Name: InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
Address: 505 North Michigan Ave, Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
Telephone: 1-312-9444100
Rating: 3.9

Description

See the Windy City from above with tickets to Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower. Here, panoramic vistas offer a whole new perspective on the city skyline. A more casual, can’t-miss attraction is Cloud Gate, also known as “the Bean,” at Millenium Park. A short walk away, you’ll come across Chicago Union Station, a magnificent Beaux-Arts landmark and train station with active Amtrak routes. Even if you aren’t traveling, you can still check out the shops or grab a snack here.

Explore the Magnificent Mile for upscale shopping along Michigan Avenue, or discover unique finds at smaller boutiques on Halsted and Clark Streets. From here, make your way down to the nearby Navy Pier, and then (possibly the most important stop of your trip) to the Art Institute of Chicago, which is ranked one of the top museums in the world.

The city’s cultural hotspots include the legendary Green Mill, a cash only cocktail lounge that hosts live music, comedy shows, and even poetry readings. If you’re looking to sharpen your cooking skills, sign up for a hands-on class at The Chopping Block, where you'll learn to whip up delicious dishes like a pro.

In the summer, Chicago weather is glorious. Surround yourself with nature at the Garfield Park Conservatory or embark on a kayak adventure along the Chicago River. Alternatively, you can get that heart rate up with a stroll, run, or bike ride along the scenic Bloomingdale Trail. With kids in tow, you may also want to pay a visit to the animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo. A fun and free activity is the Millenium Park Summer Music Series, featuring a wide variety of music from local, national, and international artists at the Pritzker Pavilion. During the wintertime, a seasonal skating rink is constructed for locals and visitors to glide across the ice festively. Admission to the skating rink is free and you might even be able to snag free skating lessons if it’s your first time or if you need a quick refresher.

When it comes to sports in Chicago, you’ll never be bored. Cheer on the Cubs at the historic Wrigley Field (home to the Chicago Cubs since 1914), or catch a game at Soldier Field, the oldest football stadium in the country. Guaranteed Rate Field, formerly known as US Cellular Field, on the South Side of Chicago is where the White Sox play since 1991.

Near the West Side of Chicago, experience the thrill of basketball or hockey at United Center, an indoor arena home to the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks. Here, passionate fans come together to witness action-packed matches or sing-along to their favorite artists’ songs at regular concerts. There are dozens of diverse dining options at United Center including a taqueria by famed Girl & the Goat chef Stephanie Izard. And—of course—burgers, beer, and Chicago dogs abound.

Description

On the Magnificent Mile, InterContinental Chicago exudes pure luxury in the heart of the Windy City. In a historic 1929 building, the architectural landmark holds stories from nearly a century ago and has preserved its Roaring 20’s charm while also being newly renovated. Pet-friendly and near some of the best places for sightseeing like Navy Pier and Millennium Park, the InterContinental Chicago boasts world-class amenities including a spa, sauna, and a Junior Olympic swimming pool. Enjoy seasonal programming here like the Winter Chalet and Jazz Nights in the lobby every Thursday.

Voted one of the best hotels in the country by US News & World Report, the Four Diamond-rated Kimpton Gray Hotel radiates timeless sophistication in the Loop neighborhood. A short walk to Willis Tower and Union Station, the Gray hosts a nightly social hour in the lobby living room just for guests and even has a Somadome meditation pod in the wellness lounge that guests can book for color light therapy, sound therapy, or just a quiet relaxing break from the world. A chic urban retreat in downtown Chicago, the Gray is pet-friendly, provides guests with access to bikes, and serves coffee from La Colombe, an integrity-driven coffee roaster.

Close to the West Loop, Fulton Market, and Millenium Park, voco Chicago downtown provides guests with a swanky stay in the River North neighborhood, an area known for impeccable art and design. With an indoor pool (it has a glass ceiling!) and gym on the 16th floor, guestrooms with gorgeous city views, and even self-parking that includes in-and-out privileges, the trendy hotel is a centrally-located stylish oasis perfect for exploring the city on foot or by car.

Maybe you’re traveling to Chicago and plan to stay a bit outside the city near family or friends. If so, you might find that flying into Chicago Midway International Airport is the way to go and that a stay at the boutique Hotel Indigo Naperville Riverwalk (just 40 minutes by car from downtown Chicago) is exactly what you’re looking for. Escape the hustle and bustle with a scenic retreat along the Riverwalk, where contemporary comforts meet suburban tranquility. The hotel has a lovely rooftop bar, where you can grab a drink and see the city’s murals from above. While in the area, visit Naper Settlement, an outdoor history museum, or Centennial beach for swimming and sunbathing. Downtown Naperville is also a fun place to window shop or grab a coffee.

