Welcome to the Newto News for July of 2026. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

For more information, Go to newtomedia.com

Chicago, Illinois, known as the “Windy City,” has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Founded in 1833, Chicago quickly became a bustling hub of trade and industry due to its strategic location on the shores of Lake Michigan. The city grew rapidly, attracting immigrants from all over the world seeking opportunities in the booming economy. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Chicago experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization, becoming one of the largest and most important cities in the United States. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 devastated much of the city, but it was quickly rebuilt with modern infrastructure and architecture. Throughout the 20th century, Chicago continued to thrive, becoming a cultural and economic powerhouse. The city is known for its diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, vibrant arts scene, and iconic architecture, including the Willis Tower and the Bean in Millennium Park. Today, Chicago remains a vibrant and dynamic city, attracting visitors and residents alike with its unique blend of history, culture, and innovation.

The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  1. Healthcare
  2. Technology
  3. Finance
  4. Education
  5. Hospitality
  6. Retail
  7. Construction
  8. Manufacturing
  9. Transportation
  10. Real Estate

The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  1. Hiking
  2. Biking
  3. Fishing
  4. Skiing
  5. Golfing
  6. Wine tasting
  7. Boating
  8. Camping
  9. Shopping
  10. Sightseeing

Average low and high temperature for the month:

Low: 50°F, High: 75°F

Average precipitation for the month:

2.5 inches

Elevation:

2500 feet

Average home price:

$400,000

Average household income:

$70,000

The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  1. Zoo
  2. Museum
  3. Botanical Gardens
  4. Historical Sites
  5. Amusement Park
  6. Wineries
  7. Hiking Trails
  8. Waterfalls
  9. River Cruises
  10. Local Markets

The top 10 restaurants:

Alinea

Lincoln Park

Alinea is a fine dining restaurant led by Chef Grant Achatz. Known for its innovative, artistic cuisine, Alinea offers a multi-sensory dining experience with a focus on contemporary, molecular gastronomy.

Oriole

West Loop

Oriole provides an intimate dining experience featuring a tasting menu of global flavors. Chef Noah Sandoval creates dishes that balance traditional techniques with modern touches.

Smyth

Near West Side

Smyth offers farm-driven cuisine guided by Chefs John Shields and Karen Urie Shields. The restaurant emphasizes midwestern ingredients and the beauty of seasonal cooking.

Topolobampo

River North

Topolobampo, led by renowned Chef Rick Bayless, specializes in upscale Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is known for its complex flavors and beautifully presented dishes.

El Ideas

Douglas Park

El Ideas encourages diners to interact with chefs in an open kitchen environment. Chef Phillip Foss offers a creative tasting menu that challenges traditional dining norms.

Girl & The Goat

West Loop

Girl & The Goat, the flagship restaurant of Chef Stephanie Izard, offers a wide range of bold and globally-inspired dishes. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it’s a staple of Chicago dining.

North Pond

Lincoln Park

North Pond, situated by a tranquil pond in Lincoln Park, offers seasonal American cuisine. With Chef Bruce Sherman’s inventive menu, it celebrates local ingredients and their origin.

Ever

West Loop

Ever is a fine dining experience led by Chef Curtis Duffy. Known for its elegant and artful cuisine, Ever provides a meticulously crafted tasting menu that reflects Duffy’s dedication to modern gastronomy.

Boka

Lincoln Park

Boka offers modern American cuisine with a focus on beautiful presentations and vibrant flavors. The restaurant, led by Chef Lee Wolen, is characterized by its warm ambiance and impressive wine list.

Virtue

Hyde Park

Virtue is known for its Southern-inspired dishes crafted by Chef Erick Williams. The restaurant embraces the warmth of southern hospitality and highlights comfort foods with a refined touch.

Current Events:

Little Big Town - For The Art Of It Tour
Nov 18
Thu • 7:30pm

Little Big Town – For The Art Of It Tour

The Chicago Theatre

Jerry Seinfeld
Oct 09
Thu • 8:00pm

Jerry Seinfeld

The Chicago Theatre

Jerry Seinfeld
Oct 09
Thu • 5:00pm

Jerry Seinfeld

The Chicago Theatre

Jerry Seinfeld
Oct 08
Thu • 7:00pm

Jerry Seinfeld

The Chicago Theatre

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Future Soul 2026 Tour
Oct 23
Thu • 7:30pm

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Future Soul 2026 Tour

The Chicago Theatre

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Future Soul 2026 Tour
Oct 22
Thu • 7:30pm

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Future Soul 2026 Tour

The Chicago Theatre

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Future Soul 2026 Tour
Oct 25
Thu • 7:30pm

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Future Soul 2026 Tour

The Chicago Theatre

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Future Soul 2026 Tour
Oct 26
Thu • 7:30pm

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Future Soul 2026 Tour

The Chicago Theatre

BERT KREISCHER: PERMISSION TO PARTY
Nov 05
Thu • 7:00pm

BERT KREISCHER: PERMISSION TO PARTY

The Chicago Theatre