In searching for a hotel I've found everyhing is based on regions: the loop, north , grant park, lincoln. Which area is the most acessible to the sights, either through walking, trolleys or the L etc.?

And those sights which interest you would be.....?

stay on the magnificent mile, north michigan avenue.
everything you need is close by, including public transit access.
it's the center of chicago's universe.

Sorry, I should have mentioned which sights I want to see! Navy Pier, Sears or Hancock tower, Wrigley field, Maybe Buckingham fountain, and Meigs Feild (it's a sentimental thing). We will be in town THurs - Sat. I love to eat at little local restaurants too.

North Michigan Avenue.
Central with best selection of hotels.

If you are into shopping, then definitely Michigan Avenue, from 500 to 1000 north, or the adjacent neighborhood streets, which will be quieter: Delaware, Chestnut, Chicago Ave, Pearson, St. Clair, Superior, Huron, Erie, etc. The subway stops for Wrigley are at State and Grand or Chicago and State. Navy Pier trolleys run from Michigan at Grand Ave. Buckingham Fountain is about another mile south, but it is a wonderful walk.

I have been to Chicaho twice in the last 6 months. Both times I booked my hotels through Priceline.com and have been very satisfied. I asked for a 5 star hotel in the magnifcient mile area for $100 a night. I received 2 nights at the Le Meridian right on North Ave(very nice hotel).
The second time I booked through Priceline, I asked for 2 rooms for 2 nights in a four star hotel. My bid was $65 a nioght. Again I was in a very nice hotel right across from Bloomingdale's and Marshall Field's. I have stayed in "The Loop" area before, but felt more comfortable on the streets in The Magnificient Mile area.

I just returned from visiting Chicago and would definitely recommend staying in the Michigan Ave area north of the river (Magnificent Mile) as the best central location for sightseeing, restaurants, and other activities. I stayed at the Marriott on Michigan and Ohio Street and found its location perfect for getting to the museums and Grant Park, Navy Pier, shopping on Michigan Ave, restaurants, and public transportation access.

Cheryl,

I remember us posting about Chicago around the same time. What else was enjoyable during your trip? Restaurants, etc.

Hi Cheryl ... We really enjoyed -
Second City Comedy Club, Cubs game at Wrigley Field (take the subway) ... people watching was just as good as the game!, Blue Man Group, Art Institute, walking around Grant Park/Buckingham Fountain, river Architecture boat tour, the Navy Pier (although "touristy - we enjoyed it), John Hancock Tower at night (have a drink in their lounge), Buddy Guy's Legends Blues Club, blues at Blue Chicago and House of Blues. We were not impressed with the Museum of Science and Industry ... it would be nice to visit with kids as there are lots of 'hands on' exhibits, but otherwise we were a bit disappointed.

Restaurants we enjoyed: MK (my favorite), Gibson's Steakhouse (my husband's favorite), Brasserie Jo (excellent service and food), Wildfire (loved the atmosphere), Bin 36, and Frontera Grill. Loved the Chicago style deep-dish pizza at Pizzeria Uno's, but thought it was medicore at Giordano's. Also, had to try Chicago style hotdogs ... they were a bit different depending on where we got them (Wrigley Field & Grant Park).

Overall, we loved visiting Chicago and hope to return soon!

Cheryl - Thanks for the info! Glad you enjoyed your trip.

We were in Chicago last weekend and spent all afternoon at the Shedd Aquarium, it was wonderful. We enjoyed the dolphin and whale show and lunch in their restaurant that overlooks Lake Michigan