Named 10 things that residents of Chicago love about their city

There is nothing Chicagoans love more than Chicago. The city's unique architectural history, unparalleled gastronomy, and euphoric summers continuously reignite the passion of its residents for their beloved city.

Time Out Chicago asked its readers what makes them fall in love with this city and received numerous responses. Here are some of the things that excite Chicagoans.

Beaches

When you regale your friends with tales of your summer escapades at the beach, many might be surprised to learn about Chicago's beaches. It's one of the city's best-kept secrets from outsiders – there are 24 sandy beaches along all 28 miles of the sprawling lakefront, stretching from Juneway Beach in Rogers Park to Calumet Beach on the East Side. While it may not be the ideal spot for relaxation during the winter months, it's a quintessential part of what makes Chicago summers unforgettable. Whether you're gathering with friends for a beachside picnic or taking an early morning swim, a visit to a Chicago beach always reignites the love Chicagoans have for their city.

Italian beef

This hearty dish of tender roast beef, hot or sweet peppers, and flavorful jus has become a beloved Chicago delicacy. Favorite spots for the best Italian beef in Chicago include Al's Beef, Johnnie's, and Mr. Beef.

Public art

A massive chrome bean in the heart of Millennium Park, clusters of headless sculptures in Grant Park, and the largest video art installation projected onto the Merchandise Mart. These are just some of the captivating forms of public art in Chicago – you might not immediately "get it," but it all adds to the city's unique charm.

The scent of chocolate from the Blommer Chocolate Factory

If you've ever found yourself near Kinzie and Des Plaines streets in the West Loop, you've likely caught a whiff of a sudden, potent, and delightful chocolate aroma. The culprit? The Blommer Chocolate Company, a cocoa bean processor established in 1939. For many, it's a sweet reminder of Sweet Home Chicago.

Lake Shore Drive

For some of the most picturesque views of Lake Michigan, take a drive along Lake Shore Drive, which stretches from Hyde Park to uptown, offering unparalleled vistas of the city skyline and lakefront.

O'Hare International Airport

While navigating through this iconic airline hub may have been a nightmare for many at least once, compared to other cities, many Chicagoans are appreciative of it. Not only is it recognized for having the most international connections of any airport, with direct flights to 218 cities worldwide, but it's also famed for its easy access to highways and public transportation.

Music scene

Chicago is the birthplace of gospel, electric blues, and house music. With over 250 live music venues across the city and major music festivals like Lollapalooza and Pitchfork, there's no shortage of musical experiences in Chicago.

Jibaritos

As a testament to Chicago's thriving Puerto Rican community, the jibarito stands as a classic Chicago sandwich. Introduced at Borinquen restaurant in Humboldt Park by Juan Figueroa in 1996, the inventive dish replaces traditional bread with flattened, fried green plantains. It has since become synonymous with Chicago cuisine and is just one of the many reasons to fall in love with the city.

City architecture

Chicago's striking architectural diversity is impossible to ignore. From the iconic downtown skyline to rows of single-family bungalows, elegant graystone homes, and occasional Art Deco buildings, the city's architecture is captivating. Next time you're strolling around the neighborhood, be sure to look up – you might stumble upon some of Chicago's most beautiful buildings.

Summer street festivals

From Pilsen's Mothers' Day Festival to Bronzeville's Bud Billiken Parade and West Fest in West Town, Chicagoans are never short of entertainment during the summer thanks to these vibrant festivals.