United States
Chicago
Welcome to the United States! Chicago is a bustling city on the shore of Lake Michigan, known for inventing the modern skyscraper, its bold downtown skyline, and a giant fountain that shoots water high into the sky.
Why is it famous?
Chicago sits on the shore of Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes, which is so enormous you can't see the other side.
The city is often called the birthplace of the modern skyscraper, and its downtown skyline is packed with record-breaking towers.
How did it grow so big?
A huge fire swept through Chicago in 1871 and destroyed a large part of the city.
Instead of giving up, builders rebuilt Chicago bigger and stronger than before, using new techniques that let them build taller than ever — including some of the world's very first skyscrapers.
Amazing facts
The Willis Tower (once called the Sears Tower) was the tallest building in the world for about 25 years after it was finished in 1973.
Navy Pier stretches far out into Lake Michigan and has a giant Ferris wheel, gardens, and boat rides all in one place.
Quick facts
- The Willis Tower (once called the Sears Tower) was the tallest building in the world for about 25 years after it was finished in 1973.
- Navy Pier stretches far out into Lake Michigan and has a giant Ferris wheel, gardens, and boat rides all in one place.
- Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park is one of the largest fountains on Earth and can shoot water more than 45 meters (150 feet) into the air.
- Every year on St. Patrick's Day, the Chicago River is dyed bright green as part of a citywide celebration.