Chicago hotel help!!!

[lulugirl]

So, Dh, Dd and I are going to Chicago this July!
Initially we were going because Dh was scheduled to attend conferences there.....long story short his job isn't paying for the trip and we're going anyhow so we are on our own and I don't know which hotel to choose!!
I checked out several sites (hotels.com orbitz etc.) the thing is I really don't don't know the city at all and I would like a conveniently located hotel.
We have tickets to see Wicked (theatre is located on Randolph St.) we would also like to go to Shedds Aquarium. Any suggestions on a hotel within walking distance or quick taxi ride?
We would like to spend about $250 per night.
Any input would be greatly appreciated!
-Elisabeth

 

[kctwinmommy]

I know there are people more well-versed than I am in this subject, but pretty much anything on Michigan Ave or just off there, will be the best for you. Most hotels on Michigan are a few blocks from all the theaters and restaurants that you'll want, and then proably a short taxi drive over to the Shedd. Although you can walk it, just depends on how much walking you want to do.

I know the Omni and the Drake are in that area, as well as several others. Like I said, I know there are others here who know the hotels better than I do...

 

[kctwinmommy]

Just wanted to bump this up for ya'! I know there are a bunch of people with good advice!

 

[lulugirl]

Thanks! I'm hoping for more feedback!

 

[sugarpie]

We went to Wicked last May and we stayed at Hard Rock Hotel. It's on Michigan Avenue and is close to Randolph Street. We walked to and from the theater.

We used Priceline to book a hotel, chose a 4 star (at least I think it's a 4 star) hotel on Michigan Avenue and put in a bid. We got Hard Rock Hotel, and I loved it! I can't remember what we payed but it was less than $200 a night and it was Labor Day weekend. If you don't care which hotel you get I definitely recommend using Priceline.

There are tons of great places to eat in the area, too. Oh, and the shopping!

 

[Yzerbear19]

Mine and my sister's favorite hotel in Chicago is the Best Western River North located across from the Rock N Roll McDonald's and Rainforest Cafe. We took a cab to Wicked which I think cost I think $4.50 because we weren't really sure how to get to the theater. We ended up walking back to the hotel, which I think was like a mile or less. Its not too far from Michigan Ave. I think its like 5 blocks. We like the BW River North because they have free parking, a pool on the sixth floor with a view of the city, really nice comfy beds, spacious rooms, and rubber duckies! We will be going back in June! I can't wait!

Here is their website:
http://www.rivernorthhotel.com/

Our rate for June for Friday-Sunday with AAA is $189.10.

 

[kctwinmommy]

Thanks! I'm hoping for more feedback!

No prob! The 2 that the others have recommended are nice hotels! It's sad that I live here, but I can't tell you too much about the nice hotels. I last stayed at one dowtown in 2001, for a romantic weekend with DH, that I won in a raffle! So, I'm not too well versed in the good hotels. Oh, but if you try to do a search, there's an 8-9 page thread about food and sights!! I think it says something like "Southside Impromptu Renuion" cuz the original poster had a bunch of southside Chicagoans replying and comparing notes. But it had a ton of info it it. It was within the last 10-14 days I'd say...

 

[ZuZugal]

Our family went to Chicago on spring break and we stayed at the Embassy Suites Riverfront on Columbia Dr. It was a perfect location...2 blocks off of Michigan (an easy walk even for DS4) and very simple to get on the bus too. We got 3 day CTA passes; good for busses and the L. (never took the car out of the parking garage once we were there.)

It has a small pool and free daily breakfast/managers reception. With a family a 5 the breakfast was a $$ saver for us. It was very clean and the concierge staff was helpful too. There is a Dominics store right across the street which has a Starbucks inside. They sell 1 day CTA passes there if you only need 1 or 2 days.

It was a very easy bus ride to the Shedd. I think that was our favorite place to visit while there.

We also went to the Rainforest Cafe. I believe it was on Clark street. We walked back to the hotel after that. It was not a short walk, but the weather was great and we like to walk and see the sights. You can sign up for the Rainforest "club" online and they'll send you a card. With it you get special priviledges and certificates. Show it before your meal and you'll get a free appetizer or 10% off of the meal.

PM me if you have any questions and I'll try to help. Have fun!!