Chicago

A city of superlatives – and home to Mr President

Chicago has been called the "most American city" for its dizzying melting pot of cultures and its can-do attitude. It has been called the "world capital of modern architecture", having been given a second chance to build stunning structures after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Its politicians through the decades have been pegged as "colourful", which in some cases was a gentler word for "corrupt". Lately Chicago has been singled out as the hottest restaurant city in the United States, and one of the world's greatest dining destinations. That claim was superceded most recently when Chicago became the unofficial centre of the political world as Chicagoan Barack Obama delivered his presidential victory speech in Grant Park. It is an exciting time to visit Chicago, no matter where your interest lies.