I think my brother has sorted tickets for Wrigley field.
So I don't have to worry about them.
I am so glad they are sorted beforehand

Well, now that I know where you're coming from- I'm going to even more strongly suggest that you stay with public transportation. We drive on the "wrong" side of the road, ya know!- better to stick to PT. :)

Have a safe and wonderful trip, ebonrub. You will LOVE Chicago! :)

I stayed at the Essex a couple of years ago (so things may have changed, but still). It's fine - not a luxury hotel, but it suited our purposes just fine. The pool is fun, just for novelty of being on the "roof" if nothing else (it's really on the fourth floor, I believe, but nothing above it in that part of the building). A couple of bus lines will take you right up Michigan Avenue. Enjoy your trip!

As the above post says, the Essex is ok, but not great. It's sort of removed from most sights and the shopping district. If your reservation there is refundable, you may find a great deal someplace else as many hotels are desperate for business right now. If a pool is high on your priority list, some of the top pools in the city are at the Embassy Suites on Columbus Drive, Intercontinental, Swissotel or Fairmont.

I'm seeing rates between $209 and $256 at the Essex beginning Aug 26. The Swissotel is offering a special rate that ranges between $144 and $192 and the Fairmont is offering $207 per night.

The Intercontinental is offering a pre-paid rate of $177 or $217 with breakfast and the Hyatt Regency on Wacker has a pre-paid rate of $199.

The Embassy Suites on Columbus is offering $159 per night and the Homewood Suites is $149. The Homewoood would give you a full kitchen in your room and includes breakfast and has a pool.

Oh how wonderful you people are wish I could meet you all.
If any of you fancy a trip to Liverpool I will definately give you all the tips you need. In fact I wouldn't give you tips I would put you up for a few days LOL.
I hope everyone in Chicago is as nice as you guys
Thanks again

Just to say thanks again for all the comments and ideas I was given on this site. I had a fantastic holiday in Chicago what agreat city and the people are lovely. I was asked what I would do for two weeks in a city by a travel agent Hey what do the travel agents know. I done all the site seeing that was to be done. My favourites where the boat trip, Lincoln Park Zoo,and Navy Pier. We went to see the Jersey Boys (fab) Tommy Guns garage (very good) and got tickets for the cubs game, never been to a ball game before but thoroughly enjoyed it. I must just add if you are staying in Chicago for longer than three days try and book a Chicago Greeter. These people do a wonderful service,it's free and they give you some valuable information Oh anyone thinking of going to the observatory tower in the John Hancock building why not try the signature room (96th floor) buffet $18. I think its 11am to 2pm midweek. The views are marvellous All in all a fantastic two weeks in a wondeful city

ebonrub, I'm so happy that you enjoyed your trip to Chicago. It doesn't get all the hype of LA or NY, but it is absolutely a terrific place to visit.

Hope you'll tell all your friends! :)