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.
Michigan Avenue
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Things to do
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission
Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Top hotels in Essex
Congress Plaza Hotel
"O"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
"Excellent stay!!! Staff was very helpful and breakfast was delicious. We will stay here again!!!"
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
The Chicago Hotel Collection - Magnificent Mile
Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent Mile
"Staff is excellent. Breakfast was below standards - muffins, fruit, juice, and a couple breakfast sandwiches the staff put in the microwave. I’d pass on the breakfast. Nice location. Rooms were okay - the bed in our room was full of cat scratches."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
River Hotel
"My stay at the River Hotel was excellent from start to finish. The location is unbeatable, making it easy to explore the surrounding area, and the views were a great bonus. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with everything I needed for a relaxing stay."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Freehand Chicago
"This hotel is well located but not clean at all. I asked for room service and they never cleaned the room (we were there for 6 nights)."
Reviewed on 18 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.
