I am going to Beijing to visit my sister and will be in China for about 6 days. I understand that a VISA is required for this visit, but I was wondering if I can go to any of the US Consulates, rather than the one assigned to my region. I live in Ohio, which falls under the jurisdiction of the New York Consulate, but it is much more convenient for me to go to Chicago (as I have family there and could visit)

Is it expectable to go to the Chinese Consulate in Chicago, rather than the one in New York to obtain my VISA – even though I am from Ohio and therefore this is not the assigned consulate?

Thanks in advance for any insight!!!