Chicago is celebrating a milestone in the travel world: its tenth consecutive year as the “Best Big City” in the United States in Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

The 2026 recognition extends a winning streak that began in 2017. Nearly 800,000 readers participated in this year’s awards surveys, with Chicago once again leading among America’s major cities.

Its appeal spans everything from distinctive architecture and lakefront scenery to neighborhood restaurants, cultural institutions, and major events. Together, those experiences have helped keep Chicago a favorite among returning visitors and first-time travelers alike.

The recognition follows a strong year for the local tourism economy. According to Choose Chicago, the city welcomed 56.8 million visitors in 2025. Their spending reached a record $21.5 billion and supported 135,360 jobs throughout the region.

Chicago also added more than 2,100 tourism-related jobs that year. Its hotel sector recorded annual highs across several measures, including leisure room demand, revenue, average daily rates, revenue per available room and hotel tax collections.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker welcomed the award, highlighting the skyline, waterfront, restaurants and neighborhoods as reasons travelers continue to return. Mayor Brandon Johnson credited the residents, communities, cultural organizations and local businesses that shape visitors’ experiences.

To celebrate the achievement, Chicago has proclaimed Saturday, October 10, “Best Big City Day,” with activities and special offerings planned around the city.

Among the festivities is a “Perfect 10” boat DJ set by house music pioneer Lori Branch along the Chicago Riverwalk. The Chicago Blackhawks will also mark the occasion during their October 10 game at the United Center.

Local food and drink businesses are joining the celebrations. Eli’s Cheesecake is offering special pre-packaged cheesecake flights, while Goose Island Beer Company has created a limited “Perfect 10” beer to commemorate the award.

Chicago leads a list featuring several other popular urban destinations. San Francisco, Boston and New York City follow in second, third and fourth place, respectively.

Milwaukee completes the top five, giving the Midwest another strong showing. Its Lake Michigan setting and award-winning restaurants helped earn it a place among readers’ favorites.

For Chicago, the tenth consecutive win arrives alongside record visitor spending, giving the city both a tourism milestone and a reason for a citywide celebration.