July 4th weekend

Question

My wife, 2 sons and I are visiting this 4th of July. I realize it's an expensive, crowded time with closures because of the Nascar race but it fits with our vacation and days off. A couple of questions:

What's the best way to get from OHare to the Homewood Suites River north around noon on July 4th. What should we be aware of when playing our 4 day trip? I understand the downtown riverfront parks will be closed, anything else?

We'll be going to Wrigley field on July 6th, probably go on a boat tour on July 5th and my kids want to try dip dish pizza.

Answer

Visiting Chicago during the 4th of July weekend is a great experience, but it does come with some challenges due to the crowds and events, particularly with the NASCAR race and the holiday festivities. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip.

Getting from O'Hare to Homewood Suites River North:

On July 4th, traffic in Chicago can be heavy due to parades, events, and general holiday congestion, so it’s important to plan your transportation ahead of time.

Taxi or Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft): This is the most direct and convenient option. However, depending on the time, traffic might be slow, especially around noon. The trip could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Airport Shuttle: Some hotels offer shuttles, but make sure to check if Homewood Suites provides this service. Shuttles are often shared with other travelers, so the trip could take longer than a private taxi.
Public Transit: The 'L' Blue Line is a good option to avoid traffic, and it connects O'Hare to downtown. From the Washington station, you can transfer to a bus or take a short walk to the Homewood Suites River North. This option will be cheaper but can take about 1 hour to 1.5 hours due to transfers and potential crowded trains.

Things to be Aware of During Your 4-Day Trip:

While Chicago is a vibrant city, there are a few things to keep in mind during the 4th of July weekend:

Downtown Riverfront Parks: As you mentioned, the riverfront parks near the downtown area will likely be closed for events, especially due to the fireworks and the NASCAR race. It's a good idea to check the city’s official website or contact the hotel for up-to-date info on which areas will be closed.
Crowds and Traffic: Chicago will be extremely busy, especially with the NASCAR race, which takes place around Grant Park. Be prepared for road closures, crowded public transit, and long lines for popular attractions. Plan extra time to get to places.
Fireworks: Chicago hosts impressive 4th of July fireworks displays, often along the lakefront. Popular viewing spots include Navy Pier and Grant Park, but these areas will be extremely crowded. Check the schedule and find an alternative spot, like a rooftop bar or one of the parks farther away from the center.
Restaurant Reservations: Many restaurants and attractions will have limited hours or will be fully booked. Be sure to make reservations, especially for popular places like deep dish pizza spots.
Hot Weather: Chicago can be hot and humid in early July, so dress comfortably and stay hydrated while exploring.

Activities & Attractions:

It sounds like you have a good itinerary planned! Here are a few more tips:

Wrigley Field on July 6th: Expect crowds, as it's a popular venue. Arrive early to find parking or get to the stadium, and be sure to check the game time and any special events that may affect your plans. Wrigleyville is also a fun neighborhood to explore before or after the game, with plenty of places for food and drinks.
Boat Tour on July 5th: The Chicago River Architecture Tour is highly recommended for a unique view of the city's skyline and history. Be sure to book your tickets in advance as these tours tend to fill up quickly, especially on busy holiday weekends.
Deep Dish Pizza: As for trying deep dish pizza, Chicago is known for its iconic styles. Some of the most popular places for deep dish include Lou Malnati's, Giordano’s, and Art of Pizza. It’s best to arrive early to avoid long wait times, as these spots are very popular during the holiday season.

Final Tips:

Make sure to plan your days around the busiest times (especially the NASCAR race and fireworks) and book reservations early for restaurants and attractions. If you plan to explore on foot or by bike, be mindful of road closures and detours due to the holiday events.

Overall, Chicago is a fantastic city to visit during the 4th of July weekend. With a little extra planning, you’ll be able to enjoy all the best the city has to offer!

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