment door and into the city; hear the distant wail of a saxophone drifting through alleyways, or the rumble of a bass line coursing beneath your feet. Neon signs will draw you into cozy, backdoor clubs where laughter mingles with snares, and the community builds itself.
As an extra perk, all summer long, the central city park, Grant Park, repeatedly transforms into a giant club, where thousands sway together under fireworks, share delicious food, and sway to the gentle breeze off Lake Michigan during music festivals like Lollapalooza. In Chicago, live music isn’t occasional; it’s an undercurrent of the city!
Apartment Hacks: Finding Your Dream Chicago Home Near All the Action
Finding an apartment you love is more than just an analysis of its square footage and amenities, it’s about finding a rhythm you can thrive with. Chicago’s rhythm is literal, poetic, and reflected by its vast mosaic of cultures and neighborhoods. Whether you’re seeking an apartment that nestles you in lyrical rhythm or delicious food, Apartments.com can help you with your search to find a place where these experiences are just outside your door. Start your search today—and let Chicago’s wonders become part of your daily life.
