With the weather starting to warm up very quickly, a break from the heat is a must! People often think of vacationing to the beaches of the South but often forget about the beautiful beaches up North where the temperatures can get much cooler. The Great Lakes region has some amazing vacation destinations and city escapes that can be just perfect for your next destination exploration.
I’d like to focus on the lovely city of Chicago today. Being on the water of Lake Michigan, there are spectacular views from many of the city’s downtown areas. From outdoor attractions to museums to restaurants, this city has it all.
There are many outdoor activities to explore like the green space at Millennium Park, compete with art exhibitions, a theater and ice rink during the winter. Lincoln Park is another location that you don’t want to miss. Spend the day relaxing on the North Avenue Beach or check out the zoo and the history museum as you stroll along the lake shore. There is even the Lincoln Park Conservatory which houses thousands of plants, from tropical species to seasonal flowers, in a glass-domed structure.
The Cubs pro baseball team makes it’s home at Wrigley Field. The Magnificent Mile, which is a 13-block stretch of North Michigan Avenue, offers upscale shopping along with luxury hotels to compliment your trip. To the north, the leafy Gold Coast district has walking and bike trails along the lake. The fabulous food scene includes up and coming restaurants and casual dining which offer local specialties like deep-dish pizzas and relish & mustard -topped hot dogs.
I had the pleasure of staying at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago in the Gold Coast district on one of my first visits. It is by the Magnificent Mile which is a wonderful shopping destination in the downtown area as well. It has perfected the art of hospitality and developed an approach to luxury that has never been duplicated. Iconic architecture, a thriving culinary scene, beautifully landscaped public spaces and an array of museums are just part of what draws visitors to the Windy City. Inspired by its iconic address, which unites city, lake and sky, The Ritz-Carlton Chicago is a beacon in the downtown area.
Another property I had the pleasure of staying with multiple times is the Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago. This hotel is acclaimed for its extraordinary service and amenities, from the courteous door staff to rooms designed to match your lifestyle. The striking hotel houses 339 gracious guestrooms and suites with custom furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows; Terrace 16 featuring a stylish indoor bar and dining room, as well as seasonal outdoor seating on its idyllic terrace; and the luxurious 23,000-square-foot Spa at Trump. The pool is also located on a higher floor to have a spectacular view of the Navy Pier. Insider tip: The pool is a great location to see the fireworks that take place multiple times throughout the year.
I also had the opportunity to check out the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago a few years ago after a round of renovations. Each of the 345 guestrooms, including 185 suites, offers Lake Michigan and skyline views. Explore the modern art in the chic lobby and delight in creative and contemporary fare at Allium Restaurant & Bar. Refresh at the Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, enjoy a relaxing sauna or plunge into the scenic Roman Column swimming pool. The Ice Cream Man, Kids Clubroom, Martini Man and Complimentary House Car Service make this hotel an ideal destination for all travelers.
Overall this city has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a quiet beach, a delicious new dining experience or an exhilarating shopping escapade, you have found your next destination here in Chicago.