Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Chicago Instead of Your High School Reunion
So, you’ve been invited to your high school reunion. Exciting, right? Just think about all that awkward small talk, stale potato salad, and the chance of running into your ex—or worse, the person who was voted “Most Likely to Succeed” and actually did. Instead, why not consider a fun trip to Chicago? Below are ten compelling (and humorous) reasons to swap your name tag for a Chicago hot dog.
| Comparison | High School Reunion | Visit Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Awkward Small Talk | “So, uh, what are you up to these days?” | “Did you try the deep-dish pizza?” |
| Food Quality | Stale chips and dip | Chicago-style pizza and gourmet tacos |
| Nostalgia Factor | Flashbacks of high school drama | Art from world-renowned museums |
| Activities Available | Mainly talking about kids or jobs | Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute |
| Fun | Mildly uncomfortable | Epic adventures and unforgettable experiences |
| Fashion Choices | Reliving the fashion faux pas of the past | Get trendy in the Chicago fashion scene |
| Entertainment Options | Slide shows of old yearbook photos | Improv comedy shows, music festivals, and more! |
| Weather | Awkwardly commenting on each other’s age | Perfect for sightseeing (not humid high school gyms) |
| Self-Improvement | Feeling nostalgic about who you could have been | Experience a new city and create new memories |
| Cost | Spending money on gas to relive old times | Invest in hotel stays and fine dining |
1. Food That Won’t Wreak Havoc on Your Taste Buds
At the reunion, you might find yourself wrinkling your nose at the dried-out meatballs and mystery casseroles. In Chicago, you can indulge in delicious deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and Chicago-style hot dogs—no homework, no cafeteria lunch shakes, just food heaven.
2. No More Nostalgia-Driven Drama
High school reunions are basically just nostalgia-fueled drama festivals where you relive every awkward moment from your teenage years. Chicago offers world-class theaters and improvisation shows—where the only drama is guaranteed to be entertaining!
3. Activities That Include Fun and Adventure
Instead of making small talk over ambrosia salad, you could take an architectural boat tour on the Chicago River or experience a thrilling ride at Navy Pier. Trust us: your high school math teacher won’t be there to remind you of the Pythagorean theorem.
4. Meet Real Winners
Forget the “Most Likely to Succeed” at your reunion. In Chicago, you will be amongst real winners: Chefs, artists, and architects that actually live up to their accolades. Ever met a Michelin-starred chef who didn’t remind you of the awkward kid in the back row?
5. Learn Something New
Reunions are predominantly about people who peaked in high school. In Chicago, you can explore the Field Museum or the Art Institute. You’ll learn new things, like how to pronounce “Shedd Aquarium.”
6. Weather That’s at Least Mildly Bearable
Say goodbye to sitting in a sweltering gym, reminiscing over outdated yearbooks. Chicago has stunning architecture and an outdoor culture that encourages you to explore—without the humidity-induced hair frizz!
7. Fashion Forward vs. Fashion Forgotten
While your old classmates may still be sporting styles from the early 2000s, you can enjoy Chicago’s diverse fashion scene. Get trendy at Lincoln Park or catch a cool street market. No one is judging you here… unless you wear socks with sandals.
8. Fun Entertainment
Reunions: mostly awkward music and nostalgia; Chicago: live music, comedy clubs, and sporting events. Forget about stale karaoke performances—this city provides entertainment with a punchline, and maybe a popcorn-filled mouthful, too.
9. Memories You Can Actually Enjoy
Reunions often involve cringeworthy memories that you’d rather forget. Instead, make new memories on a bustling Chicago street, or at a Cubs game. We guarantee these stories won’t involve “that one time you tripped over your own shoelaces at prom.”
10. Invest in Experience, Not High School Drama
A trip to Chicago is an investment in laughter and lasting memories, while a reunion is mainly an investment in reminiscing about the past. Plus, who says no to city skylines, sports events, and beach visits?
So, if you find yourself contemplating a reunion, consider this article as your “friendly reminder” to ditch those plans. Instead of hearing about everyone else’s success, embark on an adventure you’ll actually remember fondly—complete with deep-dish pizza in hand.
So, Why Visit Chicago Instead of High School Reunion?
Because you deserve a lot more than stale chips and awkward encounters! Book your trip to Chicago and find a real reason to catch up with friends—hopefully over some delectable Chicago-style food!
For more inspiration, check out Choose Chicago!
