Training in Chicago
Discover the diverse and vibrant city of Chicago. With a population of nearly three million, Chicago is the cultural, industrial, commercial and entertainment center of the Midwest. Famed for its iconic architecture, it is the birthplace of the skyscraper and home to dozens of cultural landmarks including the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum and Navy Pier. Outdoor enthusiasts in Chicago enjoy swimming, running, biking and other sports on the many parks and beaches along Lake Michigan. The city’s nationally-known museums draw millions of visitors each year, and those who enjoy the performing arts have many options, including the world-renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Lyric Opera of Chicago and nationally-recognized theater groups.
Streeterville
Northwestern University's Chicago campus is located in the Streeterville neighborhood of Chicago, along the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan. The size and diversity of Chicago and outlying suburbs is apparent in the exceptional clinical experiences that our programs are able to offer thanks to our Consortium member institutions.
Streeterville is only one of the many neighborhoods in this exciting city full of unique pockets that reflect the many cultures that live here. No matter your interests – sports, art, music, theater, fitness, food, family entertainment – there are endless options. Just a few blocks away from the medical campus, there is shopping on Michigan Avenue’s “Magnificent Mile,” as well as thriving nightlife in the many restaurants, bars and clubs of the Rush Street and River North areas.
Chicago Neighborhoods & Housing
Streeterville is just one of the many unique neighborhoods in Chicago. Learn more about Chicago neighborhoods. To assist with the apartment search, MedResidences is an apartment finding service specifically tailored to meet the needs of medical professionals. Learn more about MedResidences.
Getting Around Chicago
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) runs the nation's second largest public transportation system. With 129 bus routes and 8 rail lines, it serves 3.5 million people in Chicago and 35 suburbs. Use the Quick Trip Planner to find directions using public transportation.
Dining
The Chicago classic deep dish pizza is only one of the many food options in this city. Explore Choose Chicago's Food & Drink guide to discover the diverse cuisines and restaurants across the city. For residents and fellows on the Chicago campus, the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine's app includes dining options nearby: download the app here.
Visit the official City of Chicago website for more information.
Chicago Fun Facts
- Third largest city in the United States
- Home to 26 miles of lakefront
- On a clear day, you can see four states from the top of the Willis Tower Skydeck
- Chicago Park District is the largest municipal park manager in the nation, owning more than 8,800 acres of green space
Discover Chicago
Museums & Art
There are dozens of museums, art and cultural institutions across Chicago. There are also free admission days throughout the year. Check out Choose Chicago to learn more.
Theatre & Performing Arts
Chicago is home to more than 200 theaters, from small community theaters, award winning theater companies and historic theaters.
Attractions
Check out Time Out's list of the 17 best Chicago attractions.
- Chicago Riverwalk
- Garfield Park Conservatory
- Millennium Park, where you will find Cloud Gate, aka the Bean
- Navy Pier
- The 606, 2.7 miles of trail, parks and artwork
Events
There is so much to do in Chicago, from sports games to music festivals to outdoor movie nights. Visit the resources below to find events in the city throughout the year.
Housestaff & Alumni Perspectives
Resident and Fellow engagement is highly valued at McGaw and opportunities for involvement across the medical center are abundant. McGaw is a great fit for those seeking clinical training and leadership opportunities at an urban, academic medical center. Additionally, Chicago offers the amenities of a major metropolis while remaining more affordable than many comparable cities, resulting in a higher standard of living.
Adnan Hussain, MD, '17 GME
Chicago has a plethora of experiences that you can participate in. There is always an opportunity to try something new. There is no other city better than Chicago in the summer. The music, food and dance festivals are unmatched. I chose to train at Northwestern because of the well-known reputation for cancer care, the commitment to diversity, the people, and the location.
Jennifer J. Parker, MD, PhD, '18 GME
I chose Northwestern after having the opportunity to rotate here as a fourth-year medical student. I felt that their strong tradition of surgical excellence, high quality facilities, commitment to research, and high expectations from their trainees would arm me moving forward with the best surgical training available. Also, I was welcomed by the faculty and housestaff to their family and have really come to enjoy living in Chicago as well!
Courtney L. Furlough, MD, ’22 GME
From the opportunity to live in Chicago to receiving world-class training and mentorship, McGaw was an easy choice. From day one, you join an environment focused on education, wellness, and giving you the tools to succeed. Residency is an incredible time where you grow both clinically and professionally -- I’m thankful to McGaw for the opportunity to take advantage of it all.
Sarah N. Sanders, MD, ’19 GME
I chose Northwestern because of their beautiful facilities, research opportunities, and their commitment to diversity through the Northwestern McGaw Underrepresented Residents and Fellows Forum. My radiology training was excellent and has allowed me to succeed in a very competitive market. Chicago is a great city with plenty of entertainment to enjoy on your days off. My experience at Northwestern was phenomenal!