Chicago: "Pulse of America"

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Economy Alert! Skip rising gas prices in this public transportation-friendly city.

Chicago is in many ways the nation's last great city. Sarah Bernhardt called it "the pulse of America" and, though long eclipsed by Los Angeles as the nation's second most populous city, Chicago is second to none when it comes to sheer personality and unbridled spirit.

Despite burning to the ground in the legendary fire of 1871, Chicago boomed thereafter, doubling in population every decade and reaching two million around the turn of the century, swollen largely by Irish and eastern European immigrants. Today, Chicago still has the largest Polish population in the world outside of Warsaw.

Chicago’s towering skyline, which boasts the world’s best collections of modern architecture, dominates the shores of Lake Michigan and the surrounding prairies. The downtown Loop holds the head offices of many major US companies and some of the nation's most important commodity markets. Chicago's status as the cultural and financial heart of middle America is beyond question. All year round, there are festivals, exhibitions, parades and full programs of theatre, dance, art and music. This is, after all, the city that coined the term ‘jazz’ and is home to some of the best blues venues in the country, including the original House of Blues.

Chicago is many things at once—a blue-collar town that's full of high culture and gracious living; a town of historical importance that's focused on the future; a classic Midwestern city of international importance. Ultimately, Chicago's refusal to conform to any single style is what truly defines this city.

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Chicago Convention and Visitors Bureau
Get detailed information about Chicago, its neighborhoods, history, attractions, as well as maps and directions.

Events Guide
Find out about the latest events and happenings in Chicago, get the scoop on the best restaurants in town and check out the top family-friendly attractions.

State Information
This handy guide is filled with everything you need to know about nursing in Illinois, including state nursing associations, CE requirements, salary information and more.

The Chicago Tribune
This daily newspaper covers all the latest news, sports and business, and also includes information-packed entertainment and job guides.

Chicago Reader
A weekly newspaper filled with event listings, entertainment, restaurant reviews and personals.

Chicago Sun Times
This daily publication features breaking news and business, as well as detailed guides for home buyers and job seekers.

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