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Chicago named best big city in US by top travel magazine for 8th consecutive year

By Maggie Duly
Published  October 1, 2024 8:11am CDT
Chicago
FOX 32 Chicago

Chicago dubbed best big city in US by top travel magazine

Condé Nast Traveler readers have named Chicago the best big city in the country for the 8th year in a row. The esteemed honor comes after a record-breaking summer for tourism in Chicago.

The Brief

    • Chicago has once again been named the best big city in the United States by Condé Nast Traveler readers, solidifying its position as a top destination in the country.
    • The city's recent success, including hosting major events and experiencing record-breaking visitor numbers, contributed to this award.

CHICAGO - For the eighth year in a row, Chicago has been crowned the Best Big City in the United States by the Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards. 

This prestigious recognition highlights the city's unparalleled blend of culture, culinary excellence, and experiences.

Governor J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed their pride and gratitude for this achievement, emphasizing the hard work and dedication of Chicago's tourism and hospitality industry. 

"The rest of the world is catching on to the fact that there’s truly no more dynamic destination in America than right here," Gov. Pritzker said.

Chicago voted best big city after successful summer

The Chicago tourism industry had a successful summer thanks to events like the DNC, Lollapalooza and NASCAR. To make it even sweeter, Chicago was named the best big city in America for the 8th straight year by Condé Nast Traveler readers.

The award comes on the heels of a historic summer for the city as Chicago hosted the Democratic National Convention, Lollapalooza and the second NASCAR Chicago Street Race. The city had record-breaking hotel bookings, tourism revenue, and international visitor arrivals.

"Chicagoans know that our city is second to none," said Mayor Johnson. "And now we have yet another incredible accolade to prove it. This honor is a testament to the strength, warmth, and resilience of Chicagoans and the beauty and vibrancy of our neighborhoods. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, there is always something to explore in Chicago."

The award is based on votes from over 575,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers. Chicago has earned recognition as the best big city in the US since 2017, more than any other city since Conde Nast Traveler began the Reader's Choice Awards 37 years ago.