Set along the shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a city that has truly redesigned itself. After the Great Fire of 1871, Chicago became the birthplace of modern American architecture; now immense skyscrapers and high-rise buildings populate the downtown area. Shops boasting the newest fashions line the Magnificent Mile, and lush parks populated with displays of modern art draw scores of people downtown. Chicago's performing arts scene is famous for its improv comedy shows and distinctive blues music. Like the rest of the city, Chicago's signature foods, from Chicago hot dogs to deep-dish and stuffed pizzas, are undisputedly unique.