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-   -   Chicago-Dec 4-8 (https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/chicago-dec-4-8-a-813447/)

Minogami Nov 7th, 2009 05:21 AM

Chicago-Dec 4-8
 
Planning a 4 days stay in december, first visit , would like to find an hotel with 15-20 minuts walk from the Navy Pier, any suggestions?

jent103 Nov 7th, 2009 08:48 AM

You need to do some searching to see what interests YOU - the trip I plan may not be the trip you plan.

If you're not used to cold weather, plan lots of indoor activities.

What is your hotel budget, and how many people? It's hard to make suggestions without knowing that.

Typical suggestions:
Art Institute
Field Museum
Shedd Aquarium
Second City
Tours with Chicago Architecture Foundation
Grant/Millennium Park

ChgoGal Nov 9th, 2009 07:29 AM

Hi Minogami,

Navy Pier is easy to get to - by bus or taxi - from any hotel "downtown," or in the Loop or the Gold Coast. You can walk there easily, too, if you don't mind the cold too much. So, I'd search for the hotel with the best price.

Maybe try www.quikbook.com for prices - then check www.tripadvisor.com for reviews on the hotel.

By the way, Navy Pier is OK to visit -- but it's not very interesting. You can see the city skyline very well - but the restaurants and shopping are awful.

I'd focus on seeing The Art Institute, shopping around on State Street, going to Armitage Ave (Lincoln Park) for shopping, lunch.

Hope you have a good time!

bachslunch Nov 9th, 2009 12:55 PM

Agreed that the shopping and food at Navy Pier are not much above what's at your average suburban mall, though I strongly feel that the Stained Glass Museum alone very much justifies a visit there.

maggie21083 Nov 11th, 2009 11:09 AM

I loved my stay at the Hard Rock Hotel. It was an easy walk to the Pier.

Not sure what kind of trip you are planning, but I came across a family friendly Chicago article today online.

http://blog.cheapoair.com/post/five-...tractions.aspx

Enjoy rhe Windy City!

paulzy Nov 12th, 2009 04:01 PM

Hey Minogami,

I recommend the Sheraton Hotel just 5 minutes walk from the pier.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotels...ier_Hotels.htm

It should be listed on that page, along with a bunch of other hotels nearby in case that isn't what your'e after.

Paul

madameX Nov 12th, 2009 04:42 PM

There are many good hotels in this area (Sheraton, Wyndham, some smaller chains and independents.) Suggest you try the various budget websites for rates.

Definitely see the Art Institute if you are interested in major museums, and the Aquarium. The Macy's on State Street used to be the old Marshall Fields, and still have SOME of the cache, but has lost some pizzazz. Shopping on North Michigan Avenue, Oak Street, Rush Street, etc. is better. There are also some great funky neighborhoods for shops and cafes, but require a cab ride.

If you are into theater, there are many good options. Some are in walking distance of State Street and the Art Institute. Some like Steppenwolf have new plays and great reknown, but require a cab ride -- not that far, but you don't want to walk.


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