Cheap Flights To Chicago
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When to Go
Airport Information
Weather
Things to Do
Local Attractions
Must See Sights
Insider Tips
Getting Around
Overview
Take Chicago Blues legends Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy, add Tina Fey and John Belushi putting Second City Troupe's brand of humor into popular culture and mix in President Barack Obama reinventing Chicago's legendary politics and you have the makings of a one-of-a-kind city.
Just when you think you understand the lure of Chicago - known by many nicknames including the Windy City and Chi Town - you discover another draw. Although the city ranks third in U.S. population -- behind New York and Los Angeles -- many rank it first in fun.
As history tells us, mobsters once ruled Chicago but crime rates have lessened tremendously even since the 1970s and 1980s. Crime statistics indicate that most violent crime in Chicago occurs in relatively confined areas on Chicago's South and West sides. The best rule of thumb is to take the precautions you'd take in any major U.S. city and don't stray into unfamiliar territories, especially unaccompanied.
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When to Go
Best Time to Go
Most agree that Fall - when weather is generally crisp and somewhat mild - is the time to head to Chi-Town. The snow doesn't arrive until late November so there's plenty of time to fully enjoy the season.
Summer seasons boast legendary festivals but if you go then prepare for steamy, sweaty times despite the cool breezes from Lake Michigan.
Low Season
As most know, Chicago winters are notoriously cold and whipping winds add to the bitterness. If you don't mind shivering your timbers, though, hotel values between December and March - when the winter gives way to a chilly, rainy spring season - are generally at the lowest.
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Airport Information
O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is usually the first that comes to mind when visitors think of Chicago. O'Hare is an international airport and one of the busiest in the U.S. located right in Chicago.
While fares to Chicago, before fees and taxes, from New York City and Miami can run about $175 to $200, and $200 to $250 from Los Angeles, cheap flights to Chicago can be had for significantly less. ORD and MDW are great airports to fly into, well-organized and features many traveler-oriented services and conveniences. Public transportation is readily available and lodging is plentiful, ranging from luxury suits to cheap hotels.
Alternative Airports
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW), is also in Chicago but closer to the Indiana border. Here you'll find flights on lower-cost airlines, such as Southwest.There is also a regularly scheduled bus that operates between O'Hare and Midway.
Gary-Chicago Airport, located in Gary, Indiana, does not currently have commercial airline flights.
Because so many airlines serve O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) airports, low fare flights are typically available at convenient traveling times. Cheap flights to Chicago make it easy for travelers to visit this exciting city.Depending on which airport you use, there are a host of ways to get to your hotel and other destinations in the city. For a host of information about these airports and the services offered, go to www.flychicago.com
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Weather
You've no doubt heard the old saying that if you don't like the weather in Chicago, just wait a few minutes; it will change. Temperature, humidity and other indicators vary widely even within a day. The best idea is to dress in layers so you can adjust for temperature. The National Weather Service has specifics about Chicago weather on dates you may want to visit.
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Things to Do
Architecture tours: When you want to ride in a bus, float in a boat, or use your own foot power, you'll find plenty of tours to love. Many visitors highly rate the tours given by the Chicago Architecture Foundation. The guides are real Chicago enthusiasts, not just "daytime tour guides". One terrific tour is the "Lights, Camera, Chicago," which shows visitors the Chicago landmarks that have been in feature films and television shows (Hint: "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "The Bob Newhart Show").Information: 312-922-3432 x 240; http://www.architecture.org/
"Untouchables Tours": Al Capone and John Dillinger are just two of the gangsters you'll learn about in this kid-friendly history that tells the story of notorious outlaws. On the tour, you'll see the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre and other notorious landmarks around Chicago. Information: 773-881-1195; 800-660-8824; www.gangstertour.com
Jazz Showcase: Dizzie Gillespie is just one of the legendary jazz musicians who played at Jazz Showcase in Chicago. While the calendar changes frequently, regular visitors note that you are never disappointed with the quality of the show or the music there. Dinner packages are available. Information: 59 W. Grand Ave.312-.670-2473; www.jazzshowcase.com
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Local Attractions
Millennium Park, AT&T Plaza: You've most likely seen pictures of happy travelers and tourists next to the impressive stainless steel, elliptical sculpture found at Millennium Park's AT&T Plaza. No visit to Chicago goes without a stop at this local wonder. The 110 ton structure, Cloud Gate, was artists Anish Kapoor's first outdoor work installation in the United States.
