No. 1: Chicago

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No. 1: Chicago

Chicago's long history of architectural innovation has been reinforced over the years with the introduction of buildings such as the Sears Tower and John Hancock Center, and more recently a green roof on City Hall and a wind turbine at the Daley Center. Though the city's inefficient public transit lets it down, 63% of residents surveyed said they found Chicago "well-maintained and attractive," and the city was given top honors in this list of the best U.S. cities for design.