Chicago named one of Frommer’s “Best Places to Go in 2026”

Chicago is officially on the world’s must-see map. The city was just named one of Frommer’s “Best Places to Go in 2026,” marking the first time the global travel authority has included the Windy City on its coveted list of 16 standout destinations. Frommer’s credited a blockbuster lineup of cultural openings and celebrations, like the debut of the Obama Presidential Center, the enchanting new The Hand & the Eye magic venue at McCormick Mansion, the Chicago Architecture Biennial, International Jazz Day and the Route 66 Centennial, as reasons travelers should make Chicago their next adventure.

Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago, shared her excitement in a press release over the honor: “From our unmatched culture and culinary scene to our rich history and world-renowned architecture, Chicago continues to inspire visitors from around the globe. With the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, the Route 66 Centennial, the WNBA All-Star Game, and so much more in 2026, there’s never been a more exciting time to experience why Chicago is a city that’s Never Done and Never Outdone.”

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Since its founding in 1957, Frommer’s has been one of the most trusted names in travel, guiding generations of explorers through its beloved guidebooks and online resources. Its annual “Best Places to Go” list spotlights the most compelling destinations around the globe. Alongside Chicago, this year’s list includes far-flung gems like Fiji’s Viti Levu, Argentina’s Patagonia Azul and Portugal’s Algarve region.

Chicago’s recognition by Frommer’s follows a string of major global accolades. Earlier this month, Condé Nast Traveler named Chicago the “Best Big City in the U.S.” for an unprecedented eighth consecutive year. Time Out Magazine also ranked the city among the world’s “Best Cities for Culture”, the only American city to make the list, and named Avondale the fifth-coolest neighborhood on the planet.

The world isn’t just talking about Chicago, it’s coming here. This summer, the city filled more hotel rooms than ever before, with O’Hare International Airport reporting its busiest season in history. Convention attendance has also surged, with major events like the NECA Convention and CHEST 2025 breaking records.

And the momentum is just beginning. Chicago’s 2026 calendar is packed with can’t-miss moments across sports, arts and culture. The city will host the Men’s Big Ten Basketball Tournament, the NCAA Midwest Regional and the WNBA All-Star Game, alongside vibrant local celebrations tied to the World Cup. The NAACP Annual Convention will headline a banner year for meetings and conventions.

See the full Frommer’s “Best Places to Go in 2026” list at Frommers.com.