I just returned from my first trip to Chicago and loved it.
I went with two friends... we are not Foodies, and were trying to keep our costs down . (Ok, so I blew it when it came to shopping).
We flew into Midway and took the EL into the city, and then caught the Orange line subway , then a short walk to our hotel. It was all very easy, and an economical way of doing it.
We stayed at the Marriott Courtyard on Ontario Street just off Michigan on the Magnificent Mile. Our room was fine and the service was great.
Since there were 3 of us, and the room had 2 queen size beds, we asked for a cot, and it arrived within minutes. We then asked for a fridge, and it arrived minutes later.
I would recommend this hotel. The price was great, and the location could not have been better.
We set out for a walk up the Magnifecent Mile and went up the the Hancock Building.
Here is a tip for saving money.. You can pay to go to the observation deck on the 94th floor. We did not do this. Instead, we went to the 96th floor where there is a restaurant. There are great views from the lobby area of the restaurant with out actually eating there. But the best kept secret is the view from the Ladies restroom. There is a floor to ceiling window and the view is spectacular.
We ate dinner at Grand Lux Cafe and enjoyed it very much. It is owned by the same company as Cheesecake Factory and the portions are huge. It's located at Ontario St and Michigan , above the Ann Taylor store.
We found Dominic's grocery store and stocked up. We ate breakfast in our room... bagels, yogurt, and fruit.
Touristy things we did that we really enjoyed:
The double decker bus tour.. worthwhile.
The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise... very very good.
A walk through Millenium Park .. beautiful
Art Institute ... really worthwhile.
Navy Pier. I really enjoyed the Stained Glass Window Museum there.
Walking and walking and walking all over the downtown area.
And, of course, shopping. GREAT shopping.
Places we ate that were reasonably priced.
Portello's Hot dogs on Ontario St. we had the famous Chicago hot dog.
The food court on the Mezzanine at Water Tower Place.
California Pizza on Erie.
We splurged and took a taxi back to Midway . It was $36 with tip....but well worth it.
It was the end to a really great 4 day vacation. I wish we'd had more time, but I think we did very well in 4 days.
Everyone should see Chicago!!
My budget trip to Chicago (except for the shopping).
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Thanks for your report. We also took public transportation into the city and enjoyed Grand Lux cafe. Great tip about the Hancock Tower
. Now they'll wonder why so many women have the urge to go when they reach that floor - lol. So glad you enjoyed your time there - we can't wait to go back again!
I agree!Everyone should see Chicago
I love it there. It was so funny reading your post, as we stayed at that hotel, went to the same places, found the same grocery store! So glad you had a good time.
"Navy Pier. I really enjoyed the Stained Glass Window Museum there." - so did I. Nice to know it's still there, and still good.
I think you've covered a lot in 4 days! So... what did you buy
Hello Kodi, so you sneaked acrossed the border again I see!
Your time in Chicago with your friends sounds deightful.
Yes, what did you buy, a lot of great things I am sure!
Uhm, across not acrossed..gads I wish we had an edit feature, lol!
Thanks, Kodi. We're going next week and hope to follow some of your budget tips.
Nice report, Kodi. So glad you enjoyed your time in Chicago!
BTW, besides having great Chicago style dogs, Portillo's Italian beef is among the best.
kodi, I'm glad that you had a good visit.
However, the ladies restroom at the Signature Room/Signature Lounge is for their patrons only. It is not a public restroom.
So, people, *please* do the right thing. If you go to the Signature Room or Signature Lounge, please remember it is a business which depends on paying customers.
Also, the restaurant in the Signature has a reasonable buffet Mon thru Sat for $18.00 pp which is very good and you can sit at a window seat and enjoy those wonderful views of Chicago.
Thanks for your report Kodi, so glad you had a great time!
Is the Signature Lounge dressy? How packed would it be on a Saturday evening just for drinks?
We have only gone to the Lounge once and it was late afternoon, the dress at that time was casual. The drinks are expensive, $13.00 to 15.00. That's why we decided from that point on to have the buffet for $18.00 instead.
Thanks, cd. Makes sense!
Exiled, you are quite right. Perhaps I should not have mentioned it.
Had I known there was an $18 buffet, that would have been a good idea. Not much more than paying for the observation deck on the 94th floor and so much more enjoyable.
Dayenu, I bought lots of clothes. I only packed half my suitcase when I went, because I had planned on shopping and I wasn't disappointed.
Thank you, kodi.
BTW, I am so glad that you took the Chicago Architecture Foundation's River Cruise. IMHO, one of the best things to do in Chicago, especially for first-timers.
Hoping that you are planning a return visit sometime in the future to explore more of our city!
sounds like good tips. I am going to Chicago for five days in September. Some of those tips are worth looking into (although I will probably not be able to take advantage of the Lady's bathroom tip, I am a guy LOL). I will be going to the Signature Room for the $18 food buffet. I am also going on the Wendella combined Lake and River Cruise (90 minutes) so I am looking forward to the entire trip
Exiled, I look forward to seeing more of your great city. The River Cruise was definitely a highlight.
I especially loved all the park land and wonderful gardens along the waterfront.
The flowers and gardens all through the downtown area were beautiful.
Majestik, have a great time.
Majestik
Have fun! Make reservations and ask for a window seat.
http://www.signatureroom.com/Cuisine/Lunch/
Great report...you inspired me!
thank you, I am looking forward to the trip. Please see my post at http://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/first-time-visitor-to-chicago-any-advice-is-appreciated.cfm
Feel free to add any comments or advice. Thanks
topping for my dear friend BayouGal.
Tried the ladies room at the Hancock, they booted me out
. The observation deck is good too, bit expensive but the av tour guide is good.