Chicago

Planning Your Chicago Trip

Essential Information

Country and State

United States, Illinois

Timezone

GMT -6 (Central Standard Time)

Languages Spoken

English (primary), Spanish (significant minority)

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Weather and Climate

• January-February: Cold and snowy, with average highs in the 30s (°F).
• March-April: Cool, a transitional period with occasional rain and snow, highs ranging from 40s to 60s (°F).
• May-June: Mild to warm, pleasant weather with increasing humidity, highs in the 60s-70s (°F).
• July-August: Hot and humid, thunderstorms are common, highs in the 80s (°F).
• September-October: Mild and sunny, comfortable temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, highs in the 60s-70s (°F).
• November-December: Cooling temperatures, increasing chance of snow, highs in the 30s-40s (°F).

Chicago: A City Overview

Chicago, a vibrant metropolis on Lake Michigan, offers a compelling mix of stunning architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and a rich culture. From towering skyscrapers to green spaces like Millennium Park and Lincoln Park, Chicago is captivating. Its history as a transportation and industrial center is evident in its architecture, museums, and arts scene. Chicago’s neighborhoods offer cultural experiences, from the Polish influence in Wicker Park to the Mexican community in Pilsen. The culinary scene is diverse, featuring everything from deep-dish pizza to fine dining. Whether you’re enjoying art at the Art Institute, catching a blues show, or walking along the lakefront, Chicago offers an unforgettable experience.

Best Time to Visit Chicago

• Spring (April-May):
  • Pros: Fewer crowds, blossoming parks, pleasant temperatures.
  • Cons: Occasional rain, unpredictable weather.
• Summer (June-August):
  • Pros: Warm weather, outdoor festivals, beach access.
  • Cons: Crowds, high humidity, higher prices.
• Fall (September-October):
  • Pros: Mild temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, fewer crowds than summer.
  • Cons: Shorter daylight hours.
• Winter (November-March):
  • Pros: Lower prices, festive holiday atmosphere.
  • Cons: Very cold weather, snow, limited outdoor activities.

Getting To Chicago & Visa Information

• Flights: Chicago has two major airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW).
• Trains: Amtrak provides train service to Chicago’s Union Station.
• Visa Details: Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check the US Department of State website for details.
• Airport Transfers: Options include taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft), public transportation (CTA trains and buses), and airport shuttle services.

Discovering Chicago

Fun Fact About Chicago

Did you know that the Chicago River was once reversed? To prevent sewage from contaminating Lake Michigan (the city’s drinking water), engineers reversed the river’s flow in the late 19th century, diverting it into the Mississippi River basin. This is a testament to Chicago’s ingenuity!

Famous Chicagoans

Oprah Winfrey, Barack Obama, Walt Disney, Hillary Clinton, Harrison Ford, Bernie Mac.

Top 10 Chicago Attractions

• Millennium Park

  A public park featuring Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden.

  • Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
• Art Institute of Chicago

  A leading art museum with an extensive collection.

  • Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
• Navy Pier

  An entertainment pier with rides, restaurants, shops, and skyline views.

  • Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
• Magnificent Mile

  A stretch of North Michigan Avenue lined with upscale shops, restaurants, and hotels.

  • Address: North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL
• Skydeck Chicago – Willis Tower

  Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, offering panoramic city views.

  • Address: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
• Field Museum

  A natural history museum with a vast collection, including the Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, Sue.

  • Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
• Shedd Aquarium

  One of the largest indoor aquariums in the world.

  • Address: 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
• Museum of Science and Industry

  An interactive science museum.

  • Address: 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637
• Lincoln Park Zoo

  A free zoo located in Lincoln Park.

  • Address: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
• 360 Chicago Observation Deck

  Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center, offering city views and the “Tilt” experience.

  • Address: 875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Chicago’s Hidden Gems

• International Museum of Surgical Science

  A museum dedicated to the history of surgery.

  • Address: 1524 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60610
• Garfield Park Conservatory

  One of the largest botanical conservatories in the United States.

  • Address: 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624
• The Empty Bottle

  An intimate music venue.

  • Address: 1035 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
• Smart Museum of Art

  Located at the University of Chicago, showcasing a diverse art collection.

  • Address: 5550 S Greenwood Ave, Chicago, IL 60637
• Milton Lee Olive Park

  A park with beautiful views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.

