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
Always stay here when I’m trying to save money great location and price
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
The hotel was clean, staff was friendly and very helpful. My room was clean and the breakfast buffet was phenomenal. I recommend this hotel and will be a returning customer.
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
The Chicago Hotel Collection - Magnificent Mile
I paid for room almost $600 but Expedia didn’t send me breakfast.
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent Mile
Our room was directly next to the elevators and it was very noisy all night long. The AC would not go below a certain temperature and it was very warm in the room all night no matter how low the temperature was placed. The room was very small and did not provide a lot of comfort.
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
River Hotel
The property was in excellent condition and excellent location on the riverfront and easy walk to Michigan Ave shops and restaurants. The only downside is that this whole area is extremely loud well past 3am(loud motorcyclists, cars revving and loud music from passing cars). It was impossible to ...
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Freehand Chicago
The location, staff physical place were all great. The bed was clean and super comfortable. Unfortunately the last roommate I got was super noisy. He came in after midnight and switched on all the lights and once he was in bed—he coughed all night. I thought he was maybe really sick…I sort of wished ...
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.
