Airports
Chicago has two airports: O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport. O’Hare, about 15 miles northwest of downtown, is the third-busiest airport in the U.S. Midway is about 12 miles southwest of Chicago.
Getting around
The Chicago Transit Authority’s train and bus service is an easy way to get to or from the airport. The Metra Commuter Rail is another train option. Apps ARRO and CURB will connect you to taxis. Or hail a ride from Uber or Lyft. Water taxies are a fun way to get around the city. Want to go green? Rent a bike from Divvy.
Know before you go
Time zone – Central Daylight Time
Currency – U.S. dollar
Languages spoken – English
Accommodations
The Fairmont Chicago at Millennium Park
200 N. Columbus Drive; Ph: (312) 565 8000
Anchored by more than 400 acres of protected park space in the heart of downtown, the hotel offers views of Lake Michigan, Millennium and Grant parks and the Chicago skyline.
Park Hyatt Chicago
800 N. Michigan Ave.; Ph: (312) 335-1234
A two-minute walk from the Chicago Water Tower landmark, this upscale hotel is a mile from Millennium Park and two miles from The Art Institute of Chicago.
Hyatt Centric Chicago Magnificent Mile
633 N. St.Clair St.; Ph: (312) 787-1234
A block from the shops of the Magnificent Mile, this contemporary hotel is a nine-minute walk from the 360 Chicago observation deck and a mile from Millennium Park.
Workspaces
Gaslight Coffee Roasters and Dark Matter Coffee are popular workspaces. Both offer free Wi-Fi, many seating options and, of course, coffee. Dark Matter has several locations.
Looking for a quieter place to work? The Newberry Library offers reading rooms and free Wi-Fi. The reading rooms are closed on Sunday and Monday.
Coalition Space provides a more professional working environment. There are two locations. Impact costs US$20 for a day pass, while Energy costs $35. You can also rent a desk or private office.
Things to see
Willis Tower—once the world’s tallest building—is an iconic part of Chicago, and the Skydeck experience is a popular tourist attraction. Check out exhibits in the tower, then stand atop the clear ledge to see Chicago’s skyline beneath your feet.
A world-renowned art museum, the Art Institute of Chicago features a collection that spans centuries. It is a must-see.
For an outdoor experience, Millennium Park and Wrigley Field are your best bets. Millennium Park is in the heart of Chicago and offers live concerts, iconic art (The Bean) and places to walk and eat. Wrigley Field, home to the Chicago Cubs baseball team, has been a part of city since 1914. Catch a game to meet locals and have a one-of-a-kind sporting experience.
Food and drink
Deep-dish pizza was born in Chicago, and it’s a must for visitors. Try Pequod’s Pizza for award-winning pies and great atmosphere. Come hungry. One massive pizza slice is more than enough.
Another Chicago staple is the “dragged through the garden” hot dog. Get an authentic local dog at Superdawg Drive-In, open until 1 a.m. It’s the perfect way to end a long day of meetings.
For a more upscale experience, look no further than Lula Café. The steak is famous, and the farm-to-table food is fresh and made to order. The café has a great atmosphere, and the price of a meal won’t break your budget.
