We've never been to Chicago other than to change planes. We're thinking of flying there for about 4 days in mid-July.

What we're interested in doing is just wandering around seeing the sights. I'm sure my wife will also wander into stores as well.

Correct me if I'm wrong but I took a quick look at a map and I see two areas that may be of interest for hotel locations.

a) Magnificent Mile - Near North Michigan above the river.
b) Near South Michigan between the river and the bottom of Millennium Park.

We'd like to have restaurants close enough to be walkable. We'd also like to be able to wander around in the evening as well.

Would either area be more preferable than the other?

Thanks.

River north is preferable, however from the far north end of the Magnificent Mile to Roosevelt Road is only about 2.5 miles.

The Mag Mile is specifically Michigan Avenue from the river north to Oak Street. The area to the east is Streeterville and to the west is River North. The three areas have the largest number of hotels and restaurants and adjacent to shopping and attractions. The South Michigan Avenue area is much quieter.

Check the Chicago Transit Authority site at www.transitchicago.com to find a trip planner, schedules, fare info and how to track buses and trains with a smart phone.

For attractions and other info check www.choosechicago.com.

If you can afford it, eat on the "Magnificent Mile".
http://www.themagnificentmile.com/dining/
For a spectacular view day or night, try the Signature Room on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building.

Citylghts,

Thanks. According to Google Maps it's 2.5 miles from Oak St at the north end of Magnificent Mile to the south end of Millennium Park. They say it's a 50 minute walk.

I guess I know where to look now.

Thanks.

River North as mentioned above and Streeterville, the east side of Michigan Ave to the lakefront, would give you good locations. I lived south of the river one time and didn't care for that location, preferred living north of the river. Don't eat on Michigan Avenue rather just off of it in River North or Streeterville.