Hi, I was wondering if anyone had any advice and tips on a short Chicago trip in April. I would like a good hotel recommendation for my family and myself. We are particularly interested in going to the Art Institute and would prefer something within walking distance of it. BTW, I have an 18 year old and a 12 year old. Any info and advice would be so appreciated! I've been once several years ago but only for one day. Thanks!
Posted by
SE Pennsylvania
2367 posts
I'll be in Chicago briefly in August, mainly to see the Cézanne exhibit at the Art Institute. I have a reservation at the Silversmith, which is within walking distance and seems well regarded.
https://www.silversmithchicagohotel.com
Posted by
Fort Myers, FL
1658 posts
Buses run up and down Michigan Avenue. Easy to get to the Art Institute. I would look at hotels on or near Michigan Avenue, north of the Institute. Taxis are plentiful as well. So you don't have to be right near the AI.
Posted by
11126 posts
I have lived in Chicago and agree that the buses go up and down Michigan Avenue frequently. There are many hotels north of the Chicago River so look at those, River North, Streeterville as well as in the Loop( business) area where the AIC is located. Hopefully their restaurants will open again soon.
Posted by
Last Frontier aka Alaska 🏔️
3204 posts
We went to Chicago last June and stayed at London house. Right across from the river and next to Michigan Ave. walking distance to the Art Institute which is fabulous. Don’t miss the Thorne rooms, they are a WOW! Hard to find them, down on lower level.
Posted by
Edmonds, WA 🌨 ☂
11138 posts
have an 18 year old and a 12 year old.
Boys, girls, both?
Posted by
OP
5 posts
Thank you everyone! I did not know about the bus system as my town doesn't have a reliable service. I just don't think of them. Anyway, going to check out those hotels mentioned. Any others I should consider? Any restaurants or cool stuff I shouldn't miss?
Posted by
OP
5 posts
Hi Joe, I have both.
Posted by
Lockport, IL
119 posts
I highly recommend a Chicago architecture boat tour. They are about 90 minutes long and wonderful! Well worth it.
Posted by
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
4066 posts
We stayed here https://www.guestreservations.com/homewood-suites-by-hilton-chicago-downtownmagnificent-mile/booking?gclid=Cj0KCQjw8_qRBhCXARIsAE2AtRZfqKtlORvooK9Y9ZBnZ7DI3KkuRnySr5zktTbLTVAfWCuFbKH-pcQaAsVAEALw_wcB
North of the river along the Mile. About a 20 minute walk to the Art Institute. Great location to restaurants as well.
Posted by
Sioux Falls, SD, USA
3044 posts
Restaurants:
Topolabampa: Rick Bayless' high-end Mexican restaurant
CHICAGO HOT DOGS: We go to Portillo's which is a Chicago chain. There are dozens of others
Chicago Italian beef: Essentially a French dip sandwich with peppers
Chicago deep dish pizza
Berghoff: Bavarian food, house beer
Russian Tea Time: OWNED BY UKRAINIANS
Eating downtown is fun. I lived in the 'burbs for years, but haven't been much back since 2013.
Posted by
Sioux Falls, SD, USA
3044 posts
When you go to the Art Institute, it's probably sensible to buy a family membership. I'd also consider the Field Museum (natural history, Sue the tyranosaurus), Shedd Aquarium, Oriental Institute (U Chicago Campus), Roby House (FL Wright house), Science and Industry Museum. Another stop would be Chinatown - ask about "dim sum" (Chinese tea lunch). There is a great dim sum place which has (or had) 90% Chinese folks - authentic.
Posted by
11126 posts
Look at Westin, Marriott on Michigan ave and Hyatt on Wacker.
Posted by
2285 posts
The OP has been there and now done that. In other words, the best before date, has expired.