Chicago, Illinois, is one of the best cities in the world – full stop. Locals pride themselves on showing off the town and singing its praises to visitors from all over. For a relaxing vacation with plenty of activity options, the “toddlin’ town” is the place to be! Here are some highlights for those who want good food, a nice place to stay, and some interesting things to do while in Chicago.
Restaurants
Chicago is one of the tops “food cities” in the US, partly due to its diverse cultural background and proximity to Canada and the eastern and western US. Anyone searching for a good meal will never have to look far in Chicago; every price range is in play. There is something for every budget and every appetite. Here are three that make the grade:
Wildberry Pancakes and Café
A traditional American cafe with some of the best homemade pancakes in the world. You can enjoy lunch and dinner here too, but try to make it for breakfast and try one of their specialty pancake dishes.
The Chicago Diner
A local favorite serves traditional American meals all day long at a reasonable price. Their steaks and seafood are famous among travelers and Chicago residents. There are tables and diner-style seating as well in this casual eatery.
Emerald Loop
Many business people stop here after a long day of trading on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Still, tourists and other working people are drawn to the excitement of the Irish pub atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a full meal or want to stop at the Irish pub inside Emerald Loop, you’ll enjoy your time at this atmospheric restaurant-pub combo.
Luxury Hotels Near the O’Hare Airport
Due to its central location in the northern U.S., Chicago has long been a crossroads for travelers. That means the city has a long tradition of fine hotels. Like everything else in Chicago, you can find your favorite place to stay without spending a fortune. Here are some of the popular choices for vacationers in Chicago year-round:
Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago
Just a mile from the airport, this hotel’s rooms feature “blackout” curtains and white noise machines for maximum comfort and balconies that overlook the quaint city of Rosemont. Every amenity imaginable is part of the deal at Hyatt, “relaxation central” for Chicago visitors.
Hampton Inn Chicago-O’Hare International Airport
It features an indoor pool where you can soak away the stresses of the busy day. There’s also free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and an airport shuttle. It’s family- and business-friendly too.
Hilton Chicago O’Hare
The Hilton offers full amenities, a gym, a world-class bar, and several restaurants conveniently to the airport, all in a relaxed atmosphere.
Things to Do and See
The “fun list” of things to do and see in Chicago is virtually endless. Some top choices include a visit to the world-renowned Museum of Science and Industry, shopping or walking excursion along the Magnificent Mile, or a relaxing afternoon (which can consist of a boat ride on Lake Michigan) in historic Lincoln Park, one of the nation’s top outdoor green spaces.