Top reasons to visit Downtown Chicago
- Stunning Skyline: Marvel at Chicago's iconic skyline, featuring breathtaking skyscrapers that define the city's architectural beauty.
- Dynamic Riverwalk: Stroll along the scenic Chicago Riverwalk, offering picturesque views and vibrant dining options.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with the city's rich cultural scene, from live music to theatre performances in lively venues.
- Urban Parks: Enjoy the green spaces within the city, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of lodgings, catering to various preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Downtown Chicago
Discover a range of exceptional accommodations in Downtown Chicago, where every traveller can find the perfect fit. From pet-friendly options to business-friendly facilities and LGBTQIA welcoming environments, our hotels cater to diverse needs. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chicago while enjoying the comforts of well-appointed lodgings, including the renowned Wyndham Chicago Downtown. Your memorable stay in the heart of the city awaits.
- Congress Plaza Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Downtown Chicago, Congress Plaza Hotel is a 3.5-star establishment known for its blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. Rated 8.0 out of 10, this hotel attracts business travellers and shoppers alike, with its prime location in the bustling shopping district. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities designed for comfort, including spacious rooms and versatile meeting spaces, making it an ideal choice for those balancing work and leisure.
- Best Western Grant Park Hotel: A budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, Best Western Grant Park Hotel is perfect for families seeking a memorable getaway in Downtown Chicago. Located conveniently in the shopping district, this hotel offers child-friendly amenities, such as complimentary cribs and a hearty breakfast for children. Its welcoming atmosphere and focus on family needs ensure a pleasant stay for those travelling with little ones.
- LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton: For those looking to indulge in luxury, LondonHouse Chicago offers a sophisticated experience with a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This 4.5-star hotel features a spa and pool services, providing a serene retreat amidst the city's vibrancy. Its prime location in the shopping district allows easy access to local attractions. The combination of upscale accommodations and rejuvenating treatments ensures a tranquil escape for travellers seeking relaxation and style.
Where to stay near Downtown Chicago
Downtown Chicago offers a vibrant mix of urban life and scenic beauty, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore iconic attractions such as the stunning city skyline and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere of this bustling centre. With easy access to nearby neighbourhoods, your Chicago getaway will be filled with diverse experiences, from business hubs to picturesque parks. Discover the charm of this dynamic city and create unforgettable memories during your stay.
- Chicago: As a vibrant metropolis, Chicago serves as the heart of the Windy City and your gateway to an unforgettable urban experience. Downtown Chicago is the bustling core, where visitors can immerse themselves in an array of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and city-themed attractions. The city is renowned for its impressive shopping districts, entertainment arenas, and world-class theatres. Notable landmarks include iconic sports facilities, picturesque urban parks, and a lively tourist precinct, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers. Although visitor numbers peak during the summer months, Chicago offers a year-round appeal with unique seasonal experiences.
- Magnificent Mile: A mere 805m from Downtown Chicago, the Magnificent Mile is a shopper's paradise and cultural hub. This neighbourhood attracts visitors throughout the year, with peak seasons in March to April and July. Families and outdoor enthusiasts flock to this area for its vibrant city atmosphere and diverse attractions. You'll find an array of shopping venues, educational experiences, and entertainment facilities, all within walking distance. The nearby tourist precinct, urban parks, and sports stadiums provide an engaging backdrop, ensuring there’s always something to see and do.
- The Loop: Also located 805m from Downtown Chicago, The Loop is an iconic neighbourhood known for its architectural marvels and cultural richness. Travellers are drawn to The Loop for its family-friendly environment, outdoor spaces, and city-themed experiences. This bustling area features a variety of shopping options, entertainment arenas, and theatres, making it an exciting destination for all. With close proximity to popular tourist attractions, urban parks, and sports facilities, The Loop offers a dynamic blend of activities that cater to every visitor's interests, regardless of the season.
Things to do in Downtown Chicago
Shopping
In Downtown Chicago, visit The Magnificent Mile, a vibrant stretch lined with flagship stores and luxury boutiques. For a unique experience, explore the bustling Chicago French Market, where you can find artisanal goods and local delicacies, perfect for gifts and souvenirs to remember your trip.
Recreation
In Downtown Chicago, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Spa at the Four Seasons, where skilled therapists use premium products for a soothing experience. Alternatively, explore the tranquil atmosphere of the Wellness Lounge, offering yoga and meditation classes amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Adventure
Explore the thrill of the Chicago River by joining an exhilarating kayaking tour, where you can paddle through the heart of the city, admiring stunning skyscrapers. For a unique perspective, take a scenic architectural boat tour that unveils the rich history and design of Chicago’s iconic buildings.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Downtown Chicago buzzes with energy, featuring venues like the iconic Jazz Showcase, where live music fills the air, or the stylish Aviary, known for its innovative cocktails. For a vibrant dance scene, head to Smart Bar, where DJs spin eclectic tracks until the early hours.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Chicago
To save money during your visit to Downtown Chicago, consider travelling between December and February, when accommodation prices are lower. Mondays are the least expensive days to book, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to refine your search for budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. For free activities, explore the city's parks and public art installations, and utilise the affordable public transport system to navigate the city efficiently.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Chicago are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown Chicago is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Chicago is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation in Downtown Chicago with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Downtown Chicago
Downtown Chicago is ideal for family, outdoor, and city-themed holidays, featuring iconic skyscrapers, urban parks, and historic buildings. Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences while exploring attractions like the Chicago Riverwalk and the scenic Chicago River. This vibrant area offers a perfect blend of activities for travellers seeking family-friendly adventures and urban exploration.
- Michigan Avenue: Known as the Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue is a bustling thoroughfare featuring high-end shops, restaurants, and iconic architecture. The vibrant city atmosphere is perfect for leisurely strolls, shopping, and enjoying the urban energy of Downtown Chicago.
- Navy Pier: A beloved destination, Navy Pier offers stunning views of Lake Michigan along with a variety of attractions including restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The friendly vibe and scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for families and couples alike.
- Millennium Park: This urban oasis provides a blend of art, culture, and outdoor spaces. Visitors can relax on the lawns, admire public art installations like Cloud Gate, and enjoy seasonal events, making it a fantastic place for families to explore.
Best time to go to Downtown Chicago
The best time to visit Downtown Chicago is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Chicago
Arriving in Downtown Chicago is convenient with two major airports at your disposal. Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is situated 26km away, with nearby hotels such as the 4.5-star Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel and Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago, both only 3km from the airport. Alternatively, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is located 14km away, with luxurious options like the 5-star Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago and The Langham, Chicago. For those considering Milwaukee, General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is 121km from Downtown, featuring excellent hotels such as the 4.5-star Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, just 10km away.