The Art Institute of Chicago:You'll want to carefully plan to get the most out of your trip to The Art Institute of Chicago, which boasts more than 300,000 pieces from throughout the world. Noted artists whose work is displayed there include Monet (Stack of Wheat series); Grant Wood (American Gothic); and Edward Hopper (Nighthawks). The museum also hosts widely acclaimed traveling shows. Information: 111 S. Michigan Ave.312-443-3600;www.artic.edu
Museum of Science & Industry: The Museum of Science & Industry, the first U.S. museum to feature interactive displays, is especially popular with families. One of the best-known exhibits is the German U-505 submarine, which was captured during WWII. While the sub was almost demolished after it was captured, the museum adopted and refurbished it as a tribute to sailors who gave their lives during both World Wars. Information: 5700 South Lake Shore Drive; 703-684-1414
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Must See Sights
Sears Tower: This is still the tallest building in America, measuring 4,500 feet high with 110 stories. Don't miss the SkyDeck, which offers great views and interactive displays for adults and kids. You can also get a great glimpse of Illinois, Indiana and even Michigan when the skies are clear.
One thing to note: The tower is not affiliated with Sears Roebuck, contrary to urban myths. Information: 233 South Wacker Dr.312-875-9696; www.thesearstower.com
Navy Pier: Part amusement park, part restaurant zone, and part retail center, The Navy Pier has become a must visit site since it was built in the late 1950s. You'll also find plenty of "mom & pop" style restaurants. Try those instead of the chains for an authentic taste of Chicago. Information: 600 E. Grand Ave.800-595-7437; www.navypier.com
The Magnificent Mile: If you are shopping with a group that has varied interests, this is the top spot to go. It's a shoppers' paradise with more than 450 stores in fewer than 10 blocks on North Michigan Avenue. Just hop in a taxi and tell them to take you to the Magnificent Mile. They'll know right where to go.
Back to top
Insider Tips
Getting Around
Unlike some other large cities, public transportation in Chicago is inexpensive (generally about $1 to $2 per trip) and convenient due to many systems notably the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority), which operates both buses and trains.
Public taxis are also plentiful so your greatest task upon landing is to decide if you want to head downtown to shopping on the Magnificent Mile, or to notable Blues' clubs. If you want to take in as many sites as possible, consider one of the many available tours.
Chicago is also a great walking city so be sure to bring comfy shoes so you can wander and explore by foot.
Back to top
Cheap Flights To Chicago
OverviewWhen to Go
Airport Information
Weather
Things to Do
Local Attractions
Must See Sights
Insider Tips
Getting Around
Overview
Take Chicago Blues legends Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy, add Tina Fey and John Belushi putting Second City Troupe's brand of humor into popular culture and mix in President Barack Obama reinventing Chicago's legendary politics and you have the makings of a one-of-a-kind city.
Just when you think you understand the lure of Chicago - known by many nicknames including the Windy City and Chi Town - you discover another draw. Although the city ranks third in U.S. population -- behind New York and Los Angeles -- many rank it first in fun.
As history tells us, mobsters once ruled Chicago but crime rates have lessened tremendously even since the 1970s and 1980s. Crime statistics indicate that most violent crime in Chicago occurs in relatively confined areas on Chicago's South and West sides. The best rule of thumb is to take the precautions you'd take in any major U.S. city and don't stray into unfamiliar territories, especially unaccompanied.
Back to top
When to Go
Best Time to Go
Most agree that Fall - when weather is generally crisp and somewhat mild - is the time to head to Chi-Town. The snow doesn't arrive until late November so there's plenty of time to fully enjoy the season.
Summer seasons boast legendary festivals but if you go then prepare for steamy, sweaty times despite the cool breezes from Lake Michigan.
Low Season
As most know, Chicago winters are notoriously cold and whipping winds add to the bitterness. If you don't mind shivering your timbers, though, hotel values between December and March - when the winter gives way to a chilly, rainy spring season - are generally at the lowest.
Back to top
Airport Information
O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is usually the first that comes to mind when visitors think of Chicago. O'Hare is an international airport and one of the busiest in the U.S. located right in Chicago.
While fares to Chicago, before fees and taxes, from New York City and Miami can run about $175 to $200, and $200 to $250 from Los Angeles, cheap flights to Chicago can be had for significantly less. ORD and MDW are great airports to fly into, well-organized and features many traveler-oriented services and conveniences. Public transportation is readily available and lodging is plentiful, ranging from luxury suits to cheap hotels.
Alternative Airports
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW), is also in Chicago but closer to the Indiana border. Here you'll find flights on lower-cost airlines, such as Southwest.There is also a regularly scheduled bus that operates between O'Hare and Midway.
Gary-Chicago Airport, located in Gary, Indiana, does not currently have commercial airline flights.
