![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/loopchicago.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Sundays_on_State_September-250__ResizedImageWzEzMjAsODc5XQ.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\u201cBeing named the Best Big City in the U.S. by Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveler readers for the ninth consecutive year is an extraordinary honor\u2014and one that feels more meaningful than ever,\u201d said\u00a0Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago<\/strong>. \u201cThis recognition comes from some of the world\u2019s most experienced and discerning travelers, and it affirms what we know to be true: Chicago is a world-class city with unmatched beauty, culture, and hospitality. At a time when negative narratives too often overshadow our reality, this distinction helps showcase the true spirit and vibrancy of our city to the world. It\u2019s also a powerful driver for our tourism economy, which generates more than $20 billion annually and supports over 130,000 local jobs. We\u2019re deeply proud of this achievement and grateful to everyone who makes Chicago a destination unlike any other.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThis recognition is a testament to the people of Chicago\u2014their welcoming spirit, creativity, and grit,\u201d said\u00a0Mayor Brandon Johnson<\/strong>. \u201cChicago\u2019s strength has always come from its residents, whose hard work and pride shine through in every neighborhood, restaurant, theater, and hotel across our city. Being named the Best Big City in the U.S. for a record ninth consecutive year is an unprecedented achievement, and it wouldn\u2019t be possible without the dedication of our hospitality workers and industry partners who make visitors feel at home every single day. Chicago truly is the best freaking city in the world\u2014and now, once again, the world agrees.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chicago\u2019s cultural assets are equally central to its success as a global destination. Landmarks, museums, music venues big and small, live theatre, year-round outdoor festivals, arts in every neighborhood, and a world-renowned culinary scene are all magnets for regional and international visitors alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5 MIN READ — Chicago has once again been crowned the\u00a0Best Big City in the U.S. in the Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveler Readers\u2019 Choice Awards, one of the most prestigious recognitions a destination can receive. This is the ninth consecutive year Chicago has claimed this title, a streak unprecedented in the awards program\u2019s more than 30-year history.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":3347,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[58,87],"tags":[14,64,65,55,20],"class_list":["post-4620","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-loop-news","category-stay","tag-cultural-institutions","tag-economic-data","tag-events","tag-get-around","tag-live-entertainment"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/loopchicago.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/312A2963.jpg\")
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