Chicago is the seat of Cook County, the second-most populous county in the U.S. Chicago was incorporated as a city in 1837 near a portage between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River …

Welcome to the official City of Chicago Website. The source for information about City services, departments, programs and initiatives, and officials for Chicago residents, businesses, and visitors.

Chicago is celebrating its 9th year as the Best Big City in the U.S.! Explore iconic attractions, hidden gems, and travel guides. Plan the perfect Chicago trip!

May 27, 2026 · Grab your friends and soak up some fun in Chicago with our guide to events this weekend! Find local live music, comedy clubs, and community festivities.

Jul 28, 2025 · Must-visit attractions in Chicago include the Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, Second City, Skydeck Chicago, and of course, "The Bean." Find more fun things to do in Chicago.

Municipal government websites often end in .gov or .org. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a City of Chicago government site.

The Chicago MSA, now defined by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) as the Chicago–Naperville–Elgin, IL–IN–WI Metropolitan Statistical Area, is the third-largest MSA by …

Apr 29, 2026 · Not sure what to do in Chicago? Check out these essential attractions, amazing nightlife and cultural institutions and more.

Apr 2, 2026 · Chicago's must-visit attractions include museums, vast city parks, jazz clubs, theaters and much more. Contributors: Rhys Thomas, Lindsay Eanet & Shannon Shreibak. Chicago might be …