  • Address: 500 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611

Local Festivals and Events

• Taste of Chicago (July): A massive food festival in Grant Park.
• Lollapalooza (August): A four-day music festival in Grant Park.
• Chicago Air and Water Show (August): A free air and water show along the lakefront.
• Chicago Blues Festival (June): A free blues music festival in Millennium Park.
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March): A parade celebrating Irish culture.

Day Trips from Chicago

• Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Approx. 1.5-hour drive): Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum or sample local brews.
• Starved Rock State Park (Approx. 1.5-hour drive): Hike through canyons and waterfalls.
• Indiana Dunes National Park (Approx. 1-hour drive): Explore the dunes along Lake Michigan.
• Galena, Illinois (Approx. 3-hour drive): A charming historic town with antique shops and wineries.

Insta-Worthy Chicago Photography Spots

• Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) in Millennium Park
• Chicago Riverwalk
• Skydeck Chicago – Willis Tower
• 360 Chicago Observation Deck
• Chicago Cultural Center
• Wrigley Building
• Lincoln Park Zoo
• Garfield Park Conservatory
• Museum Campus (Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium)

Planning Your Stay in Chicago

Recommended Stay

4-5 days

Top Chicago Hotels (Sorted by Budget)

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Freehand Chicago
  • Address: 19 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611
• Hostelling International Chicago
  • Address: 24 E Congress Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60605
• The Robey
  • Address: 2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
• Hotel Lincoln
  • Address: 1816 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

Mid-Range Hotels

• Thompson Chicago
  • Address: 21 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
• Hotel EMC2, Autograph Collection
  • Address: 228 E Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611
• The Hoxton, Chicago
  • Address: 200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
• Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
  • Address: 515 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

Luxury Hotels

• The Langham, Chicago
  • Address: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
• Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
  • Address: 120 E Delaware Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
• The Peninsula Chicago
  • Address: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
• Waldorf Astoria Chicago
  • Address: 11 E Walton St, Chicago, IL 60611
• The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago
  • Address: 160 E Pearson St, Chicago, IL 60611

Getting Around Chicago

• Public Transport: Chicago has an extensive public transportation system, including CTA trains (“L” trains) and buses.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in most parts of the city.
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are popular ride-sharing services.
• Bikes: Divvy is Chicago’s bike-sharing program.
• Walking: Many neighborhoods are walkable, especially in the downtown area.

Essential Chicago Travel Information

What to Pack for Chicago

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Layers of clothing
• Umbrella or raincoat (especially during spring and fall)
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Warm clothing (if visiting in winter: heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarf)

Useful Apps for Chicago Visitors

• CTA Train Tracker: Real-time train arrival information.
• Citymapper: Comprehensive transit navigation app.
• Yelp: Find restaurants, bars, and attractions.
• SpotHero or ParkWhiz: Find and reserve parking.

Chicago Safety Tips and Etiquette

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
• Don’t display expensive jewelry or electronics.
• Be respectful of local culture and customs.
• Tip service staff appropriately (15-20%).

Chicago Food, Fun & Finds

Top Chicago Restaurants

• Alinea

  Molecular gastronomy, tasting menus.

  • Address: 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
• Girl & the Goat

  Inventive small plates.

  • Address: 809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
• Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

  Deep-dish pizza.

  • Address: Various locations
• Au Cheval

  Burgers, comfort food.

  • Address: 800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
• Monteverde

  Italian pasta dishes.

  • Address: 1020 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607

Must-Try Chicago Dishes

• Deep-dish pizza
• Chicago-style hot dog
• Italian beef sandwich
• Jibarito

Chicago Nightlife & Entertainment

• Kingston Mines

  Live blues music.

  • Address: 2548 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
• The Second City

  Improvisational comedy.

  • Address: 1616 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614
• Green Mill Cocktail Lounge

  Historic jazz club.

  • Address: 4802 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60640
• RPM Italian

  Upscale Italian restaurant with a vibrant bar scene.

  • Address: 52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654

Chicago Souvenirs & Shopping

• Garrett Popcorn Shops

  Chicago Mix popcorn (caramel and cheese).

  • Address: Various locations
• Water Tower Place

  Shopping Mall.

  • Address: 835 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
• State Street

  Shopping street with department stores.

  • Address: State Street, Chicago, IL
• Unique Chicago Apparel

  Chicago-themed Clothing.

  • Address: Various locations