We're thinking of attending a concert at this facility in December, but I understand it is very close to O'Hare. Will the holiday sounds be drowned out by jet engines? Have you attended a concert at this arena? And is there public transportation to Navy Pier, etc. from that location?

the arena is so close that planes are not more than 200 feet overhead in the parking lot. you almost feel like you are on the runway. BUT, they obviously did a good job soundproofing because i have been to several concerts and haven't heard a thing outside. you will be fine.

Thanks tino...any idea about public transportation into the city?

You will be situated on the blue line subway/el train. There is a stop at the airport as well as the Rosemont area stop, just before airport and near Allstate Arena and hotels in that area. If you are staying in that area you would take blue line all the way in to the city 45 min from Rosemont and 50-55 from O'hare. Get off at the Clark and Lake stop and you will be by the river walking distance to NAvy Pier and walking or very short cab ride to mag mile entertainment and shopping. However, I highly recommend you stay downtown in the mag mile areaand then take the blue line out to the concert area instead of vice versa. While there are many hotels by the airport and Allstate Arena a/k/a Rosemont Horizon Center this is a business/convention area and you will not feel the atmosphere of the city nor will you have restaurant and entertainment options within walking distance of your hotel as Rosemont is actually a suburb and has a VERY suburban feel. Forgot to mention cta subway is $1.50/person each way and you can not use dollar bills. You either must purchase CTA cards debit type (with your paper money) or use quarters at the turnstyle.

I've never noticed the airplane noise there either, EXCEPT at last year's Boston Pops holiday concert. The director -- the young guy -- what's his name? was speaking to the audience and had to defer to the noise of a passing plane (which he handled with humor).

Beth and Susan,
Thanks so much for the useful info and tips. Beth, can you name a few hotels you would recommend? Not 5 star, but no roach motel, either. My kids are 13 and 15, so walking to sites is no problem. Thanks again.

I would stay at either Embassy Suites locations; I have stayed a few times at the state ST. location, the other location, lakeshore, just opened. With two kids you'll enjoy the extra space of a two-room suite. They also throw in breakfest and a social hour with the room. The downtown location is closer to the River North area and state street the lakeshore location is near navy pier.