Hotel Help Please !!

Question

I have searched several forums and got different answers. Traveling to Chicago for a few days as new tourists ! I keep reading to look at River North area. Is this the best place to stay? We just want somewhere safe and where we can maybe walk to a restaurant at night. Is that possible? Another recommendation was Club Quarters at Wacker and Michigan.

We will be going to the Field Museum and the Aquarium as well as a few other things.

Thank you very much for your time.

Answer

Welcome to Chicago! It's great to hear you're planning a trip to the city. River North is definitely one of the best neighborhoods for tourists, and I can understand why you keep hearing about it. However, there are a few other areas to consider, depending on your preferences for convenience, safety, and walking distance to restaurants and attractions.

River North: River North is an excellent choice for a tourist-friendly stay in Chicago. It's known for its vibrant nightlife, a wide variety of restaurants, art galleries, and proximity to shopping. It's a bustling, safe area with plenty of things to do, so if you’re hoping to walk to restaurants at night or explore the neighborhood in the evening, River North would be ideal. You'll also be close to the Magnificent Mile (a major shopping district) and about a 15-minute walk from Navy Pier, which has restaurants and attractions. It's about a 10-15 minute drive or a short bus ride to the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium, so you can easily access these major attractions too.

Club Quarters at Wacker and Michigan: This is another good option. It's centrally located right by the Chicago River, making it convenient to both the River North area and downtown attractions. The hotel is in a more business-oriented area but is still very safe and walking distance from places like the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and the waterfront. It’s also close to public transit, which makes it easy to get to the Field Museum, the Aquarium, and other destinations without too much hassle. While the immediate neighborhood might be a little quieter in the evening compared to River North, there are still plenty of restaurants and bars within walking distance, especially along the Riverwalk or in the nearby Loop district.

Here are some other neighborhoods and hotel options you might want to consider:

The Loop: If you prefer being right near the heart of Chicago’s downtown, The Loop is another solid choice. It's where you'll find the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago. It’s an easy walk or short ride to many attractions, and the area has a range of dining options in the evenings. For hotels, you can consider the Palmer House Hilton or the Hyatt Centric The Loop, both of which are central and affordable.
Streeterville: This neighborhood is home to the Navy Pier and is just a short distance from the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium. Streeterville is a bit quieter than River North but still has plenty of dining options and is within walking distance of many tourist spots. You might want to check out the The Westin Chicago River North or the DoubleTree by Hilton for a comfortable stay.
Gold Coast: If you want something a bit more upscale, the Gold Coast is a great area with beautiful, historic architecture, great shopping, and dining. It's about a 10-15 minute walk to the lakefront and the Michigan Avenue shopping area. Hotels here include the Drake Hotel and the Four Seasons, both excellent for those seeking a more luxurious stay.

In conclusion, River North is indeed a top choice for tourists due to its lively atmosphere, restaurants, and proximity to the Magnificent Mile. However, if you prefer a quieter, yet still central, area with easy access to attractions, Club Quarters at Wacker and Michigan is also a solid option. Both locations are safe, convenient, and provide good access to major sights, including the Field Museum and Aquarium. Whichever you choose, you’ll be in a great spot to enjoy your time in Chicago!

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