So you are hiring Madison long distance movers and moving to Chicago. Whether you are moving for work or leisure, this beautiful city has many great opportunities to offer. But keep in mind that, like all cities, Chicago isn’t perfect; it has both advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is important to know in advance where you will be heading in order to avoid unexpected surprises. In short, if you love diversity, different cultures, sports, and art, but don’t mind the cold, Chicago is for you. Here are some more things to know before moving from Madison to Chicago.
1. Get used to the cold
Even though you’re from the Midwest, winters in Chicago can be harsher than you’d expect. Of course, there is a reason why it is called the Windy City. Therefore, in addition to freezing temperatures in January, there is the wind blowing from all directions. That can be a big problem after moving from Madison to Chicago.
You will also miss the sun after you leave work, which will make it feel later than it is. Despite the many indoor activities in winter, many residents can feel lonely and even depressed. This is the “hibernation” season when almost no one goes out.
And those who go out rush in five layers of heavy clothes to get to the right place
As awful as it sounds, most Chicagoans can say that if you can bear the winters, all other Chicago trials will be easy walks. So, after finishing the unpacking process, grab some heavy blankets, a humidifier, and a winter jacket and you should be fine.
2. Get to know the CTA
As with other cities, there is not much parking space there. And even if you manage to find a place, it will be expensive. So, if you are about to leave your car, the CTA will be your best friend, with the ability to travel almost anywhere in the city. Be sure to study the map as it will have different colors for each route, as well as stops at which you can cross the lines. When you feel more confident with trains, you can include bus routes by coordinating pick up and arrival times with train stops.
3. Consider ditching your car after moving from Madison to Chicago
Other than visiting friends and family in the suburbs, there is practically no reason to own a car in Chicago. Since CTAs and cycling are cheap and efficient, you can count on them to get you to your destination in the shortest possible time. And since Chicago is one of America’s top green cities, even walking should be taken into consideration.
If you ask Chicagoans who still drive, they will say that it is the most stressful part of their day. Everything from traffic jams, parking fines, speed cameras, parking fees, and reckless driving will scream that it’s not worth it. Let alone rake in money for monthly payments and maintenance.
Plus, if for any reason you still need to use the car, just call your Uber or Lyft driver. Let them pay the moral and financial cost of owning a car in the city while you sit and relax in the back seat.
4. Take advantage of summer activities and festivals
Although it is cold for many months of the year, Chicago has some amazing features not to miss in the warmer temperatures. Everything from the beach, rooftop bars, parks to the famous Lollapalooza music festival. You won’t have a problem finding activities on weekends.
Fun is something you will not lack after moving from Madison to Chicago
Although, when you actually go to these places, you will find that everyone will be talking about the weather. How can they not do this when it is constantly changing? With temperatures starting at 35 degrees in the morning and up to 60 degrees by noon, you may find yourself doing the same with a stranger on your way to work in the morning!
5. Go to at least one sports game
Everyone knows that the Chicago Bears are one of the worst football teams in the NFL. But the city’s fans remain loyal, hoping they make it to the Super Bowl one year. In winter, everyone escapes the cold temperatures and flocks to sports bars to watch the famous Blackhawks. After winning the Stanley Cup three times in five years, don’t be surprised to hear screams from your local bar during game nights.
Just as each season brings new emotions to sports fans in Chicago, you may find yourself invited to one or more Chicago Cubs or White Sox games in spring or summer. Even if the home team does not win, you can expect enough fun with fans to make the game worthwhile. You also wouldn’t want to miss the food.
6. Visit beaches whenever possible
Unlike New York and Los Angeles, Chicago does not border the ocean. But it does have everything the beach has to offer. Even though they can only be visited during the summer months, the Chicago beaches are one of the best places to hang out with family and friends to swim, play volleyball, and finally get a chance to work on your tan.
Another big benefit of these beaches is that tourists don’t pay much attention to them. This allows you, who moved there with one of the long distance moving companies Chicago, to get to know the locals on the 26 miles of sandy beach. Among the most popular beaches are 31st Street Beach, recommended for parents and children, Montrose Beach, recommended for residents with dogs, and North Avenue Beach, recommended for the best entertainment. There is so much to see and enjoy on these beaches.
If you come to one of the Chicago beaches, you will never get bored
Get ready to move to Chicago
As you can see, moving from Madison to Chicago is definitely fun after getting to know its food, events, culture, sports, traditions, and more. And despite the cold weather, real estate and traffic problems, it’s easy to fall in love with the Windy City. But, as in any city, you don’t want to blindly check-in and hope for the best. Doing research ahead of time can help you prepare mentally, emotionally, and financially for what to expect when the big day comes.