Essex Travel Guide
Chicago
Popular places to visit
Wrigley Field
Tour the iconic grounds and catch a game March through September at Chicago’s beloved baseball stadium.
Naval Base Great Lakes
After visiting Naval Base Great Lakes, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in North Chicago. Wander the lakeside in this family-friendly area.
Navy Pier
A ferris wheel, shopping, restaurants and more can be found in this waterfront entertainment district.
McCormick Place
Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Millennium Park
A landmark gathering place for locals and visitors who come to admire the unique art, architecture and landscape.
Things to do
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission
Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Top hotels in Essex
Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent Mile
Cool and perfect for our short trip to Chicago. Room was a bit small, but worked well to sleep in for two nights. The location on the magnificent mile worked perfect to accessing public transportation and tourist bus tours. Lots of great restaurants around the area and it was easy to walk everywhere ...
Reviewed on 6 May 2026
River Hotel
The manager was mean and not understanding and had horrible customer service. The towels had stains on them. The carpet smelled mildewy. Just definitely did not look like a 4 star hotel.
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
Centrally located hotel with breakfast included. Reasonable pricing for a new hotel. Recommended
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Congress Plaza Hotel
Hotel has a beautiful lobby but rooms are very outdated. Elevators are specially slow, may take you over 5-7 minutes just to get down to first floor.
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop, Chicago
Waited 10 minutes for someone to actually appear at front desk upon check in, and when they did arrive, only directed guests to kiosks to check in themselves. No welcome, no review of property or amenities, no ID check. Bed felt like it was 2 decades old at best, springs felt throughout and saggy. ...
Reviewed on 6 May 2026
Holiday Inn Chicago Dwtn - The Mart by IHG
The Holiday Inn Voco at Wolf Point continues to exceed expectations! Warm, welcoming staff, spotless rooms and outstanding service by housekeeping! I call it my home away from home and I stay there frequently when visiting our children! Spectacular views, inviting atmosphere and stay second to none! ...
Reviewed on 4 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Essex
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is noteworthy for its museums, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Lake Michigan and Robie House.
Near South Side
Travellers choose Near South Side for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Cermak-McCormick Place Station or Roosevelt Station and check out top sights like Soldier Field.
South Loop
Soldier Field and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in South Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Roosevelt Station or Cermak-McCormick Place Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops.
Theatre District
While you're in Theatre District, take in top sights like Michigan Avenue or State Street, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Washington Station or Monroe Station (Blue Line).
Near West Side
Live music, theatres and shopping highlight some notable features of Near West Side. Make a stop by United Center or Credit Union 1 Arena while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Polk Station (Pink Line) or Racine Station to get around town.
The Loop
Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in The Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Washington Station or Lake Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.
