Chinatown

A pleasingly authentic Chinatown
Noteworthy for: The Chinese-American Museum of Chicago was the first of its kind in America.

Word to the wise: Chicago's Chinese community also has a smaller, more low-key "New Chinatown" around Argyle Street in the city's North Side.
No mere tourist hotspot, Chicago's is a Chinatown with pedigree - there's been a Chinese community here since back in 1869, when Chinese workers fled here to escape violence in California.

This long history has created a pleasing mash-up of architectural styles and a strong cultural legacy. The neighborhood's Cermak and Wentworth Avenues, for example, boast impressive 20th century buildings that meld art deco and traditional Chinese influence, with intricate enamel tiling and tiered roofs both evident in structures such as the grand Pui Tak Center. There's also the fine Chinese-American Museum of Chicago, which charts the history of Chinese communities across the country.

The area also boasts some more modern areas specifically geared to visitors, such as Chinatown Square built in 1993, but there's still a ring of authenticity to the place. Along with the neighborhood's orgy of great Chinese cuisine, this makes it a great place to visit.