Description

Step into the world of a basketball legend at Michael Jordan's Steak House at InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile. Here, you’ll savor premium steaks and seafood in a classy atmosphere, complemented by an extensive wine selection. Expect the highest quality steaks here, prepared to your liking.

Or experience a culinary trifecta at the Kimpton Gray Hotel with its three wonderful restaurants: Boleo, Vol. 39, and The Fillmore. Boleo offers tasty Latin-inspired cuisine and cocktails on the 15th floor rooftop; on the second floor, Vol. 39 provides a cozy lounge setting for classic cocktails and light bites; and on the lobby level, The Fillmore named after San Francisco’s famously diverse district, serves innovative West Coast and American-Asian fare in a chic dining space.

Heighten your dining experience at Waterview, located on the 15th floor of voco Chicago downtown. With panoramic views of the skyline and Lake Michigan, plus an eclectic menu featuring classic Chicago gastronomy and handcrafted cocktails, Waterview is open for both happy hour and dinner.

Did you know Chicago is home to the second largest Mexican-born immigrant community in the U.S. outside of Los Angeles? It’s no wonder there are incredible and authentic Mexican restaurants that can be found all over town. Pueblo Nuevo is a family-owned favorite and the perfect place to start, with a menu consisting of green pozole, tortas, huaraches, and much more. For over a decade, the restaurant has served mouthwatering adaptations of street food in the Portage Park neighborhood and their customers come from far and wide to experience it.

You can walk into almost any Chicago restaurant and know you’ll have a great meal, but a couple musts, beloved for their very famous dishes, are Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and Portillo’s. Lou Malnati's is a Chicago institution famous for its deep-dish pizza, which features a buttery crust, rich tomato sauce, and ooey-gooey cheese. And then Portillo's has the best classic Chicago-style hot dogs (can’t leave the city without trying one), Italian beef sandwiches, and other delicious comfort foods.

The Publican - A lively gastropub specializing in hearty, rustic fare, including seafood, a pork-heavy menu, and an impressive selection of beer, the Publican is your go-to brunch spot as long as you can get a reservation. Otherwise, expect to wait for a table for hours. Trade the traditional bloody Mary or mimosa for a beer-mosa here (hefeweizen & orange juice) and pair it with the piri piri chicken schnitzel, the shrimp and grits, or the croque madame.

Description: Chicago has an abundance of transportation options and the nice thing is that you can totally get away with not having or renting a car. It might, in fact, be easier to rely on rideshare, the efficiency of the iconic 'L' train system, or the reliability of buses operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). For shorter distances, walking or biking along the scenic lakefront or through hip neighborhoods offers a chance to soak in the city's rich culture and architecture. Additionally, Chicago's expansive network of bike lanes and bike-sharing program make cycling a convenient and eco-friendly choice. With its accessible and varied transportation infrastructure, navigating the Windy City is both seamless and exhilarating.

Description: When planning a trip to Chicago, be sure to check the weather forecast for your travel dates. In spring and fall, layering is key as temperatures can vary. Bring a mix of lightweight tops, sweaters or jackets, and comfortable jeans or pants. Don't forget a sturdy pair of walking shoes for exploring the city. For summer visits, pack lightweight clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses, along with sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun. In winter, bundle up with warm coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots to stay cozy, of course. Overall, versatility is key, ensuring you're prepared for whatever the Windy City's weather and diverse activities have in store.

Description

Experience a vibrant and ever-changing cultural calendar in Chicago, where every season brings a new celebration of art, music, and tradition. There’s the Chicago Air and Water Show, where daredevil pilots take to the skies above Lake Michigan, thrilling audiences with aerobatics and gravity-defying stunts. Foodies will want to savor the city’s flavors at Taste of Chicago, one of the globe’s largest food festivals. Here, dishes from Chicago's diverse cultures and neighborhoods take center stage.

Experience the magic of the holiday season at ZooLights, as Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with sparkling lights, festive displays, and holiday activities for the whole family. Or embrace the holiday spirit even further at the Christkindlmarket, a beloved tradition that transforms Daley Plaza into a charming European-inspired village, with handcrafted gifts, festive treats, mulled wine, and live entertainment.

Rhythm is going to get you at summer music festivals like Lollapalooza and Pitchfork, where top artists from around the world converge to perform across multiple stages. If visual art is more your cup of tea, you can celebrate the ingenuity of local artists at summer art shows, where galleries and outdoor exhibitions really showcase the talents of Chicago's creative community.

