Chicago has been named the best big city in the US for the tenth consecutive year, according to a Condé Nast Traveler survey of over 800,000 respondents. The city first secured the honour in 2017 and remains the first and only city to claim the accolade for 10 straight years.
A decade of recognition
Over the past decade, Chicago has undergone significant evolution, helping it triumph time and again. Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago, said: "This historic recognition belongs to the entire city of Chicago."
She added: "From the hospitality professionals who welcome guests each day to the chefs, artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders who create remarkable, only-in-Chicago experiences, it takes an entire city to sustain this standard for a decade. We do not stay at the top by standing still. Chicago is always evolving, always creating, and always giving visitors new reasons to come back."
What makes Chicago stand out
Condé Nast Traveler said it is "no wonder" the city has triumphed once more, describing it as "a world-class destination known for its impressive architecture, first-rate museums, brilliant chefs, and massive brewing scene, it'll take several repeat visits to get through your list of must-dos."
Mayor Brandon Johnson added: "This historic recognition reflects the creativity of our residents, the strength of our neighborhoods, and the excellence of the local institutions and businesses that welcome visitors from around the world. For 10 consecutive years, travellers have recognised what Chicagoans already know: there is no place quite like our city. This remarkable milestone is a testament to everything Chicago has to offer and one our entire city can celebrate with pride."
Where other cities ranked
While Chicago claimed the top spot, New York failed to crack the top three, landing in fourth place. Boston came in third, and San Francisco took second.
