Chicago Police say it’s safe to come downtown for the holidays and visit restaurants and businesses, but one business owner says he’s heard that too many times before. CBS 2’s Charlie De Mar reports.

Chicago’s Sports Events Culture

Among the many things Chicago does well is the sports scene. While there are no professional sports teams in the Windy City, there are numerous amateur sporting teams to pique the interest of the average Joe or Jane. In fact, Chicago has been dubbed the sports capital of the Midwest, boasting over three million residents. The city’s athletic culture has also been lauded for its “melting pot” nature.

For starters, the city has a plethora of baseball stadiums and athletic facilities, such as Soldier Field, the home of the Chicago Bears. Although it isn’t always easy to root for the Bears, the team has a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century. The city has also been home to the Heisman Trophy, which is one of the most prestigious prizes in college football.

The city also plays host to a slew of museums and art galleries, including the Shedd Aquarium, home to the largest collection of freshwater fish in the world. There are also many great shopping, dining and entertainment options for visitors of all ages in the city. As for the sport itself, the Bears aren’t the best, but they do have a solid fanbase.

One of the more interesting facets of the city’s sports culture is its burgeoning sports enthusiast community. The city’s amateur sports culture has earned it the dubious distinction of the “sports capital of the Midwest” and is home to the Chicago Blackhawks, a team that has won two Stanley Cups. In the grand scheme of things, the team has been responsible for generating some $600 million a year for Illinois.