Because so many airlines serve O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) airports, low fare flights are typically available at convenient traveling times. Cheap flights to Chicago make it easy for travelers to visit this exciting city.Depending on which airport you use, there are a host of ways to get to your hotel and other destinations in the city. For a host of information about these airports and the services offered, go to www.flychicago.com
Back to top
Weather
You've no doubt heard the old saying that if you don't like the weather in Chicago, just wait a few minutes; it will change. Temperature, humidity and other indicators vary widely even within a day. The best idea is to dress in layers so you can adjust for temperature. The National Weather Service has specifics about Chicago weather on dates you may want to visit.
Back to top
Things to Do
Architecture tours: When you want to ride in a bus, float in a boat, or use your own foot power, you'll find plenty of tours to love. Many visitors highly rate the tours given by the Chicago Architecture Foundation. The guides are real Chicago enthusiasts, not just "daytime tour guides". One terrific tour is the "Lights, Camera, Chicago," which shows visitors the Chicago landmarks that have been in feature films and television shows (Hint: "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "The Bob Newhart Show").Information: 312-922-3432 x 240; http://www.architecture.org/
"Untouchables Tours": Al Capone and John Dillinger are just two of the gangsters you'll learn about in this kid-friendly history that tells the story of notorious outlaws. On the tour, you'll see the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre and other notorious landmarks around Chicago. Information: 773-881-1195; 800-660-8824; www.gangstertour.com
Jazz Showcase: Dizzie Gillespie is just one of the legendary jazz musicians who played at Jazz Showcase in Chicago. While the calendar changes frequently, regular visitors note that you are never disappointed with the quality of the show or the music there. Dinner packages are available. Information: 59 W. Grand Ave.312-.670-2473; www.jazzshowcase.com
Back to top
Local Attractions
Millennium Park, AT&T Plaza: You've most likely seen pictures of happy travelers and tourists next to the impressive stainless steel, elliptical sculpture found at Millennium Park's AT&T Plaza. No visit to Chicago goes without a stop at this local wonder. The 110 ton structure, Cloud Gate, was artists Anish Kapoor's first outdoor work installation in the United States.
The Art Institute of Chicago:You'll want to carefully plan to get the most out of your trip to The Art Institute of Chicago, which boasts more than 300,000 pieces from throughout the world. Noted artists whose work is displayed there include Monet (Stack of Wheat series); Grant Wood (American Gothic); and Edward Hopper (Nighthawks). The museum also hosts widely acclaimed traveling shows. Information: 111 S. Michigan Ave.312-443-3600;www.artic.edu
Museum of Science & Industry: The Museum of Science & Industry, the first U.S. museum to feature interactive displays, is especially popular with families. One of the best-known exhibits is the German U-505 submarine, which was captured during WWII. While the sub was almost demolished after it was captured, the museum adopted and refurbished it as a tribute to sailors who gave their lives during both World Wars. Information: 5700 South Lake Shore Drive; 703-684-1414
Back to top
Must See Sights
Sears Tower: This is still the tallest building in America, measuring 4,500 feet high with 110 stories. Don't miss the SkyDeck, which offers great views and interactive displays for adults and kids. You can also get a great glimpse of Illinois, Indiana and even Michigan when the skies are clear.
One thing to note: The tower is not affiliated with Sears Roebuck, contrary to urban myths. Information: 233 South Wacker Dr.312-875-9696; www.thesearstower.com
Navy Pier: Part amusement park, part restaurant zone, and part retail center, The Navy Pier has become a must visit site since it was built in the late 1950s. You'll also find plenty of "mom & pop" style restaurants. Try those instead of the chains for an authentic taste of Chicago. Information: 600 E. Grand Ave.800-595-7437; www.navypier.com
The Magnificent Mile: If you are shopping with a group that has varied interests, this is the top spot to go. It's a shoppers' paradise with more than 450 stores in fewer than 10 blocks on North Michigan Avenue. Just hop in a taxi and tell them to take you to the Magnificent Mile. They'll know right where to go.
Back to top
Insider Tips
- Don't miss the park that runs 18 miles along the waterfront in the heart of Chicago. It's a great place for walking, running and biking.
If you really want to get a great gander at the lovely Chicago Skyline, head to the John Hancock Tower (875 N. Michigan Ave.). You can gaze from the observatory or visit the renowned "Signature Room" restaurant on the 95 floor. Information: 312-787-9596; www.signatureroom.com
- There are plenty of free, easy access sites and tours. Find a list and other helpful information at Easy Access Chicago
Getting Around
Unlike some other large cities, public transportation in Chicago is inexpensive (generally about $1 to $2 per trip) and convenient due to many systems notably the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority), which operates both buses and trains.
Public taxis are also plentiful so your greatest task upon landing is to decide if you want to head downtown to shopping on the Magnificent Mile, or to notable Blues' clubs. If you want to take in as many sites as possible, consider one of the many available tours.
Chicago is also a great walking city so be sure to bring comfy shoes so you can wander and explore by foot.
Back to top
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