Navigating the most populated city of Illinois and the third-most populated city of the US is not that difficult, thanks to its robust transit system. But figuring out where to stay can be really tough for first-time visitors. It can depend on the purpose for which you are planning to visit the city, be it a romantic holiday, a shopping trip or a family vacation.
Below are listed some fantastic areas where you can stay when planning your visit to the city-
1. Chicago Loop- Best Place for foodies
It is the most popular area when it comes to deciding where to stay in Chicago. It the visitor’s first go-to place. The neighborhood is home to the tallest structures of the city, which are a part of Chicago’s vast skyline. It is located to the west of the Chicago River and has Lake Michigan to its east. It is called “the loop” due to the fact that Chicago’s public transportation system makes a loop around this downtown area of Chicago.
There can be no better place to stay for you in Chicago if you are a big-time foodie. It hosts some of the fantastic restaurants and bars including Chicago’s best, The Aviary and The Girl and the Goat.
Where to Stay?
• Chicago’s Ace Hotel
• The Hoxton
• Virgin Hotel
• Hyatt Regency
• Wyndham Grand
Things to do
• Visit Art Institute of Chicago
• Tease your taste buds at The Big Bar, Eleven City Diner, Wildberry Pancakes, and Café
• Take a picture at Millennium Park; Cloud Gate, the iconic Bean sculpture
2. River North- the Best place to enjoy Nightlife
Known as the gallery district, it is the entertainment hub of Chicago. This place, located in the east of Chicago River, has the highest concentration of hotels and is home to numerous art galleries and museums. The place has a bit of everything. You can go on a shopping spree or dine-in lavish restaurants or enjoy its nightlife by listening to great live music. The best way to explore River North River is by taking a Chicago Architecture River Cruise.
Where to Stay?
• Fieldhouse Jones
• Kimpton Hotel Palomar
• Hotel Godfrey
• Hilton Garden Inn
• Hotel Felix
Things to do
• Party at Sound-Bar, Disco Chicago, PRYSM Nightclub, and The Bassment
• Witness the royalty of Chicago at Studio Paris
• Enjoy delicious American dishes at Baptiste & Bottle and Italian food at Bar Lupo
3. Lincoln Park- Best Place for families
This neighborhood, earlier known by the name of Lake Park, is the place where you will find a mix of young college students, newbie lawyers, and young families. You can have a taste of the local life of the city if you decide to stay here. It is home to the finest attractions of the city, including the Lincoln Park Zoo, St Michael’s Church, DePaul University, and Chicago History Museum.
Where to Stay?
• Hotel Versey Days
• Villa D’ Citta
• Hotel Inn
• Hotel Lincoln
Things to do
• Relax on North Avenue Beach
• Eat at Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder, Nookies, Molly’s Cupcakes
• Wander through the Lincoln Park, its zoo and its conservatory
4. Wicker Park- The Coolest neighborhood
It surely is the most vibrant area of the city of Chicago. It has a quaint mix of innovative restaurants, boutiques, concert venues, cocktail bars. You will find the most famous live music venues in the city at Wicker Park. A must-go-to place for a music lover!
It is located along the Magnificent Mile, and shoppers can find everything from eclectic wares to cutting-edge boutiques to vintage stores and high street fashion.
Where to Stay?
• Ruby Room Spa and Wellness
• Urban Holiday Spots
• Holiday Jones
Things to do
• Enjoy delicious tacos at Big Star
• Enjoy a fantastic view of the city from Bloomingdale Trail
• Make your taste buds tickle at Mindy’s HotChocolate, Presidio, and Dove’s Luncheonette
• Pay a visit to the Flat Iron Arts Building and Quimby’s Bookstore
• Enjoy nightlife by listening to great live music and enjoying cocktails at Subterranean and Whiskey Business & Fry Bar