Last, you’ll want to join the sea of green on Saint Patrick's Day as locals and tourists come together to celebrate Irish culture with a lively parade that includes bagpipes, drum corps, Irish dancers, and more. One of the biggest Saint Patty’s Day celebrations in the country, Chicago’s includes dyeing the Chicago River green every March. To view the parade, head to Grant Park and follow the action as it heads north from Balbo Drive and Columbus Drive.

Upcoming Events in Chicago

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Chicago Auto Show

Each February, the nation's oldest and largest auto show takes place. The Chicago Auto Show welcomes collectors and admirers who gawk at more than 1,000 vehicles, including domestic and imported passenger cars and trucks, sport utility vehicles, concept vehicles and collector cars.

Start date: February 8, 2026
End date: February 17, 2026

Event website

TheSunsetHunter

International Pop Overthrow

The event is a celebration of power-pop and indie-rock music, featuring emerging and established talents in these genres. In Chicago, the event takes place over the course of five days at popular music venues in the city and brings together diverse artists from all over the world.

Start date: April 25, 2025
End date: May 3, 2025

Event website

Official U.S. Air Force

Memorial Day Parade

Every year, there is a Memorial Day Parade held in numerous American cities, including Chicago. An important and emotional occasion, the Chicago Memorial Day Parade lets people honor and show their respect and love for the men and women who have served in the armed forces.

Start date: May 25, 2025
End date: May 25, 2025

Event website

Graffiti Photographic

Chicago Blues Festival

The largest free blues festival in the world returns with three days of blues music spread out over five stages. This festival boasts some of the most diverse and famous blues acts in the business. Previous performers include Ray Charles, B.B. King, and many more.

Start date: June 6, 2025
End date: June 9, 2025

Event website

tammylo

Lollapalooza

Without Lollapalooza, American alternative rock music history would not be the same. The festival has gotten the wide public acquainted with many acts that went on to become massively influential. In addition to rock music, some performers belong to other genres, such as hip-hop, pop, and EDM.

Start date: August 1, 2025
End date: August 4, 2025

Event website

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Chicago Air & Water Show

Millions of Chicagoans flock to the Lake Michigan shoreline to watch as the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and U.S. Army Parachute Team begin their terrifying daredevil displays. The show can be viewed from just about anywhere along the lakefront, as long as no buildings or trees obstruct the view.

Start date: August 10, 2025
End date: August 11, 2025

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Taste of Chicago

Every year, more than 65 popular Chicago restaurants open up food booths all over Grant Park so visitors can sample a broad array of goodies from this most diverse restaurant city. The food, though a touch overpriced, is eminently affordable, and the other attractions of the Taste are all free.

Start date: September 6, 2025
End date: September 8, 2025

Event website

Bruce Tuten

World Music Festival

World Music Festival helps you experience music like never before as the world's cultures converge to celebrate a common bond. Sample the gamut of contemporary, traditional and fusion styles as performers from Australia to Zimbabwe entertain at more than a dozen venues.

Start date: September 20, 2025
End date: September 29, 2025

Event website

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Bank of America Chicago Marathon

Runners converge on Grant Park each year to watch and participate in this world-class event. This is a Columbus Day tradition that invites amateur enthusiasts as well as professionals can test their mettle over 26.2 miles of Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

Start date: October 13, 2025
End date: October 13, 2025

Event website

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Chicago International Reel Shorts Film Fest

Individuals in the entertainment and film industry created this festival in 2003 so filmmakers from all over the world could display their work. This festival encourages world cinema, gives filmmakers an opportunity to inexpensively show their hard work in a public setting.

Start date: November 8, 2025
End date: November 9, 2025

Event website

ShenXin

Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville

The Christkindlmarket is a long-standing holiday tradition in Chicago that celebrates the German heritage of the city. The market features over 30 vendors offering traditional German fare, including sausages, and mulled wine. Children can participate in crafts and activities at the Kids' Corner.

Start date: November 22, 2025
End date: December 24, 2025

Event website

Chicago Festival Association

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago was first held in 1934 as a means to boost the economy during the Great Depression. This open-to-all event features numerous attractions including equestrian performances, ballet dances, fire acts, helium balloons and floats.

Start date: November 28, 2025
End date: November 28, 2025

Event website

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Chinese New Year Celebration

The Chinese New Year celebration in Chicago is a vibrant and colorful event that brings together the Chicagoland community to celebrate the beginning of a new lunar calendar year. Festivities last for a fortnight and feature a range of traditional music, dance, food, and other performances.