Earlier this month, we revealed that Chicago was voted the second most beautiful city in the world by the 27,000 readers that responded to the annual Time Out Index survey. But our fair city also earned another top honor: the second most fun city in the world. Only Tel Aviv, Israel was ranked higher, with voters commending its ample nightlife, a variety of outdoor activities and one of the region's largest Pride celebrations.
Still, the results of the Time Out Index survey solidified Chicago position as the most fun city in the United States. The Second City narrowly beat out Miami (which came in third place), a city that is well-known for it's bustling clubs, beautiful beaches and interesting museums. As for the city that was voted least fun? That'd be Rome... apparently Time Out readers don't really care for tours of the Colosseum, walking the narrow streets of Trastevere or taking part in the Eternal City's nightlife.
What makes Chicago so much fun? Well, there's a long list of reasons, and it likely starts with the sheer number of amazing things to do in Chicago, from taking in exhibitions at a Chicago museum to seeing the city spread out below you from atop the Willis Tower Skydeck. No matter what side of the city you find yourself on, there's a beautiful Chicago park where you can relax, Chicago beaches where you can hang out by the lake (when it's warm enough) and a local music venues where you can watch a concert. In the spring, summer and fall, you'll find festivals and events taking over streets throughout the city—heck, there are even winter festivals like Christkindlmarket and the Empty Bottle's annual Music Frozen Dancing block party.
We could go on, but it's pretty clear that Chicago is a place where just about anyone can find some fun ways to spend their time. Record-setting Chicago tourism numbers from 2018 prove that even people who aren't lucky enough to live in our city think that it's a pretty fun spot to visit.
For even more analysis of how some of the world's major metropolises stack up against one another, take a look at Time Out's ranking of the best cities in the world. And if you need some inspiration for a fun day in Chicago, just keep on reading Time Out Chicago.