Chicago is a city of world-class status and unsurpassed beauty, drawing visitors from around the nation and the globe. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan in the heart of the Midwest, Chicago is home to world-championship sports teams, an internationally acclaimed symphony orchestra, renowned architecture and much more. Visitors to Chicago experience a virtual explosion of cultural activity, civic pride and multicultural expression. From stunning architecture and world-famous museums to lakefront parks and vibrant ethnic neighborhoods, Chicago offers a range of attractions which keeps visitors coming back again and again. Whatever your interests, come explore Chicago and discover everything this beautiful city has to offer.
APRIL CLIMATE
Reputed to be the Windy City, Chicago actually ranks 14th for wind velocity in the U.S. The average temperature in April is approximately 48 Fahrenheit. It is recommended to bring a jacket and/or sweater during your visit.
For up-to-date weather information, please visit www.theweathernetwork.com.
TRANSPORTATION
Getting to Chicago
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is located just 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. A complete list of airlines and local ground transportation servicing the Chicago O’Hare International Airport can be found at www.ohare.com/Ohare/OhareHomepage.shtm.
Local Transportation
Chicago is supported by an excellent public transportation system made up of buses and a train system. In the downtown area public transportation (train) operates 24 hours a day and fares start at $2.00. Exact fare is required on the CTA system, specifically on the buses, as operators do not carry change. Taxis are also numerous, provide quick and reliable service and are easily hailed. Most taxis accept cash only; please confirm if credit cards are accepted on a per trip basis.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE
The monetary system in the United States is based on dollars and cents. Most US businesses also accept travelers’ cheques. International currency exchange services are available at the Chicago O’Hare International Airport and throughout the city.
Currency rates (as of February 13, 2009)
$1.00 CDN = $0.81 USD
100 Japanese Yen = $1.09 USD
1 Euro = $1.29 USD
TAXES
Taxes are generally not included in the listed price of items for purchase. Sales tax in the state of Illinois is 6.25%.
TIPPING
Tips or gratuities are not typically added to a bill in Chicago. In general, a tip of 15% of the total amount is considered to be a suitable gratuity. This applies to waiters, waitresses and taxi drivers. At hotels and airports, doorman and porters are
generally offered $1 per item of luggage.
ELECTRICITY
The United States operates on 110V, 60 cycle electric power. Non-North American visitors should bring a plug adaptor if they wish to use their own small appliances from home (razors, hair dryers, etc). If you are visiting from countries, such as Australia, that use a higher voltage, you may encounter problems charging your re-chargeable batteries. US electrical goods come with either a two-pronged plug, or a three-pronged plug; most sockets accommodate both.
