CHICAGO, October 9, 2026 – While decades ago it may have been of concern to local promoters of rival regions or changes in tourist preferences, the vote is in once again. Chicago has been awarded its tenth consecutive year as Best Big City in the U.S. in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards for the unprecedented ten-year period beginning in 2017 and running all the way to 2026. No other metropolitan region in the country has yet managed a “Perfect 10” decade sweep, securing Chicago’s place as the top destination of national travel rankings.
The achievement was marked by the city government’s designation of October 10 as “Best Big City Day,” and to celebrate its ten years of being awarded the title, Chicago’s tourism organization Choose Chicago has partnered with local businesses across the city’s 77 community areas.
So, what is it that draws hundreds of thousands of people each year? This should be no secret for locals having dinner late at night in West Loop or enjoying views of the Chicago skyline from Riverwalk. From world-class theater performances in the Loop to top-notch cuisine and cozy brew pubs in Logan Square, the city has a unique urban vibe that can truly be felt.
As mentioned by the staff at local hospitality businesses, the accolade highlights the hard work of front-line service workers, chefs, and neighbors who help to make the city welcoming to millions of visitors every year.
The tourism statistics supported by Choose Chicago and the city’s data prove just that. Last year alone, the city received 56.8 million visitors, who spent an unprecedented $21.5 billion while creating 135,000 local jobs in hotels, restaurants, and the cultural industry. And despite changing trends in global travel, the popularity of the city stays constant.
The designation means that Chicago is well ahead of other large coastal cities such as San Francisco, Boston, and New York. In terms of promotion for municipal governments, the ten-year streak is an excellent opportunity before the start of autumn and winter seasons.
While the regional discussion will continue forever, there is not much arguing left to do by the people.
