Chicago: an unforgettable week with the magic of Saint Patrick's Day

Several years ago, Madelyn and I spent a week touring one of the most fascinating cities in the United States, discovering its parks, museums, skyscrapers and historical corners.

But we were also lucky enough to coincide with one of the city’s most emblematic celebrations: Saint Patrick’s Day, a party that completely transformed Chicago and left us with an indelible memory.

From the moment we arrived, the city surprised us with its combination of architecture, history and urban life.

Chicago has a very different personality than other large American cities.

On the shores of the immense Lake Michigan, its buildings seem to rise towards the sky while large parks and green spaces offer a perfect balance.

But if there was one image that remained forever etched in our memory, it was that of the Chicago River dyed green.

We arrived precisely for the  Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations, on March 17, when thousands of people gather to witness a tradition that began decades ago and that has become one of the symbols of the city.

Seeing how the river waters acquire an intense emerald green color is truly impressive. The streets are filled with music, Irish flags, parades and a festive atmosphere that infects everyone, even those who have no relationship with Ireland.

I remember our surprise when we saw the number of people gathered on the bridges and along the river waiting for that moment and when the water finally began to turn green, the spectacle was as striking as it was exciting.

During that week we visited some of the best-known places in Chicago.

One of the ones we enjoyed the most was the famous  Navy Pier, an extensive platform on Lake Michigan where there are restaurants, shops, recreational spaces and the iconic panoramic wheel.

Climbing on that enormous wheel was an unforgettable experience and from the top we could contemplate the skyline of the city, the immense lake and the skyscrapers that make Chicago one of the cities with the most impressive skylines in the world.

We also visited the beautiful  Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the United States.

We loved walking its trails, observing the animals and enjoying a green space that seems like an oasis within a big city.

It was a calm and pleasant visit that allowed us to take a break between so many urban activities.

Another place that impressed us was  Millennium Park, where the famous sculpture popularly known as “The Bean” is located.

Like almost all visitors, we couldn’t resist the temptation to photograph ourselves reflected in its shiny surface while we watched the urban landscape multiply around us.

We walked along the elegant Magnificent Mile, one of Chicago’s most famous avenues, full of shops, restaurants and historic buildings.

We also enjoyed touring the river sector, crossing its bridges and admiring architecture that makes Chicago a world reference for those who love urban design.

One of the aspects I liked the most was sharing all of this with Madelyn because traveling with her has always been a special experience.

Her natural curiosity leads her to be interested in the history, culture and particularities of each destination. This makes each tour become something more than a simple tourist visit.

During that week we talked a lot, walked without rushing and enjoyed those shared moments that become even more valuable as the years go by.

When I remember Chicago today I think of a vibrant, elegant and lively city.

I think of the immensity of Lake Michigan, of the skyscrapers reflected in the river, of the panoramic wheel illuminating the night and, of course, of those green waters of Saint Patrick’s Day that seemed straight out of a story.

But above all I remember a wonderful week with my daughter, discovering an extraordinary city together and creating memories that remain alive many years later.

If you go

Chicago, Illinois, United States.

Not to be missed:

• The Chicago River dyed green during Saint Patrick’s Day.
• Navy Pier and its famous panoramic wheel.
• Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Millennium Park and “The Bean”.
• Magnificent Mile.
• Architectural walk through the city center.
• The views of Lake Michigan.

Because Chicago not only gave us a fascinating city, but also the opportunity to experience a unique celebration in the world and share an unforgettable week between mother and daughter.