Chicago Hotel & Travel Destination Guide

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Country Code: US
Source: Fastcheck Arrival Guides

Population:
2.8 million

Currency:
Dollar, 1 $ (USD) = 100 cents

Opening hours:
Opening hours vary but are generally 10am-7pm. Some stores have later hours on Thursdays.

Tourist information:
Chicago Office of Tourism
Address: 77 E Randolph Street
Tel: +1 312.744.2400
www.cityofchicago.org/tourism

Chicago

Chicago, the U.S.’s third largest city, nuzzles the shores of the picturesque Lake Michigan, which serves as the backdrop for its dazzling skyline. A vibrant, international city, it boasts world-class museums, cuisine and nightlife. The numerous outdoor parks and miles of lakefront paths are a wonderful attraction for sporty types, while the exclusive shops & restaurants appeal to the sophisticated visitor. Chicago is also the birthplace of modern jazz and blues, so an excursion to one if its many clubs is a must for music novices and aficionados alike.

Chicago City

Chicago is the largest city in the Midwest, and is really a blending of the east and west coasts of the United States. Chicago has the big city attractions of New York, with the more relaxed attitude and friendly people of Los Angeles.

Chicago is unique in that it is a thriving, bustling, metropolitan area that manages to feel homely at the same time. The ethnic diversity, multi-cultural neighborhoods and close proximity of these neighborhoods, make Chicago a true melting pot and are what define this feeling of ease and comfort.

The main tourist areas of the city are very close together, which makes it an easy city to explore. A leisurely walk, or a short bus or taxi ride will expose you to the famous museums, breathtaking architecture, exclusive shops and delectable restaurants -all that Chicago has to offer.

Although internationally famous as the “windy city”, Chicago’s weather is not what coined this term. Chicago has a colorful political history, and it is these politicians, known as “windbags” because they were full of “hot air”, which gave this city its nickname. The weather in Chicago can be a challenge, and while the winter, especially during Christmas time is glittering and festive, April-November is the best time to visit.

Things to See and Do in Chicago

For information about Chicago’s many exciting events and activities you may call toll free 1.877.CHICAGO (1.877.244.2246) or visit www.cityofchicago.org/tourism If you are calling from outside the United States, Mexico, and Canada, please call 1.312.201.8847. The TTY toll-free number for the hearing impaired is 1.866.710.0294. Chicago tourism information is also available on the Internet at www.cityofchicago.org/ExploringChicago.

Magnificent Mile
Chicago’s answer to New York’s Fifth Avenue. A bustling, pedestrian friendly high end shopper’s paradise. It has at least 460 stores, 275 restaurants and 51 hotels.
Address: Michigan Ave. Chicago River to Oak St

Architectural River Cruise
The Chicago Architecture Foundation offers an hour long cruise down the Chicago River, giving a history of Chicago Architecture with an enchanting view of the city.
Address: Michigan Avenue & the River. Southeast corner of the bridge. Blue awning.
Opening hours: Seasonal, see home page for more information.
Phone: +1 312.902.1500
Price: Price: $28-$30
Internet: www.cruisechicago.com

Art Institute of Chicago
World’s largest collection of Impressionist paintings outside of the Louvre in Paris, along with numeral special exhibitions.
Address: 111 S. Michigan Avenue
Opening hours: Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 10:30am-5pm; Thurs
10:30am-8pm; Sat & Sun 10am-5pm
Phone: +1 312.443.3600
Internet: www.artic.edu/aic

The Field Museum
In 1997, Chicago’s famous natural history museum, purchased Sue, the largest, most complete and best preserved Tyrannosaurus Rex ever discovered.
Address: 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive
Opening hours: 9am-5pm Daily
Phone: +1 312.922.9410
Internet: www.fieldmuseum.org

