Chicago Is Full of Surprises (Deep-dish details nearby)
Think you really know Chicago? It's a city with a reversed river that could confuse a compass, the infamous Bean, and a Chicago Handshake that combines Malört shots and Old Style Beer...a rite of passage at best and a punishment at worst. Who knows, the wind might just blow you into Chicago itself and, after that, good luck leaving this gorgeous city!
Anna, Our Local Expert Guiding Your Move
Anna landed in Chicago after a string of moves that included San Diego (goodbye sunshine and beach days), London, Santiago, and a ship at sea. She lives in the Loop for strategic reasons, not just the vibes. She quickly discovered that Midwest nice is a real thing and is adapting. She's even given up being a vegetarian... the constant temptation of Chicago dogs was just too strong. And pepperoni on the tavern style pizza (no, not the deep-dish kind) is a game changer. At Snappy Scout, Anna brings local insight, travel perspective, and a very real understanding of why Illinois surprises people who think they already know it.
Read moreWritten with local insight from Snappy Scout relocation experts
What Makes Chicago Chicago?
The weird, useful, and surprisingly relevant facts that shape everyday life here.
A Local Event Worth Experiencing Once
St. Patrick's Day in the city! Even more than Lollapalooza, this event brings Chicago together each year for a weekend of festive fun.
— Anna Shoultz
Illinois Local Expert
Ready to See If Chicago Fits You?
Compare cities, check the routes, or head back to the full Chicago guide for the bigger picture.