Visiting Chicago

HappyMommy28

Hello Ladies,

   I'm  not from Chicago but have a few questions regarding it.  My friend and I will be visiting in a few weeks.  We do not plan on driving around the city but taking the el train everywhere.  Would it be better to stay in the city (on the mag mile front) or would it be better to stay near the airport.  I know the air port is cheaper but we would kind of like to be closer to everything. 

Also, what is there to do for two gals who wont be hitting the clubs or bars?  Any restraunt suggestions?  

Oh and any area's that we should avoid?  Thanks in advance!

mmoulis

I would definitely stay in the city so that you are closer to what you want to see. ?The el is the best way to get around. ?Try naming your price at Priceline - I know a lot of people who have gotten really good deals at downtown hotels that way.

?There will be plenty for you to do! ?The museums are great, lots of shopping, even consider relaxing along the lake for an afternoon. ?Not sure when you'll be here, but there are great weekend fests in Grant Park - as well in different neighborhoods around the city. ?The orchestra plays a free show at Millenium Park a couple nights a week, which is a great way to spend an evening.

As far as restaurants - my favs are Frontera Grill or Topolobampo (Rick Bayless' Mexican places), Avec, and Publican (both in the near West Loop). ??

Enjoy your visit! ?Summer is a great time to be in Chicago.?

DTNZ4Ever

I agree stay downtown and you can get great deals on hotels. I agree with the PP the museums are great, Millenium/Grant park are beautiful city parks, of course shopping Michigan Ave. The Willis Tower (Sears Tower) is great to check out the views or go to the Hancock building and have dinner/cocktails at the Signature Room which is fun too.

 

madgeypadgey

Definitely stay downtown. It's SO easy to get to both airports from downtown anyways, so there's no need to stay all the way out there! You'd most likely be coming into the city every day anyways...so save yourself a daily trip!

 I agree with the PP about naming your price at Priceline. I did it several times for friends and they ended up staying at the Palmer House Hilton and the Marriott. They were both LOVELY! 

 I agree with checking into the festivals in Grant Park. I also think you guys could relax by the water one day, or even rent one of those easy sit-down bikes (you're on it together, it's more like a cart- so fun!). I recommend the museums (more specifically the aquarium- my fave). The Lincoln Park Zoo is free, also. 

Many people who visit think the mag mile is "Chicago". But if you ask anyone here, we all agree that it's the neighborhoods that make this Chicago. Try visiting Armitage on the brown line- great shops and restaurants...such a cute neighborhood. Also try Division off the blue line and walk west- such great shopping and unique boutiques! The Southport stop on the brown line is another great shopping/eating destination with great boutiques and restaurants. 

 Hope you have fun- I love living here!