14 Crazy Nicknames for Chicago And the History Behind Them

There are many a’ nicknames for Chicago!

And that isn’t surprising.

Chicago is a great American city. It was home to Chicago Bulls, with Michael Jordan. As well as the White Sox.

And the white city is the most populous city in Illinois. It is also the third most populous city in the United States, behind Los Angeles and New York.

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The Best Nicknames for Chicago

Perhaps most famously Chicago’s nickname is the windy city. But there are a lot of other nicknames that we have for Chicago City.

After all, Chi-Town is the home to Michigan Avenue, was home to the World’s Columbian Exposition – also known as the Worlds fair.

It hasn’t all been good though. There were tragic events like the Great Chicago Fire. Which destroyed almost 18,000 buildings.

Throughout its history, the city has earned a lot of different names. Let’s discover them! And go into the history behind nicknames in Chicago.

Most Common of the Nicknames of Chicago: The Windy City

Chicago is often called the “Windy City” because of the prevailing winds that blow across the city from the west. In 1876, the Cincinnati Enquirer about a tornado that hit Chicago. After Charles Dana used the term to describe the city’s politics. Mainly the Chicago Politicians which were often seen as being full of hot air. The name caught on. And it quickly becomes the most popular city nicknames.

Strange Nickname for Chicago: Mud City

There are a few nicknames for Chicago, but Mud City is one of the most popular. The nickname comes from the city’s history of it being built on mud flats. In the early days of the city, the mud from the Chicago River was a major problem for businesses and residents. The nickname is a reminder of the city’s humble beginnings. This isn’t the most popular name for Chicago. But it is perhaps the oldest nickname for Chicago.

Popular Chicago Nickname Chi-town

Some people like this is a more modern nickname for Chicago, thanks to a Kanye West song Homecoming. But the first reference to Chicago being called Chi city dates back to the late 1800s. It is from taking the shortening of the first word down, as we see in many other nicknames around the world. Shortening Chicago – to Chi.

Charming Chicago Nickname: City in the Garden

This Nickname for Chicago is based on the motto “urbs in horto,” meaning “city in a garden.” The motto was likely chosen to reflect the city’s commitment to green space. As of 2022, there are over 7,600 acres of parkland in Chicago, which is about 10% of the city’s total metropolitan area. This includes extensive parks like Lincoln Park and Grant Park, as well as smaller neighborhood parks and community gardens.

Popular Chicago Nickname: The City of Big Shoulders

First referenced in the Poem “Chicago” by the Poet Carl Sandburg.

This Chicago nickname is about the city’s physical size and the strength and resilience of its residents. Chicago is a city that has always been known for its hard-working citizens. In the 19th century, the city was a major stop on the Underground Railroad, and it played a significant role in the labor movement.

Today, the city is home to a diverse population of people from all over the world. Chicago is a city that has something for everyone, and its residents are proud of their city’s nickname.

Why is Chicago Called Shy Town

There are a few nicknames for Chicago. But the most popular one is “Shy Town.” There are a few theories why this nickname came about. But the most likely explanation is that it’s a reference to the city’s reputation as a shy, reserved place. Chicagoans are known for being friendly, but they’re also known for being introverted. And not as outgoing as people from other cities. This nickname reflects that reputation.

Most Accurate Nicknames of Chicago: Heart of America

One of the most flattering nicknames for Chicago is the “Heart of America.” This nickname comes from the city’s location in the Midwest region of the United States. We know Chicago for its friendly residents. As well as its beautiful architecture, skyscrapers, boulevards, and its rich history.

But this nickname for Chicago stems from the fact that the city is also a major transportation hub. With two international airports and an extensive network of railways and highways. Chicago is a major hub, traveling from out west to experience the best eat coast road trips. Or vice versa.

These factors make Chicago a very special place to live, work, and visit. The first of many attractions of Route 66 starts in Chicago. And one of the most famous Illinois nicknames.

Old School Nickname for Chicago: My Kind of Town?

There are many nicknames for the Windy City. But one of the most popular ones is “My Kind of Town.”. And Frank Sinatra originally performed the song in the film of the same name. The lyrics of the song talk about how great Chicago is, and how there is no place like it in the world. The nickname has stuck. And ever since and is now used by locals and visitors alike.

Paris of the Prairie

Chicago is often referred to as the “Paris of the Prairie”. Because of its architecture, beautiful skyline, and bustling city life. The nickname is a testament to the city’s strong French influence; in the early 1800s, Chicago was a major hub for French fur traders and immigrants. Today, you can still see traces of French culture throughout the city, from the many art museums and cafes to the annual Bastille Day celebration. But this nickname for Chicago also references Daniel Burnham’s plan to reform movement in the city in the early 1900s. Adding a lot of parks and boulevards to the city’s infrastructure.

The Second City

There are a few different theories why Chicago is called the Second City. One theory is that the city was second-largest to New York in terms of population in the 1800s. Another theory is that the city was second to New York in terms of economic importance in the early 1900s. Whatever the reason, the nickname has stuck. And the Second City is now one of the most popular nicknames of Chicago.

Funniest Nickname for Chicago: Smelly Onion

A funny nickname for Chicago. And the origins are unknown. Perhaps the best guess is that it gets this nickname from the Miami-Illinois native American culture. And their word shikaakwa, or “wild leek” or “onion”. The Miami-Illinois were the original inhabitants of the Chicago area, and the name is a reference to the large number of wild leeks that grew in the area. French explorer Louis Jolliet was the first recorded in name in 1673 was the first to use it, you can learn more about Louis in our explorer quotes. These shikaakwa are not of the cities’ better attractions.

Illinois Nicknames for Chicago: Chicagoland

They nicknamed Chicago Chicagoland because it is the largest city in the state of Illinois and it is the third largest city in the United States. And because it is one of the best places to visit in the United States. The city has a lot of skyscrapers, memorable architecture, and other attractions. And one of the most well knows Chicago Illinois nicknames.

That Toddlin’ Town

Chicago is a city in the United States that has many nicknames. And one of its most popular nicknames is “That Toddlin’ Town,”. Popularized by a song of the same name written by Frank Sinatra. The nickname refers to the city’s bustling streets and lively nightlife.

There are a lot of fun Chicago Nicknames. But even on without these funny names, it is worth visiting. And there are plenty of attractions in Chicago. It is a city popular for its architecture, its professional food, and its contemporary museums and art communities. Chicago is home to some of the most iconic buildings in the world, including the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center. It is a great destination in America.

I hope you enjoyed learning about the best nickname for Chicago.