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Top reasons to visit Chicago

• Iconic Landmarks: Visit the Willis Tower for breathtaking views and explore Millennium Park's vibrant atmosphere.
• Scenic River Walks: Stroll along the picturesque Chicago River and enjoy riverside dining and leisure activities.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Discover engaging attractions along Lake Michigan perfect for families of all ages.
• Cultural Experiences: Explore the city's rich cultural scene through guided neighbourhood tours and local events.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of stylish hotels and charming B&Bs to suit your travel needs.

Chicago offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every family's needs. From luxury hotels with stunning city views to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone. The city is known for its iconic hotels, such as The Drake and The Palmer House, which offer a touch of elegance and history. If you're looking for a cheap hotel, there are also plenty of affordable options available. Whatever your preference, Chicago has the perfect hotel for your family holiday.

• River Hotel - This family-friendly hotel is located near the river, offering stunning views and close proximity to theaters, shopping centers, entertainment venues, iconic monuments, and museums. The friendly staff and concierge services ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for your family.
• Congress Plaza Hotel - Situated with a beautiful view, this hotel is within walking distance of theaters, a university, shopping areas, and the picturesque lake. It also offers a historical charm, perfect for families interested in exploring the city's rich past. The friendly locals and opportunities for walking and windsurfing nearby make it an ideal choice for an adventurous family holiday.
• Eurostars Magnificent Mile - This trendy hotel is located near theaters, offering a great view and easy access to friendly locals, boutique shopping, renowned museums, segway tours, and iconic monuments. Its steamroom facilities provide a relaxing experience for the entire family.

Where to stay in Chicago

Chicago, known as the Windy City, offers a vibrant mix of urban energy and scenic beauty. Families can explore iconic attractions along Lake Michigan, while couples can enjoy romantic strolls through picturesque neighbourhoods. Don’t miss the stunning city views from the Willis Tower or the lively atmosphere of Millennium Park. Nearby suburbs also provide family-friendly experiences, making Chicago a perfect holiday destination for all types of travellers seeking diverse adventures and warm hospitality.

• Downtown Chicago: Situated in the heart of Chicago, Downtown is a bustling hub that showcases the city's vibrant urban life. This area is particularly popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a balanced mix of city-themed attractions. Visitors can explore a variety of shopping areas, catch a show at one of the many theatres, or enjoy arena entertainment. Notable landmarks such as the tourist precinct and local stadiums are within easy reach, making it a prime spot for adventure and relaxation alike.
• Magnificent Mile: Renowned for its stunning retail experiences, the Magnificent Mile is a must-visit neighbourhood for those seeking a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. The area attracts families and city adventurers, especially during peak seasons in March to April and July. Along this iconic stretch, you’ll find an array of shopping venues, educational attractions, and entertainment options. The proximity to major landmarks, including stadiums and vibrant tourist precincts, ensures there's always something exciting to do.
• The Loop: The Loop serves as Chicago's central business district and offers a dynamic mix of culture and entertainment. This neighbourhood is particularly appealing to families and those looking for outdoor city experiences. With easy access to shopping areas, theatres, and arena entertainment, The Loop is a vibrant area to explore. Local attractions like urban parks and stadiums provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely day out, making it an ideal spot for both tourists and locals alike.

Things to do in Chicago

Chicago offers a fantastic mix of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Explore vibrant neighbourhoods on guided tours, stroll along scenic riverside walking trails, and enjoy some ice skating at local rinks. With bustling shopping areas and entertainment arenas, this city is perfect for a city-themed vacation filled with fun and education.

Shopping

In Chicago, visit Woodfield Mall for a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of entertainment and family vibes. For something close, check out the Chicago Place Mall, buzzing with city energy. If you're up for a drive, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is also a fun stop for gifts.

Recreation

Wrigley Field offers an energetic atmosphere where you can catch a baseball game and soak in the lively sports culture. For a musical escape, the Aragon Ballroom provides a vibrant setting for concerts. Meanwhile, Northerly Island Natural Area invites you to unwind in nature with scenic views and peaceful trails.

Adventure

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park offers thrilling water slides and wave pools, perfect for family fun and adventure. For a scenic outdoor experience, hike along the Salt Creek Trail, where stunning landscapes and fresh air await. Rainbow Falls Waterpark promises more aquatic excitement with rides and attractions for everyone.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Chicago Theatre, where entertainment and culture blend beautifully. For family fun, the People’s Choice Family Fun Center offers thrilling arcade adventures. Don’t miss the Rosemont Theatre for a romantic evening filled with captivating performances.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Chicago

Chicago is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travellers, with numerous free attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Grant Park. For public transport, you can use trains and buses to save on transport costs. Consider visiting between December and February for the best hotel rates, particularly on Wednesdays. Use Expedia to compare accommodation options and find package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for special discounts and offers to make the most of your Chicago adventure without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in 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 in Chicago is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Chicago is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Chicago hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

When it comes to dining in Chicago, you'll be spoilt for choice. For a romantic evening, head to one of the top romantic restaurants in the city, like Alinea or Spiaggia, where you can indulge in exquisite dishes while enjoying breathtaking views. If you're in Lincoln Park, don't miss the opportunity to dine at a fine-dining restaurant like Perennial Virant, known for its innovative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. For a convenient option, the restaurant at Hotel Chicago Downtown offers a variety of delicious dishes to satisfy your cravings. And of course, no visit to Chicago would be complete without trying a slice of Chi-town's famous deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. In downtown Chicago, you'll find a plethora of restaurants catering to every cuisine imaginable, from Antico Posto's Mediterranean Italian fare to P.F. Chang's China Bistro's Asian Chinese dishes.

Best time to go to Chicago

The best time to visit Chicago is dependant 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.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Chicago

Visiting Chicago is convenient through its major airports. O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is situated 25.7km from the city centre, with nearby hotels such as the 4.5-star Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel and Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago, both 3.2km away, offering easy access. Midway International Airport (MDW) is 14.5km from downtown, with luxurious options like the 5-star Trump International Hotel & Tower and The Langham, Chicago. For those considering South Bend International Airport (SBN), located 614.5km away, notable hotels include the 4-star Doubletree Hotel South Bend, providing airport shuttles on request. Each airport offers a range of transport services, ensuring a smooth arrival.