John G. Shedd Aquarium
The aquarium is the largest indoor aquarium in the world.
Address: 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive
Opening hours: 9am-6pm Daily; Thursdays 9am-10pm
Phone: +1 312.939.2426
Internet: www.sheddaquarum.org

Navy Pier
A family attraction that features entertainment, amusement park rides, shopping, dining, lake front cruises, and more than 50 acres of gardens and parks.
Address: 600 E. Grand Avenue
Opening hours: Pier itself is always open. Shops & attractions vary in hours.
Phone: +1 .312.595.7437 (PIER) or +1.800.595.7437
Internet: www.navypier.com

Robie House
This 1909 creation is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most famous houses in the prairie style. Designated by Wright himself as “the cornerstone of modern architecture”.
Address: 5757 S. Woodlawn Avenue
Opening hours: Tours only: Monday-Friday 11am, 1pm, 3pm; Closed on Tuesday & Friday in February; Saturday & Sunday 11am-3.30pm; Saturday & Sunday 11am- 3:30pm, every half hour.
Phone: +1 773.834.1847
Internet: www.wrightplus.org

Sears Tower
The tallest building in North America, and the third tallest building in the world. Stunning views!
Address: 233 S. Wacker Drive
Opening hours: May-September 10am-10pm daily; October-April
10am-8pm daily
Phone: +1 312.875.9696
Internet: www.thesearstower.com

Dining in Chicago

In the United States, Chicago has a reputation second only to New York for world class restaurants. Chicago’s food is as diverse as its population. Every kind of food is available here-Greek, Mexican, Ethiopian & Vietnamese, as well as gourmet French and American cuisine. Chicago is also famous for its deep dish pizza. No visit to Chicago is complete without sampling this delight.

Gino’s East Pizzzeria
The best of the best in Chicago for their world famous deep dish style pizza.
Address: 633 N. Wells
Opening hours: 11am-9pm Sunday-Thursday; 11am-11pm
Friday & Saturday
Phone: +1 312.943.1124
Internet: www.ginoseast.com

Le Colonial
French influenced Vietnamese cuisine astounds at this elegant restaurant. High ceilings, louvered shutters and rotating ceiling fans transport you to a romantic, colonial Vietnam.
Address: 937 N. Rush Street
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am-2:30pm; Monday-Wednesday 5pm-11pm; Thursday-Saturday 5pm-12am; Sunday 5pm-10pm
Phone: +1 312.255.0088
Internet: www.lecolonialchicago.com

Japonais
Contemporary Japanese with a stunning riverfront view & patio. Traditional sushi & appetizers make up the bulk of the menu, while creative Japanese fusion entrees are also delicious.
Address: 600 W. Chicago Avenue
Opening hours: Weekday 11am-2:30pm & 5-10:30pm; Weekend 5-11pm
Phone: +1 312.822.9600
Internet: www.japonaischicago.com

Zapatista
Authentic Mexican cuisine served in a sophisticated, lively environment.
Address: 1307 S. Wabash Avenue
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 11:30am-10pm; Fri-Sat
11:30am-11pm; Sun 12-9pm
Phone: +1 312.435.1307
Internet: www.zapatistacantina.com

Spiaggia
One of Chicago’s finest Italian restaurants in a glamorous setting on the Magnificent Mile.
Address: 980 N. Michigan, Level 2
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 6-9:30pm; Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30pm;
Sun 6-9pm
Phone: +1 312.280.2750

Charlie Trotter’s
Named for the famous head chef, creative, contemporary cuisine in what is regarded as one of the world’s finest restaurants.
Address: 816 W. Armitage
Opening hours: Seatings Tues-Thurs 6pm-9pm; Fri-Sat
5:30pm-9pm; Closed Mondays
Phone: +1 773.248.6228
Internet: www.charlietrotters.com

Portillo’s Hotdogs
A Chicago favorite famous for its hot dogs and other delicious casual dining options. Outdoor patio, weather permitting.
Address: 100 W. Ontario
Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-12am
Phone: +1 312.587.8910
Internet: www.portillos.com

