A haven for architecture buffs, foodies, sports fans and culture lovers, Chicago offers something ideal for every type of traveler. Rise sky-high to the top of Willis Tower, catch a game at Wrigley Field or dig into a deep-dish, Chicago-style pizza. The Wind City’s wonders await.
featured stories
Hipster Hopping: The 3 Coolest Neighborhoods in Chicago
Sure, Chicago’s downtown is great, but to truly experience the…
Ditch the Car: How to Do the Windy City by Foot, Bike and Train
Bags packed, flight booked, hotel room reserved — now all…
Murals, Fountains and Sculptures: See the Best of Chicago’s Public Art
Beautiful art exists everywhere in Chicago, even beyond its myriad…
where to stay
- Hotel Chicago Downtown, Autograph Collection
- Residence Inn Chicago Magnificent Mile
- Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel
- Sheraton Grand Chicago
- Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
- Sheraton Grand Chicago
- The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel
- The Westin Chicago River North
- W Chicago – City Center
- The Robey, Chicago, a Member of Design Hotels
All Stories
did you know?
On a clear day, from sky deck of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) visitors can catch a glimpse of four states: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
QUICK GUIDE
WHEN TO GO
June – Aug.: Peak season; weather is warm and festivals and events abound.
Nov. – March: Winter brings frigid temperatures, as well as cheaper prices and fewer crowds.
April – May, Sept. – Oct.: Spring weather can be hit or miss, while fall tends to be lovely.
NEED TO KNOW
Visas: Travelers from outside the United States will need a valid passport, as well as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) eligibility or a full visa.
Money: Currency is U.S. dollars and ATMs are widely available.
Travel Health: Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should check for vaccination, proof of negative COVID-19 test and face mask requirements, as well as any travel restrictions before planning their trip. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away. Chicago’s parks, trails, beaches and outdoor restaurants and attractions make social distancing easy. The city offers travelers detailed information on the latest health safety updates, including what’s currently open and upcoming events info.
GETTING AROUND
Getting Here: Chicago is served by O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Taxis, ride shares or city trains can take you from the airport to downtown.
Getting Around: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates a system of trains throughout the city. These underground subway lines and aboveground elevated trains are referred to as the El.
LOCAL INTEL
Local Lingo: Heads up: you’ll want to drink a Chicago Handshake, actually a pint (or can) of Old Style and a shot of Malört. Wet is used when ordering an Italian beef sandwich, and means you want lots of gravy (au jus). If you’re ordering a Chicago-style hot dog, With everything indicates you want all of the usual toppings.
Must-Have Apps: Chicago Citymapper; My Chi Parks
Other Tips: Public art abounds in Chicago. Visit Cloud Gate, better-known as “The Bean” — the centerpiece of Millennium Park — and snap a photo of your reflection or the skyline reflected within this mirrored sculpture.