Chicago is the largest city in the U.S. state of Illinois, and is located along the southwestern shore of freshwater Lake Michigan. The city lies within the humid continental climate zone and experiences four distinct seasons.
Chicago is a major world financial center, with the second largest central business district in the U.S. Manufacturing, printing, publishing and food processing also play major roles in the city's economy. Several medical products and services companies are headquartered in the Chicago area.
The city's waterfront appeal and nightlife has attracted both residents and tourists alike. Over a third of the city population is concentrated in the lakefront neighborhoods (from Rogers Park in the north to South Shore in the south).