need feedback on Chicago getaway

My b-day is in early Jan. and I've been poking around for easy weekend getaways. Based on price and flight times I think Chicago would be a good trip. DH and I have never been there, but we'd both like to check it out. Can anyone give me some feedback on good hotels, what to do, where to eat, etc...

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

The first time we went, DH and I stayed at the MArriot on Miracle Mile- I forget the exact location- but it was PERFECT- the room was nice- the location could not have been better-near all the shopping!

Message edited 11/26/2007 9:38:36 PM.

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

We stayed in Chicago in July. We stayed at the Mariott by the water. We flew Southwest for $49 per person-see if they still have that deal. I HIGHLY recommend the restaurant Japonais-we had a GREAT meal there and it is trendy and fun with a bar downstairs.

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

I stayed at the Intercontinental when I was there on business. It was a beautiful hotel and very centrally located.

We ate at the Melting Pot when we were there - it was very romantic - too bad I was there on business!

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

Sorry i've never been so I have no rec's, but maybe try to get Oprah tix!

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

They have a great brunch at the top of the Hancock Building. It's a little pricey but, the view is great!

I've been to Chicago two times - I would recommend to stay near the Magnificent Mile. I stayed at the Radisson and it was nice (1/2 block from Magnificent mile.

It's usually less $$ to fly into Midway and it's easy to get into the city from there (via train or a $30 cab ride).

ETA - I meant Hancock Bldg - sorry for any confusion! Because of its location, it has a nicer view than the Sears Tower.

Message edited 11/29/2007 8:56:18 AM.

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

i stayed at 2 different Westin's in town and both were very nice. you have to do some shopping on magnificent mile like the others said! i would also go for drinks and/or dinner at the top of the hancock building. you get a great view of the city from up there.

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

I have been a few times. Can't really recommend any fantastic restaurants, but you MUST visit Ghiradelli's if you are a chocolate fan.

They have a store there with an ice cream shop, hot chocolate and of course tons of their chocolates!

I stay with friends, but I would stay near the mile, then you are near some great shopping and restaurants.


edited for spelling :)

Message edited 11/29/2007 1:53:40 PM.

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

I just got a ding fare from Southwest earlier for $49 each way in January to Chicago. If you plan to go, make sure you d/l the ding program.

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

FM wp, she and her husband took a weekend getaway to Chicago recently and they loved it. (She's on a cruise right now, so you won't hear back from her for a few days).

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

I don't have any hotel suggestions because we always stay with our friends.

But I highly recommend a boat cruise on the lake, going to the top of the Hancock building, a night at Howl at the Moon (dualing piano players), Navy Pier and the Miracle Mile. You definitely need to try Chicago style pizza.

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

I used to live there and am actually going in January. We are flying southwest for $118 round trip.

I do have to say, it's the worst time to go though....the weather can be brutal as well as possible airport delays.

I usually stay with friends, but I have stayed at the W Lakeshore Drive which is great and Westin Michigan Avenue which is a great location.

I have also been to, but not stayed at Hotel Indigo Its a really cute hotel and also has a great location.

Try to stay near Michigan Avenue/Gold Coast and not the loop since you will be there on vacation.

ETA - one od my favorite places to eat is a Tapas place - Cafe Babreeba

Message edited 12/1/2007 11:36:34 PM.

Re: need feedback on Chicago getaway

Thanks so much for all of the feedback. I think we've decided to postpone Chicago for a warmer time of year. We don't want our trip to get cancelled or ruined because of the weather.