Chicago with limited mobility

Question

We're very excited about our upcoming Chicago trip. I've had such fun reading all the posts and information on Chicago. We're having fun working on tentative and itineraries for our four days in the City.

I'm fighting with some issues with my hip and right leg so I've been walking with a cane when I go anything more than a block. Since I will probably need to take an Uber to the sites and restaurants we're thinking about staying just a little bit further from the main activities. Right now we're looking at the Walton Residences through Airbnb in the Gold Coast area.

I'm interested in any input about the area or the property.

I've done some research here and didn't see anything about that property but I did see some positive posts about the Gold Coast area.

I'm hoping this leg is healed up before our trip but just trying to plan ahead a little bit.

Thanks for any input you can provide!

Answer

It sounds like you are planning a great trip to Chicago! I'm happy to provide some insight into the Gold Coast area and help with accessibility concerns for those with limited mobility.

The Gold Coast is a fantastic neighborhood to stay in if you're looking for a vibrant yet more relaxed environment while being close to the main attractions. It's one of the most upscale areas in Chicago and is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and proximity to major attractions like Oak Street Beach, the Magnificent Mile, and Lincoln Park. The neighborhood is well-connected by public transportation, but since you're planning to use Uber, it's a great spot for access to rideshare services, taxis, and easy driving routes.

Here’s a bit more about the Gold Coast and staying in that area:

Accessibility: The Gold Coast area itself is generally walkable, but it’s also known for having well-maintained sidewalks. It’s a very pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, with plenty of benches and areas to rest. Since you're planning to use Uber, most of the popular attractions are a short drive away (depending on traffic) from your Airbnb. There are also several accessible taxis available if needed.
Restaurants & Dining: The Gold Coast has a variety of restaurants ranging from casual spots to upscale dining, many of which offer excellent accessibility. There are also plenty of cafes and coffee shops with outdoor seating that might be more comfortable for you to relax in. For example, places like Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse and Fig & Olive are very popular in the area.
Proximity to Attractions: While the Gold Coast isn't directly in the heart of the downtown Loop or River North, it’s close to many major attractions. You can easily Uber to places like Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile in under 10 minutes, depending on traffic. This helps minimize the amount of walking you need to do.
Public Transport: If you need to use public transportation, the area has several bus routes that make it easy to reach popular spots. The CTA Red Line (which is accessible for those with mobility challenges) has stations nearby. However, Uber is likely your best bet for comfort and convenience with limited walking.
Walton Residences Property: I don't have specific reviews on this exact property, but generally, properties in the Gold Coast tend to be high-quality, well-maintained, and in convenient locations. If you’re unsure about accessibility within the Airbnb itself, you might want to contact the host directly to confirm details like elevator access, step-free entrances, or any other mobility-related concerns.

In terms of mobility and comfort, it’s always a good idea to reach out to any venues you plan to visit and ask about accessibility options, such as ramps or elevators, and make sure they can accommodate you with your cane. Additionally, if you're planning on walking around, many of the downtown and waterfront areas offer smooth, wide paths with plenty of opportunities for resting along the way.

Lastly, if you're looking for more accessible venues, be sure to check out Chicago's mobility-friendly websites or ask your Uber driver for recommendations. Most drivers are very accommodating for those needing a little extra help getting in and out of the car.

I hope this helps in planning your trip! Best of luck with your recovery, and I hope you have a fantastic time in Chicago!