Travel-Mag Readers Rank Chicago The Second-Best Big City
By Stephen Gossett in News on Oct 18, 2016 4:42PM
Chicago is the second best big city in the U.S.—at least according to a readers’ poll by Condé Nast Traveler magazine (New York was voted #1, but whatever). The news is apparently music to Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s ears, as the mayor looks to pump-up Chicago’s tourism industry amid increasing “political recovery” chatter.
Here’s what Condé Nast Traveler wrote, making reference to the indeed-positive announcement that the James Beard Awards ceremony will stay in Chicago through 2021: (Be warned: there’s a “second city” mention in the very first clause.)
“Despite its “Second City” nickname, Chicago is no stranger to the best: It was the center for the biggest architecture biennial in North America this year and home to a number of innovative chefs earning James Beard accolades. When in doubt, take a boat tour of the city and float beneath some of the country’s tallest buildings; catch stand-up at, well, the Second City; or see if you can actually get a reservation at Alinea, a leader in molecular gastronomy.”
Emanuel predictably took the opportunity to champion the travel, vacation and business sectors. “Chicago is breaking tourism records and creating thousands of jobs that reach every corner of the city,” he said in a press release. “This recognition shows that our efforts to bring even more visitors to the city are working and driving economic opportunities in Chicago's neighborhoods.”
Chicago is indeed a great city with spectacular architecture and great restaurants (second to none, har har!), but the news proves just as much that, well, Rahm reads the headlines. Recent local and national examinations speak of “third terms” and “political rebounds;” and the firing-away PR machine would indicate that Rahm isn't apt to let that slip, if he can prevent it. Just make sure to thank Grant Achatz, Mr. Mayor!