Chicago has done it again — and then some. For the tenth consecutive year, Condé Nast Traveler has named Chicago the Best Big City in the United States, a milestone that marks a full decade of the city holding the top spot in one of travel’s most prestigious reader-driven rankings.
The achievement, announced by Choose Chicago, the city’s official tourism organization, is a record-breaking distinction that no other American city has matched. Ten straight years atop the Condé Nast Traveler list is a testament to what makes Chicago so enduringly beloved: its world-class architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, celebrated dining scene, iconic lakefront, and the warmth of the people who call it home.
Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards are among the most closely watched in the travel industry, reflecting the genuine opinions of millions of travelers who vote based on their real experiences. For Chicago to earn the top honor year after year speaks to the city’s remarkable consistency in delivering memorable experiences to visitors from across the country and around the world.
Choose Chicago, which works to promote the city as a premier destination for tourism, conventions, and special events, highlighted the recognition as a reflection of the city’s ongoing appeal and the collective effort of its hospitality community, cultural institutions, and residents who make guests feel welcome.
Whether it’s a first-time visitor strolling the Magnificent Mile, a food lover exploring the city’s diverse culinary landscape, or a culture enthusiast taking in world-class museums and live music, Chicago continues to deliver experiences that keep travelers coming back — and keep the accolades rolling in.
Ten years. Ten titles. Chicago’s reign as America’s Best Big City shows no signs of slowing down.
Sources: Choose Chicago