Current time in Chicago

Chicago's iconic skyline at golden hour along Lake Michigan is considered one of the world's best urban photography subjects — the glass towers turn amber and reflect in the lake.

Chicago runs on Central Time (UTC-6) — 1 hour behind New York and 2 hours ahead of LA. The natural compromise city for national US broadcasts.

The 'Windy City' nickname has nothing to do with weather — it comes from 19th century politicians who were full of hot air. Chicago's wind is real though, especially in winter.

Chicago deep dish pizza takes 45 minutes to cook. Order it before golden hour and it'll be ready just as the sun sets over the lake. Perfect timing.

Chicago's WGN Radio was one of the first national broadcasters, largely because Central Time meant it could reach both coasts at reasonable hours simultaneously.

Chicago winters are brutal enough that golden hour in January lasts longer than in summer — the sun hangs low all day, giving photographers extended warm light across the frozen lake.