Planning a trip to the Chicago area? Then Marriott and its broad range of hotel brands has got you covered. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic city getaway or a family looking for kid-friendly fun in the suburbs, you’re sure to find a Marriott hotel that’s right for you. And be sure to check out special offerings, such as live DJ music at Aloft and local running maps provided by Westin hotels.
Once you’ve got your hotel set, explore the exciting attractions close by. We’ve listed some of the must-sees in downtown Chicago and the nearby suburbs to help kick-start your trip.
Downtown Chicago
Downtown Chicago is home to some of the city’s top attractions. At the iconic Millennium Park snap a selfie in front of the shiny “Bean” sculpture or catch a free concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
Nearby is the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago, home to one of the largest collections of French Impressionist art outside of the Louvre. Or walk over to the Museum Campus and marvel at the dinosaurs at the Field Museum, see smiling whales at the Shedd Aquarium, and explore infinity and beyond at the Adler Planetarium.
For fun on the water, dive into the Chicago Riverwalk, where you’ll find outdoor cafes and locally made goods. Just steps away is the Chicago Architecture Center, with fascinating exhibits and a huge selection of tours. Don’t miss the popular Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady, which glides past stunning architectural gems nestled along the Chicago River. Another must-do waterfront attraction is Navy Pier, home to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, sky-high Centennial Wheel, dockside restaurants, and free summertime fireworks.
Don’t leave town without taking in a stunning bird’s-eye view of the city. Step out onto The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago, hovering 103 floors atop the Willis Tower. Or take a turn on TILT at 360 CHICAGO, a thrill ride that tilts you over the edge of the observation deck, perched 1,030 feet above The Magnificent Mile.
Northern suburbs
The northern suburbs offer plenty of fun family adventures. Six Flags Great America in Gurnee is known for its rip-roaring rollercoasters, while its adjacent Hurricane Harbor features thrilling water rides.
Let the little ones run free and wander through more than 27 beautiful gardens, including the kid-focused Nature Play Garden, at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe.
If you’ve got teens in tow, see a show at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie or catch a summer concert at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, where part of the experience is picnicking on the lawn.
Western suburbs
The western suburbs offer many unique attractions. Tour the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District in Oak Park, home to the landmark Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio — where the legendary architect perfected his groundbreaking Prairie style of architecture — and Unity Temple, part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Morton Arboretum in Lisle is a living outdoor tree-filled museum with winding nature trails and awesome events that include wine-and-art walks and evening concerts under the stars.
The Naperville Riverwalk in Naperville offers nearly two miles of brick paths that wend past wood-covered bridges and outdoor sculptures along the scenic DuPage River.
Stay close to the action by booking a stay at a Chicago-area Marriott hotel!