I want to live in Chicago

[RedemptionBass]

Last I checked, there was a no-politics rule in OT.

It's all about ones level of vagueosity.

 

[GregC]

It's all about forcing one's political views on others in a thread that didn't ask for them.

Fixed your post.

 

[GregC]

Ahh.. Chicago.

Murder capitol of the nation (despite a gun ban)
Highest sales tax in the country (10.25%)
Highest gas prices in the country
Bumper-to-bumper traffic
FREEZING cold air blowing off the lake in the winter

Sounds like a winner to me...

1. See posts on page 1.
2. Yeah, that does suck, but the city does support the arts very well, keeps the place clean and does a pretty good job when it snows.
3. Public transportation--I fill my tank maybe once every 6 weeks.
4. See above. Plus, bumper-to-bumper women!
5. That's the biggest negative for me. But the lakefront itself is wide open, which makes for great views when driving or riding the bus on Lakeshore or walking/running/biking.

Eilif and lethargy mentioned a lot of the great things about the city. I'd just add that it's a live-music mecca, and if you choose your neighborhood well, you can walk the streets at night just fine and get plenty of great food within walking distance of where you live. I bet there's at least 30 places to eat within a half mile of my apartment.

I've lived in suburban sprawl, small- and medium-sized towns, warm and cold climates. So far, Chicago's the winner for me. It's not for everyone, but what place is?

It also looks like everyone in this thread who either lives here or used to still digs it. I can see why Illinois folks who live elsewhere might not, it's a pain to drive into the city for a visit. Gotta do the park and ride, I guess.

Don't forget the $12.00 hamburger.

I'll let you know when I see one. Food's pretty reasonable here, for the most part.

As for the murder rates...don't forget that last year Chicago (with its gun control laws) was tied with Houston, TX and Dallas, TX (both smaller, both with more lax gun restrictions?).

Shhh, you're messing up his mantra.

 

[Tired_Thumb]

Ruined your parade.

Fixed your post, but we'll quit talking about whether or not Jerry Reinsdorf is a corrupt politician.


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If you ever go to Chicago, some of the best charms are within a day's reach too. If you can make it out to Ottawa, Starved Rock is a good hiking destination. Also, if you enjoy biking, make sure to research the I & M canal. That's a large distance of biking one can do. Also, the forest preserves of Cook County are some great scenery, and if you head out into Lemont, you can find the only natural canyon in Illinois. I'll think of some other things later.

 

[lowendgenerator]

"FREEZING cold air blowing off the lake in the winter"


Actually, it's 5 to 10 degrees warmer by the lake than inland. And the wind typically moves from west to east.

Living due south of the lake is fun though, we get all that lake effect snow. Chicago can get 2 inches, and I get a foot. I can't wait.

I must say, being born and raised in and around Chicago, that there is no other city like it. There's so much cultural diversity here, and aside from a few shady areas, the whole city welcomes you like a friend. I'm so glad that I get to play, eat and perform in such a great town.

 

[hbarcat]

The museums in Chicago are world class but they've jacked up the admission prices and then you have to spend even more to see the featured exhibits. On top of that is the expense of parking (or public transportation) and the food.

It costs me a small fortune to take myself and my daughter to the museum (or zoo or whatever) for the afternoon.

 

[TheNorm]

I'll be moving to Chicago in February--can't wait. Lincoln Park area most likely.