Each year, readers of Condé Nast Traveler vote their favorite American cities. It is always exciting to read about the cities that emerge as exciting destinations or trend-setting in some way. Condé Nast’s 34th annual survey of over 80,000 readers revealed their favorites in several categories.
In the category “Best Big Cities” in the US, Chicago has emerged as the top contender once again—actually, for the fifth year in a row. Best Big Cities are the cities that spark imagination for the visitors with lasting memories of their art scene, cutting-edge restaurants and innovative architecture. But nowhere this is more evident than in Chicago—that has been trying to live by its forefather’s advice since 1890s. Paraphrasing Winston Churchill’s expression, Daniel Burnham famously said “make no little plans; they have no magic to stir man’s blood.” And the city has been trying to live by that maxim ever since. Second City? Not by any measure. Chicago is world class in so many categories—including theater that that expression comes from.
So, it's no wonder that Chicago is topping this list once again. According to the survey participants, the birthplace of American architecture, Chicago is “A world-class destination known for its inspiring architecture, unrivaled museums, trailblazer chefs, and enormous brewing scene—not to mention 29 miles of beautiful beaches right downtown. So, plan for a return trip because it will take several repeat visits to get through the list of must-dos.” Most people start downtown—from the Magnificent Mile to the swanky Gold Coast to hip Old Town, from Bridgeport to Logan Square—but there are more than 77 neighborhoods to explore, where you'll find ground-breaking restaurants, chilled-out corner taverns, and, no matter where you go, some of the most pleasant people you'll find anywhere.
With those accolades, Chicago should top the list of potential destinations for your next incentive program. Let professionals at GMS design the perfect program for your next incentive trip that would wow your participants for a long time after.