Weekend in Chicago
 

We are making a last minute trip to Chicago. As such, the best flight we could get back is seven hours after our checkout time at the hotel. We'd like to spend the time sight seeing, but that leaves us the problem of what to do with our luggage. We're flying into and out of Midway, and staying at the Ritz-Carlton on Pearson. Any suggestions would be welcome.

Regarding luggage storage--there isn't any at Midway, so your best bet is to store it with the bellstand at the hotel and return there after you finish your sightseeing to pick it up. Depending on how the weather is while your in Chicago, you can go to a Cubs game (home opener is April 3rd), shop on Michigan Ave, go to the Art Museum, visit Navy Pier, walk along the lake front, shop in the Loop, iceskate at Skate on State, take in a matinee at the Chicago Theater, go to the top of the Sears Tower or John Hancock Building, designer shop on Oak St...all within walking distance or a short cab ride from your hotel. Have fun!

Hi Joe! Chicago is a great city. You'll love it. One thing I strongly recommend is to visit the Signature Room Lounge on the 96th Floor of the John Hancock Building for a cocktail. It is has a remarkable view during sunset. People are friendly here. I live in downtown Chicago and know the city very well. Any questions, e-mail me!

Chicago definitely is a great city. I ditto the comment about the Hancock view. Be sure to ask for Mike Ahmed, the Signature Lounge manager. We met him on our last trip to the city and he always took great care to give us a perfect view when we were there. (a gratuity goes a long way) Chicago is known for the blues. Be sure to visit the Blues on Clark Street. Great place!! Be sure to get the true Chicago experience by eating at Gibson's Steak House.

The hotel checkroom is your best bet (and that's a great! Hotel). They should be happy to hold on to your luggage after you check out. Another food possibility is Chicago-style pizza...you'll be within a few blocks of true mecca: Pizzaria Uno or Pizzaria Due (a block apart from one another). WHat time of year is this trip?? If it's a nice day, a short walk up (north) Michigan Avenue from the hotel, will take you to Oak Street Beach, worth the stroll. You're really in the heart of everything with your hotel locations -- shopping/restaurants...you'll have a fine time whatever you do. Just remember to allow plenty of time to get out to Midway, espcially if your flight is anywhere near rush hour. Enjoy!

Hi,
I saw your message and I was wondering if could you give me any hotel's tip.I'm going to Chicago next April,with my husband and our little boy.I need something nice but not expensive,like Holliday Inn,for instance.
Anything you can do to me,I'm gonna be very thankful!
Luciana