Often called the 'Second City', Chicago is number one when it comes to culture, fine dining, shopping and commerce. Situated on Lake Michigan, incomparable architecture erupts from its western shores. The Downtown area is known as the 'Loop' since the raised metropolitan railway (known as the 'El' or 'L') circles the central business and shopping district. Just east of it is Michigan Avenue, an upscale shopping area a few blocks from the lake.[ view all ]