Chicago Travel Guides

Chicago is safe for tourists, however, like most big cities, Chicago has its fair share of crime. Being aware of your surroundings can go a long way. Keep personal items like purses and bags close to you, and exercise extra caution at night time. As far as neighborhoods go, as long as you stick to the downtown, populated areas, you should be fine.

Spring and fall are the most recommended times to visit Chicago. The weather is mild and great for exploring the city on foot. However, locals will tell you that summers in Chicago are unmatched. If you do plan on visiting in the summer, though, know that the city can get really crowded and hot.

3-5 days is the amount of time recommended for visitors. This should give you enough time to see the sights and visit major attractions. Chicago is a big city with a lot to offer, so how tightly you pack your itinerary depends on what you’re looking to do. For a more leisurely trip with some time to explore, five days should be enough.

The Loop, or close to it, is where most visitors tend to stay. That being said, there are a lot of advantages to staying in other neighborhoods–prices may be lower, accommodations will be more low-key, and your experience is likely to be less “touristy.” The North side and Lincoln Park are good options.

Chicago has two airports: O’Hare and Midway. Both are international airports and have train access into the city. Which airport you decide to fly into will depend on a few factors. O’Hare has a wider range of airlines that fly in and out of the airport, so you’re likely to have more flight options here. Midway is technically closer to the city distance-wise, but the airlines are limited.