The force is well and truly with Chicago after Star Wars creator George Lucas announced plans to build a spectacular museum in the city. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art will house treasured possessions from the film-maker's private collection of 500,000 objects, including Star Wars memorabilia and paintings by Norman Rockwell. 

City of Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, said the museum would make Chicago an “unparalleled draw for international tourists”, while Don Welsh, CEO of tourism board Choose Chicago also welcomed the news. Welsh said: “In my 30-plus years working in the visitor industry, nearly four of which have been in Chicago, I can honestly say that a cultural institution of this magnitude is a once in a lifetime investment. “I believe the Lucas Museum will be among the most significant game changers a city could ever hope for in seeking to create jobs and grow visitation.”