A true metropolis, Chicago is one of the nation’s top travel destinations -- and rightfully so. With some of the world’s best museums, architecture, dining and entertainment options, along with amazing parks, lakefront beaches and the many neighborhoods that form the city’s patchwork of population, there’s as many reasons to visit Chicago as there are steps and windows in the Willis Tower.

First time visitors to Chicago (we don’t ever call it Chi-Town) will want to spend at least a couple days exploring the Loop’s architecture, the Magnificent Mile shopping spots and the many downtown open spaces – Millennium and Grant Park are must-sees, which lead you right into the Museum Campus with the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium.

The city’s peak season runs basically from April through November, and then hotel prices drop significantly during the chilly winters, making it a great time to visit on a budget.