5 Things You Didn’t Know About Chicago

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If you’ve ever been to Chicago, you know the city is packed with endless history and attractions. There’s no good reason not to experience it at least once. The facts below about the Windy City might surprise you. The more you know, the more you’ll want to go. (And power to you if you already live there!)

1. Chicago has the second largest collection of impressionist paintings…behind the Louvre.

You wouldn’t necessarily peg Chicago as an artsy city that rivals creative meccas like Paris. Head to the Art Institute of Chicago to see amazing works of art for yourself.

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2. You can see four separate states from The Skydeck.

The Skydeck sits on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, formerly the Sears Tower, which is the eighth-tallest building in the world. The deck offers incredible views of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan.

3. Chicago was the first city to debut an all-color television station.

WMAQ-TV was the first full-color television station to roll out on April 15, 1956, and it debuted exclusively in Chicago. The station ushered in a new era of media and changed the world as America knew it.

4. One of Chicago’s major streets is the longest continuous street in the world.

Western Avenue, which runs directly through center city, measures 23.5 miles. If you’re down to walk the whole thing, make sure to clear the whole day. You’ll need it.

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5. Playboy started in Chicago.

Hugh Hefner started the iconic publication in Chicago. Originally from the city, Hefner started the first Playboy Club on 116 E. Walton Street soon after the magazine hit stands in the Windy City.