Tempo
An all day, all night restaurant, on the trendy Gold Coast with fabulous breakfast and brunch fare. Very crowded on the weekends.
Address: 6 E. Chestnut
Opening hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Phone: +1 312.943.4373

Bistro Zinc
Unique combinations along with traditional French bistro fare in a warm, relaxing environment.
Address: 1131 N. State Street
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 11:30am-10pm; Fri 11:30am-11pm; Sat 10am-3pm, 5:30-11pm; Sun 10am-3pm, 5-9pm
Phone: +1 312.337.1131
Internet: www.bistrozinc.com

Chicago Cafes

Sarah’s Pastries & Candies
Hand made, delightful chocolates & pastries served alongside gourmet coffee treats. Limited indoor & outdoor seating.
Address: 70 E. Oak Street
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm; Sun 10am-6pm
Phone: +1 312.664.6223
Internet: www.sarahscandies.com

Argo Tea Café
Unique and tasty signature tea drinks, as well as traditional coffee choices.
Address: 819 N. Rush Street
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 6am-11pm; Sat 7am-11pm; Sun 7am-10pm
Phone: +1 312.951.5302
Internet: www.argotea.com

Starbucks
A giant, cozy venue with wireless internet access, where locals come to see and be seen. Fabulous people watching in this favorite American chain of coffee cafés.
Address: I. e. 932 N. Rush Street (Multiple locations)
Opening hours: 5am-11pm Monday-Friday; 5am-12pm Saturday & Sunday
Phone: +1 312.951.5436
Internet: www.starbucks.com

Chicago Bars and Nightlife

Chicago has a lively nightlife, particularly famous for its music scene. There are typical DJ clubs, but also Latin & Salsa clubs that are vibrant and popular. Because of its mix of international people, the live music found here is incredibly varied. Famous Jazz and Blues clubs abound, as well as smaller venues which represent local musicians and quiet bars with small bands playing music from around the world.

Keep in mind that the drinking age in Chicago is 21. In January 2008, a smoking ban was passed prohibiting smoking in all public places including all bars and restaurants.

The Signature Lounge
Breathtaking views from this upscale, cozy lounge on the top floor of the John Hancock center.
Address: 875 N. Michigan Avenue, 96th Floor
Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-12:30am; Fri-Sat 11am-1:30am
Phone: +1 312.787.9596
Internet: www.signatureroom.com

Le Colonial Lounge
A chic bar popular with the young, clubby set. Located upstairs from the restaurant of the same name.
Address: 937 N. Rush Street
Opening hours: Mon-Wed 4:45-11pm; Thurs-Sat 4:45pm-12am; Sun 4:45-10pm
Phone: +1 312.255.0088
Internet: www.lecolonialchicago.com

Lux Bar
A sophisticated two storey bar that features elegant marble floors & tables, mahogany walls and a stunning marble staircase that makes you feel like a movie star. Serves dinner as well as inventive cocktails.
Address: 18 E. Bellevue Place
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-2am; Fri & Sun 8am-2am; Sat 8am-3am
Phone: +1 312.642.3400
Internet: www.luxbar.com

The Original Mother’s
Division street is notorious for its bar scene and Mother’s does not disappoint. A large venue with stylish antique sofas and easy chairs in front, with a lively dance floor in the back. The famed setting for the 1986 cult film “About Last Night”.
Address: 26 W. Division Street
Opening hours: Sunday-Friday 5pm-4am; Saturday 5pm-5am
Phone: +1 312.642.7251

The Whiskey Bar
A trendy, sophisticated lounge with cozy leather sofas & dark wood accents.
Address: 1015 N. Rush
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 6am-2am; Sat 7am-3 am; Sun 7am-2am
Phone: +1 312.457.0300

