Settling Into Chicago After You Move

Moving to Chicago can be stressful. It's a big city and you may not be used to the atmosphere. However, there are some ways you can settle into Chicago easier.

When you move, it's usually an exhausting process. There's plenty of packing and unpacking to do. Add in a big city you're not used to and it could become even more exhausting. Here are a few tips to help you with settling into Chicago once you arrive.

• Get Acquainted with your Neighborhood

Many neighborhoods in Chicago are very walkable. A great place to start when you arrive is with the places closest to your home. Check out a local bar or restaurant within walking distance and start to get the lay of the land.

• Discover the Transportation System

The CTA or Chicago Transit Authority will become your best friend when you move to Chicago. You want to get used to using this system and learn how to get to and from the places you will frequent. If you're starting a new job, it may be a good idea to do a dry run to learn the transportation before you go in for your first day.

• Remember the Streets are a Grid

Chicago has one of the best grid systems in the world for the streets. However, it can still be confusing if you're not from here. The center of the grid is where Madison Street and State Street intersect.

From there, it's important to understand all east-west street addresses and north-south addresses are labeled as such. Odd numbers are on the south and east sides of each street and even numbers are on the north and west side. In addition, the addresses will increase or decrease depending on how close you are to the State and Madison Street intersection.

• Get Out and Mingle

Chicago is filled with great events happening every weekend and all year long. If you happen to arrive at the right time of year, you can enjoy a big event right from the beginning. If not, find a smaller event and get out and mingle.

Going to any type of event could be a great way to meet people and start to settle into the city. It will help you understand what Chicago is all about and you may just make a couple new friends.

• Take a Tour

If you really want to get to know Chicago, there are several great tours you can take. From an architectural tour to a historic tour, you can tour the city and get an idea of where you are in comparison to things to do and places to see.

• Be Prepared for the Weather

One of the biggest mistakes new residents in Chicago make is not being prepared for the weather. Chicago has four seasons and winter can be harsh. However, summer can be very hot and you want to be prepared for the season. Prepare before you move and you will be happy you did when you arrive.

While settling into Chicago can be difficult, it doesn't have to be. You can start by hiring a moving company to make moving day easier. Then, when you arrive, get out and enjoy the city the first weekend you are here.

Moving to Chicago's Suburbs: What You Should Know About Each Area

Your family is growing, you're ready to move outside the city, and the suburbs are calling you. Chicago suburbs have plenty to offer and moving outside the city provides a great option, but which suburb is right for you?

When it's time to move, The Professional Moving Specialists have you covered. Whether you're moving inside the city or out to one of the top Chicago Suburbs, we're here to help.

Let's look at the North, West, and South Chicago suburbs to help you make the right decision.

Chicago North Suburbs

Offering several great suburbs, Chicago North Suburbs provide plenty of options for all types of residents. Buffalo Grove is one of the most popular options with great schools, plenty of growth, and less traffic.

Those seeking a suburb just three miles outside the city will enjoy living in Glenview. This suburb is technically a village and offers plenty of charm throughout. It's known for high-ranking public schools, good entertainment options, and plenty of things to do throughout.

A few other great Chicago North Suburbs to consider include:

• Northbrook

• Arlington Heights  

• Long Grove

• Evanston

Whether you're moving to one of these northern Chicago suburbs or another one, The Professional Moving Specialists will help you with all your packing, moving, and unpacking needs.

Chicago West Suburbs

Choosing one of the Chicago West Suburbs may just fit with where you want to live. Aurora offers a top choice just outside the metro area of Chicago. It's known as the City of Lights and provides good schools, beautiful architecture, and plenty of employment opportunities in manufacturing and technology.

Another great choice found to the west of the city is Naperville. This suburb is located in the Illinois Technology and Research Corridor making is a great choice for those in the fields of engineering and technology. It has been known as a top suburb in the entire country and provides excellent events, along great public schools.

A few other excellent Chicago West Suburbs to consider include:

• Clarendon Hills

• Wheaton

• Addison

• Batavia

When it's time to move to one of the western Chicago suburbs, you can count on The Professional Moving Specialists to help move your things to your new suburban home.

Chicago South Suburbs

Many great suburbs are located to the south of Chicago. Chicago Heights is one of the top choices with a massive industrial center. This suburb offers great employment opportunities, along with beautiful historic homes and plenty of good schools to consider.

Another excellent choice, especially if you love historic heritage is Crete. This suburb provides plenty of charm with major transportation options offering plenty of access to the city.

Other Chicago South Suburbs to consider include:

• Hazel Crest

• Homewood

• Park Forest

• University Park

No matter which Chicago suburb you're moving to, we will help you with all your packing, transportation, and unpacking needs. Our team of professional movers covers a large number of suburbs. Find a complete list of the Chicago suburbs we provide residential moving service for here.

3 Things to do this Winter in Chicago After Your Move

Moving to Chicago is a big deal. During the winter there are plenty of things to do throughout the city. It's actually a wonderful time of year to move to the city.

Once you've settled in a little bit, you'll want to get out and see the city. Here's a look at three fun things you can do this winter in Chicago after your move.

Take a Walk Down Michigan Avenue

It's iconic. It's filled with attractions. It's Chicago at its finest. A stroll down Michigan Avenue will introduce to you to so much Chicago has to offer including the Magnificent Mile.

It only gets better that you get to stroll down Michigan Avenue in the winter time. During the holiday season this part of the city is amazing. Plus, the Magnificent Mile Holiday Lights Festival will be taking place all November and December. You can also enjoy plenty of activities including concerts, parades and fireworks shows over the Chicago River!

Check out the Lincoln Park Zoolights Festival

Seeing Lincoln Park is amazing on its' own, but when you go for the Lincoln Park Zoolights Festival you'll get to experience something special. More than 2 million lights will be up and ready for you to enjoy at the Lincoln Park Zoo. The event is free and includes plenty of themes throughout including ice carving demonstrations, synchronized music and lights show and even carolers. You will enjoy some of the finest ice art in the city, along with so much more.

The best part, you can grab a little hot cocoa and enjoy the light with someone special. This is a great spot for a winter date and if you just move to Chicago, maybe you moved for a special someone or you're ready for a first date.

Enjoy some Incredible Sports

The Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Bears are both in season when winter rolls around. You can even catch the Chicago Blackhawks if you love hockey. Catching a football game is always fun and will introduce you to an iconic stadium, as well.

The Bulls are another great show in town and the tickets will likely be less expensive than the Bears. If you love hockey, catch a Blackhawks game and you'll be glad you did.

There's nothing better than getting acquainted with your new city by catching a sporting event. It will help you get into the spirit of Chicago and help you really feel likely you're at home in your new city.

Chicago is filled with plenty of great things to do and there's no shortage of great places to go and see during the winter. If you're planning on moving to Chicago in the Winter, and you want to have some fun once you arrive, enjoy these three options. You'll be happy to get out and enjoy your new city as you take in the sights along the way.