Our blog is filled with fun stories and little-known facts about special places.

• Iconic Chicago

The French Origins of Chicago

The first wave of Europeans to colonize North America focused on the Eastern seaboard due to its precious metals and fertile land. France was later to the game than Britain, Spain and the Netherlands, and could only claim the northernmost lands. But the establishment of New France (now Canada) in 1534 enabled France to eventually go further inland via the Great Lakes.

January 23, 2025

• Iconic Chicago

How Frank Lloyd Wright and the Prairie School Defined American Architecture

The Rookery, the only building in downtown Chicago on which Frank Lloyd Wright worked, is featured on Cathy Holleb’s Chicago, the Center of American Architecture tour. The tour takes you to nine historic buildings that have contributed to the city’s status as a global architectural capital. By Dave Lifton (@daveeatschicago) Louis Sullivan’s skyscrapers were revolutionary, […]

January 17, 2025

• Iconic Chicago

Chicago’s Free Museum Days for 2025

The quality, quantity, and diversity of Chicago’s museums are a major reason why Chicago has been named by Condé Nast Traveler as the Best Big City in the U.S. for eight consecutive years. Fortunately for the budget-conscious traveler, most of them have set aside specific days and times where admission is free.

January 9, 2025

• Iconic Chicago

Where to Celebrate Dry January 2025 in Chicago

Dry January was officially launched in Great Britain in 2013 by Alcohol Change UK to suggest that people spend the first month of the year away from drinking so they can notice the health benefits of a sober lifestyle. It has made its way to the U.S., where, in 2024, 27% of adults who typically consume alcohol said they were “very likely” to participate in Dry January.

January 3, 2025

• Iconic Chicago

A Guide to Chicago’s Historic Movie Theaters

In the early days of cinema, movies were seen as cheap entertainment for the lower classes. In an effort to attract a more affluent clientele, theater owners in cities across America decided to build “movie palaces” that were larger and more ornate than the cramped nickelodeons and rundown vaudeville houses being used for motion pictures, and Chicago was an early adopter.

December 27, 2024

• Iconic Chicago

Where to See Chicago’s Best Christmas Decorations in 2024

Some of these trees and more are on the Museum of Illusions’ Chicago Christmas Tree Adventure 2024. This free experience takes you to eight of downtown’s most beautifully decorated trees that are available for public viewing. Those who complete the tour will receive a coupon for 10% off admission to the Museum of Illusions, one of the most fun and whimsical experiences in town.

December 20, 2024