You won’t find a more unique city than Chicago. From our architecture to our infrastructure, there are so many things about our fabulous city that make it stand out. This is why you can always expect to have an unforgettable experience when you visit the Windy City.  So, if you’re curious to know more, read on to learn about what makes Chicago unique.

1. We have the bluest waters outside of the Caribbean.
Max Pixel
Due to our location along Lake Michigan, Chicago is lucky to be home to some amazing beaches with crystal blue water. Therefore, when the sun is shining bright and you're out there on the sand, you'll be reminded of what is special about Chicago. You might even forget you're in the Midwest!
2. We have more bridges than any other city.
Flickr/Antonio Bovino
Another thing that makes Chicago unique is our 37 movable bridges that spread across the Chicago River. We need so many because our river has several branches that wind throughout the city.
3. Gotham City was inspired by our city.
Wikimedia Commons/vagueonthehow
Not every city can claim that it's the setting for a science-fiction world found in comic books and movies. Batman's hometown is based on the architecture of the sleek, yet somewhat gritty city of Chicago.
4. Our art is incredible.
Wikimedia Commons/Serge Melki
Some of what makes Chicago unique is our magnificent pieces of art that are world-renowned, such as this digital fountain in Millennium Park. On many streets in Chicago, there are pieces of abstract art, statues, and murals at just about every corner you turn!

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5. Our attractions can't be beat.
Wikimedia Commons/Vytis1
Nothing makes this city more fun and special than its diverse range of attractions. Spend the day discovering what is special about Chicago at one of many museums, or explore a park, one of two zoos, and even botanic gardens scattered throughout the city.
6. Our river runs backward.
Public Domain Pictures/Tim Emerich
Here are some fun facts about Chicago. In 1900, the flow of the Chicago River was reversed to save the city. Chicago faced a flooding problem that could have turned into a "sewage in the streets" nightmare, so engineers devised a plan: Water from the lake was poured into the Mississippi River watershed to make the magic happen. We also like to dye it green!
7. Our food is top-notch.
Flickr/Kimberly Vardeman
All hearty and delicious, Chicago is also special for its diverse cuisines. The pizza is thick, the hot dogs are unmatched, and there's this tasty thing called Italian beef everywhere you turn.
8. This one-of-a-kind corn cob skyscraper.
Wikimedia Commons/Nicolas G. Mertens
These double towers are known as Marina City and are part residential space and part office space.
9. Our pride.
Flickr/Daniel Huizinga
We're proud of our unique city, and true Chicagoans wear that on their sleeves. This is a city that loves its flag so much that some even tattoo it on their bodies! We may be eccentric, but we like it that way.

Now that you learned some facts about the Windy City, feel free to check out 10 of the weirdest things that have ever happened in Chicago.

What else makes Chicago a unique city? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

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What Makes Chicago Unique

Marla S. | October 10, 2022

What are some more unique things about Chicago?

You've just learned about what is special about Chicago. In addition to discovering what makes Chicago unique, did you know about some of the city's stereotypes? To begin, Chicago drivers have been known to be some of the most aggressive in the Midwest. However, you might be surprised to learn that they're some of the safest in the country.

In addition to how Chicagoans drive, some unusual things about the Windy City and throughout the state are considered both weird and illegal. For example, while it might be comfortable, it's actually against the law to go fishing in pajamas when you're in Chicago. And, in case you were wondering, it's against the law to take your French Poodle to the opera too!

What are the most beautiful places in Chicago?

Aside from the sites mentioned above, many beautiful locations throughout the city support why Chicago is so special. For starters, there's far from a shortage of scenic spots scattered throughout the city that are ideal for planning a romantic evening with your partner. This includes the Adler Planetarium, taking a walk along South Pond, Garfield Park Conservatory, and taking in the Chicago skyline.

To understand what makes Chicago unique, make sure to add the Chicago Botanical Gardens to your list of places to visit when you're in the city. When you head to this beautiful spot in the Windy City, be prepared to have your jaw drop as you take in the lush and scenic landscapes throughout the gardens.

What are people from Chicago known for?

When you think of someone from Chicago, what comes to mind?  One of the first things to know about people from Chicago is that they have some habits that might be considered unusual. For example, it's not uncommon to have someone from the Windy City ask what part of the city you're from. Another fun fact about Chicago is that many dishes come with a fried egg on top of it!

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