Chicago

North Chicago

With the O'Hare International Airport in the north of Chicago, there are plenty of deals on accommodation here, away from the more popular downtown region. Try to stay close to the transport network if you want to get away without hiring a car. Attractions in this area range from the ever-popular Lincoln Park and its free zoo, and Wrigley Field baseball stadium to the more specialist at the International Museum of Surgical Science. The Peggy Notebart Nature Museum is great for a quiet day out learning about and interacting with local nature including butterfly and bird enclosures. You can even head to Osterwood Beach to catch some rays, or at least paddle in the lake!

Downtown

Downtown is the heart of Chicago. Though it is more expensive to stay here you will be placed squarely in the centre of the action. The Willis (Sears) Tower and the John Hancock Centre let you view the area from on high whilst the Navy Pier is an entertainment hub. Shedd Aquarium provides an animal diversion, the Adler Planetarium lets you look to the skies whilst the Art Institute of Chicago and the Cloud Gate sculpture in the Millenium Park add a cultural injection to the area. And don't forget to stop by the Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park or all the shops on the "Magnificent Mile".

South

The south of Chicago is close to the Midway International Airport and if you're only in Chicago for a fleeting visit getting somewhere to stay on the south side of the downtown area will leave you in a great position to explore the city. Plus there are some delights worth travelling away from Chicago's centre for too. Cellular Field, home to the Chicago White Sox is great if you want to catch a baseball match on your holiday, or you can delve into African American History at the Dusable Museum or see what the local artists are up to at the Hyde Park Art Centre. For intrepid travellers you can even wander around the neighbourhood of Barack Obama's house, although the Secret Service will definitely be watching you!