House of Blues
An international chain of clubs, which promotes current rock bands & other various acts including jazz, blues, soul, funk & pop music.
Address: 329 N. Dearborn
Opening hours: Hours vary depending on showtimes
Phone: +1 312.923.2000
Price: Prices vary depending on show
Internet: www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/chicago

Buddy Guy’s Legends
World famous live blues music club named for rock & roll Hall of Fame legend Buddy Guy.
Address: 754 S. Wabash
Opening hours: Showtimes vary, Sun 6pm-2am; Mon-Fri
11am-2am; Sat 5pm-3am
Phone: +1 312.427.0333
Internet: www.buddyguys.com

Jazz Showcase
A famous venue for live Chicago jazz since 1947.
Address: Address: 47 W. Polk Street
Opening hours: Tue, Wed, Thurs 8pm & 10pm sets; Fri& Sat 9pm & 11pm sets; Sun 4pm, 8pm & 10 pm sets; Closed Monday
Phone: +1 312.670.2473 (BIRD)
Internet: www.jazzshowcase.com

The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
A legendary live music venue with different varieties of jazz in a 1940’s style lounge.
Address: 4802 N. Broadway
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 12pm-4am; Sat 12pm-5am; Sun 11am-4am
Phone: +1 773.878.5552
Internet: www.greenmilljazz.com

Green Dolphin Street
A popular, sophisticated jazz & blues club that serves meals along with music.
Address: 2200 N. Ashland Avenue
Opening hours: Dining: Tuesday-Thursday 5:30-9:45pm; Friday & Saturday 5:30-10:45pm; Sunday 5:30-8:45; Closed Monday; Club: Tuesday-Thursday 9pm-2am; Friday & Saturday 8:30pm-3am; Sunday 8pm-12am
Phone: +1 773.395.0066
Internet: www.jazzitup.com

Betty’s Blue Star Lounge
Great dance club for late nights. Mostly R&B, hip-hop & funk DJ music, but caters for a variety on different nights, with some live music events. Check the website calendar.
Address: 1600 W. Grand Avenue
Opening hours: until 4am Sun-Fri; until 5am Saturday
Phone: +1 312.243.8778
Internet: www.bettysbluestarlounge.com

Shopping in Chicago

The Magnificent Mile
A mile of exclusive luxury shops along North Michigan Avenue. Gucci, Escada, Prada, Cartier & all the internationally famous high end shops are represented here.
Internet: www.themagnificentmile.com

Bloomingdale’s Building
An eight story shopping structure with upscale, luxury shops, including the Chicago flagship Bloomingdale’s location. Also houses restaurants and cinemas.
Address: 900 N. Michigan
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10am-7pm; Sun 12pm-6pm
Phone: +1 312.915.3916
Internet: www.shop900.com

Water Tower Place
Sophisticated shopping in a spectacular eight level atrium building. Situated across from the Chicago Water tower, which is one of the only surviving structures of the 1871 great Chicago fire. Restaurants and cinema on site.
Address: 835 N. Michigan Avenue
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm; Sun 11am-6pm
Phone: +1 312.440.3166
Internet: www.shopwatertower.com

Chicago Hotels

Luxury Chicago Hotels

The Drake Hotel
Opulent, European style historic 1920 hotel overlooking Lake Michigan, has a prime location on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile.
Address: 140 E. Walton Avenue

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The Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
Sophisticated, elegant, contemporary and stylish. Excellent restaurant and lively bar inside the hotel.
Address: 20 E. Chestnut Street

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Good Value Chicago Hotels

Best Western Inn of Chicago
Newly renovated and located ½ east of the Magnificent Mile. Walking distance to attractions, dining, nightlife & shopping.
Address: 125 W. Ohio Street

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Cheap Chicago Hotels

Heart O Chicago
The Heart O’ Chicago Motel is located in Chicago, Ill. One mile from the Hollywood Beach on Lake Michigan, less than four miles from Wrigley Field.
Address: 5990 N Ridge Ave, Chicago

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