Context
Chicago, known as the Windy City, offers a unique blend of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning architecture. During my time in the Global Experience (GEx) Chicago, an Independent Study Module by NUS centered around Agriculture, I had the opportunity to explore both the city's agricultural initiatives and its iconic architectural landmarks. This blog post delves into my experiences, sharing my favorite agricultural insights and architectural highlights in the city.
This blog post continues from the previous one, which occurred after my Student Exchange Programme (SEP) at NUS. Both NUS College (NUSC) and non-NUSC students are able to attend, and it involves conferences with various universities, community farmers, and networking sessions. Overall, this blog emphasizes the atmosphere, iconic scenes, and architecture of the city.
Previously mentioned universities include the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois Chicago, University of Chicago, and Northwestern University.
Introduction
Chicago, known as the Windy City, is a vibrant metropolis that offers a unique blend of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning Chicago architecture. During my time in Chicago, I had the opportunity to explore its iconic landmarks, indulge in its famous culinary delights, and immerse myself in the local culture. My Chicago travel experiences were filled with exploration, from the famous deep-dish pizza to iconic landmarks like Cloud Gate. Here are some of my favorite experiences and must-visit spots in Chicago.
Deep-Dish Pizza Delight in Architectural Marvels
One of the first things I did during GEx Chicago was to dive into the city's renowned culinary experiences, starting with its legendary deep-dish pizza. The vibrant restaurant atmosphere and the rich, cheesy layers made this a memorable introduction to Chicago's flavors.
Other City Favourites: s
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No experience in Chicago would be complete without trying the Chicago Style Hotdog, a signature item famously served at Portillo’s. This hotdog, with its unexpected toppings like a pickle almost as long as the hotdog itself, brought a new twist on flavors that felt both unique and nostalgic.
Historical Insights
Chicago’s rich history and innovation can be seen in its museums, with the Museum of Science and Industry standing out as a must-visit site. Located near Soldier Field, this museum showcases both historical artifacts and the latest advancements in science, making it an essential stop for any NUS student on GEx Chicago. Surprisingly, my Singaporean Military Identification Card (11b) even allowed me to bring six additional guests for free, an unexpected perk that made the visit even better!
Military Identification Document Usage
During my visit to the Museum of Science and Industry, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that my Singaporean Military Identification Card (11b) allowed me to bring in six additional guests for free. I had expected such discounts to be available only to U.S. citizens, not foreign military personnel. Additionally, I noticed that I could receive military discounts not just in most museums, but also at O’Hare Airport for food, beverages, and purchasable items.
Iconic Cloud Gate
Cloud Gate, known more widely as “The Bean,” is another iconic attraction that every NUS student on GEx Chicago should experience. This reflective sculpture in Millennium Park perfectly captures the city’s dynamic spirit and provides a stunning backdrop for photos. Watching the crowds move around Cloud Gate was a highlight, as was taking long-exposure photos to capture its unique vibrancy.
Skyline Views
One of the most spectacular aspects of Chicago's iconic architectural landmarks is its skyline, particularly when viewed during a Chicago River cruise. The views at sunset are mesmerizing, with shades of purple reflecting off the water and buildings. The architecture along the river, a blend of historic and modern designs, tells Chicago’s story—from its rise after the Great Chicago Fire to its current status as a center of design and commerce.
Green Spaces
Outside the bustling downtown, Chicago has serene green spaces. Near Northerly Island Park, a beautiful creek opens onto Lake Michigan, and it’s especially picturesque during sunset. The flowers lining the shores add to the natural beauty of the area, providing a relaxing escape from the city’s urban pace.
Chicago River
The Chicago River itself is not only an iconic landmark but a historical and engineering marvel. Known for playing a critical role in establishing Chicago as a hub for commodities trading, it also has a fascinating backstory, with engineers reversing its flow to improve sanitation—a feat that aligns with the city's legacy of innovation. Walking along the Chicago Riverwalk offers a firsthand look at these architectural achievements, where you can appreciate structures like Marina City (nicknamed the "corn cob" towers), Trump Tower, and the historic Chicago Tribune building.
The Chicago River also holds a vast history, playing a crucial role in establishing Chicago as the origin of commodities trading. Additionally, the river is a testament to advanced engineering feats, including the reversal of its flow to improve sanitation and navigation.
Moreover, the Chicago Riverwalk offers a scenic pathway along the river, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the city’s architectural marvels. This urban oasis is perfect for leisurely strolls, dining, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Chicago. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply looking to experience the city’s unique charm, the Chicago River and its surroundings are a must-visit destination.
Urbana-Champaign Visit during GEx Chicago
Our GEx Chicago journey also took us to Urbana-Champaign in the first week, where we attended conferences and learning sessions at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). From the busy academic schedule to the more relaxed, immersive experiences in Chicago, the transition felt seamless as we explored the city and its architectural landmarks in the weeks that followed.
Conclusion
Overall, the GEx Chicago experience for NUS students gave me an in-depth look at the city's agricultural innovations and stunning architectural beauty. I hope this blog post inspires my fellow students to explore both the agricultural wonders and architectural marvels of Chicago during their exchange.
that pizza looks bussin !
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