With a rich and colourful history, and neighbourhoods full of character, Chicago is the Midwest's most popular tourist destination. As one of America's biggest and busiest cities, overflowing with art, culture, and high-class entertainment -- as well as stunning historical and contemporary architecture -- Chicago truly offers something for everyone and is a city not to miss.
Accommodation, as you would expect in such a tourist-friendly city, covers every budget, taste, and desire: from outrageous luxury hotels to the wonders of sleeping under the stars.
Top Chicago Attractions
Even though Chicago is nowhere near the ocean, the city is still home to a popular beach. Locals and tourists alike all head to Oak Street Beach - which is located right on the Outer Harbour. Oak Street Beach is a fun hangout for sunbathers, skaters, volleyball players, and bike riders.
For some fun inside, head to McCormick Place - a massive convention center that plays host to more than 3 million people every year. With its variety of conferences, expos, and festivals, McCormick Place is the perfect destination, whether you're in town for work or play.
At Navy Pier, you can get a taste of both history and fun. Originally built in 1916 for freighters on the Great Lakes, Navy Pier is now a major cultural center that offers mini golf, IMAX movies, and performance stages. Amongst the fun, you can also learn all about Navy Pier's original meaning.
The world-renowned Field Museum hosts permanent exhibits exploring the natural world and science, and with huge themed events throughout the calendar year, this is an extraordinary trip for all the family.
An evening at the theatre is a must in this city. Experience the grandeur and atmosphere of one of the many Broadway shows on offer.
Boat tours are a stunning way to see the city from a different perspective. Marvel at the architecture from a luxury liner for a complete one-off experience.
Chicago Hotels
Because it is such a large city, there are Chicago hotels all over the place.Chicago hotels provide services for over 45 million visitors a year, all with varying budgets, expectations, needs and desires. Hotels with 24-hour concierge service and exclusive gourmet restaurants are available alongside those that cost less and hold fewer luxuries. Cheap hotels in Chicago are plentiful, with hugely competitive bed and breakfast rates. There are also numerous hostel facilities for students and travellers that are extremely popular, providing basic sleeping and shared bathing facilities. If you really want to get a room with a view, head to legendary Lakeshore Drive, or look for a hotel near Wrigley Field.
Eating Out
If you are looking for a true taste of the city, take one of the Chicago Food Planet Tours. Chicago chefs have put their local stamp on just about every type of food that the world has to offer! In just a few short hours, you can get a complete taste of the local cuisine and sample everything from deep-dish pizza to the city's beloved Chinese food.
With so many restaurants and bars, the city boasts that you could eat a different dish every day for twenty years; such is the cultural and culinary diversity within the city and its neighbourhoods. Hosting more AAA five diamond restaurants than any other city in America, Chicago knows its food. Fine dining is just one aspect; there are the world famous pizzas on every street, and in the suburbs a selection of dishes from every country in the world.