I've flown into and out of Midway, but can't recall using O'Hare, and I have to make a choice based. The flight to O'Hare is more convenient, but not by much. Any great difference in distance to the Hyatt? Any other factors I should consider? (early April weekend trip)

Also, I'll be with a group of about 10 people from around the country. Any suggestions for a nice place for dinner, other than Berghoff? Walking distance to the Hyatt would be a plus.

Thanks for your help

I think it would take about the same amount of time to get to your hotel from either airport, if you mean the Hyatt Regency Chicago, near the river and just off north Michigan Avenue. The last time I was at Midway, last summer, there was mass confusion and construction going on, so I'd say use O'Hare if the flight is also more convenient. Both have el service downtown, and the transit time by cab would depend on the time of day and luck!

There are lots of great restaurants--many in close proximity to the Hyatt. A few would be Mantuano's, Brasserie Jo, Bice, Coco Pazzo, Capitol Grill--I could go on and on, you need to specify price range and type of cuisine.

Colleen,
I recommend Midway. Nearby road construction notwithstanding, it is a MUCH less congested, much easier airport to get through. The shuttle will get you to the Hyatt easily.

Regarding restaurants, there are many, many good places to eat, much better than the Berghoff. If you're holding to a budget I would recommend Miller's Pub, which isn't far from the Berghoff. There is a nice restaurant in the Palmer House Hilton as well. You pretty much can't go wrong on North Michigan Ave. Two more very good, mid-priced restaurants are Bandera and Blackie's (very good burgers). For more ideas you should check out the Chicago Tribune's Metromix website, www.metromix.com.

Midway is definitely closer.

And if you're riding the train, the ride is much better to Midway than O'Hare (newer lines/cars).

Hello Colleen:

I vote for Midway, too. I use Midway regularly; always prefer it over O'Hare.

The orange line elevated train from Midway is new and goes right to the center of town in 30 - 35 mins. The blue line from O'Hare makes more stops and takes longer (45+ mins.) And because O'Hare is so big, it takes longer for planes to taxi to the gate and for you to get through the airport.
Overall it does add time to your trip.

Midway is less expensive, too. The shuttle bus to downtown is less from Midway (it was $11 last time I used it). Cabs are cheaper, too. But just ride the orange line train for $1.50 and you'll get right downtown fast.