The Willows Hotel evokes a sense of a 19th century French Countryside inn. It is located just a few blocks from Lake Michigan, Lincoln Park and Wrigley Field, the home of the Chicago Cubs.
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During your Chicago vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
Museum of Science and Industry
Even if you don't plan on spending the day in Hyde Park, you'll pass through the neighborhood on your way to one of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions. The massive Museum of Science and Industry is the granddaddy of interactive museums, with some 2,000 exhibits. You should plan on spending at least a couple of hours here, and a comprehensive visit can take all day, especially if you catch an Omnimax movie while you're here. Although it's quite a distance from the rest of Chicago's tourist attractions, it's easy enough to get here without a car; your best options are the no. 6 Jeffrey Express bus or the Metra Electric train from downtown (the no. 10 bus runs from downtown to the museum's front entrance during the summer).While the museum is constantly adding new exhibits to cover the latest scientific breakthroughs, you shouldn't miss certain tried-and-true exhibits that have been here for years and epitomize the museum for Chicagoans. The U-505, a German submarine that was captured in 1944 and brought to the museum 10 years later, brings home the claustrophobic reality of underwater naval life. The full-scale Coal Mine, which dates back to 1934, now incorporates modern mining techniques into the exhibit -- but the best part is the simulated trip down into a dark, mysterious mine. Get to these exhibits quickly after the museum opens because they attract amusement-park-length lines during the day.Kids who love planes, trains, and automobiles shouldn't miss All Aboard the Silver Streak, a refurbished Burlington Pioneer Zephyr train with on-board interactive exhibits; the massive model train exhibit that makes up The Great Train Story; or Take Flight, an aviation exhibit featuring a full-size 727 airplane that revs up its engines and replays the voice recordings from a San Francisco-Chicago flight periodically throughout the day. Computer addicts should be entranced by Networld, which offers a flashy immersion into the Internet (with plenty of interactive screens). More low-tech -- but fascinating -- is the giant walk-through model of the human heart. Well-designed educational exhibits include AIDS: The War Within (which was the first permanent museum exhibit on the immune system and HIV) and Reusable City, which teaches children ecological tips with implements that they might find in their own backyard. Older children with a creative streak will enjoy Enterprise, which lets visitors take on the role of CEO for a day as they immerse themselves in the goings-on of a virtual company.And, not to be sexist, but girls (myself included) love Colleen Moore's Fairy Castle, a lavishly decorated miniature palace filled with priceless treasures (yes, those are real diamonds and pearls in the chandeliers). The castle is hidden away on the lower level. Also tucked away in an inconspicuous spot -- along the Blue stairwell between the Main Floor and the Balcony -- are the Human Body Slices, actual slivers of human cadavers that are guaranteed to impress teenagers in search of something truly gross.A major newer addition to the museum is the Henry Crown Space Center, where the story of space exploration is documented in copious detail, highlighted by a simulated space-shuttle experience through sight and sound at the center's five-story Omnimax Theater. The theater offers double features on the weekends; call for show times.When you've worked up an appetite, you can visit one of the museum's five restaurants, including a Pizza Hut and an ice-cream parlor, and there are also two gift shops. Allow 3 hours.
Field Museum of Natural History
Is it any wonder that Steven Spielberg thought the Field Museum of Natural History suitable home turf for the intrepid archaeologist and adventurer hero of his Indiana Jones movies? Spread over the museum's 9 acres of floor space are scores of permanent and temporary exhibitions -- some interactive, but most requiring the old-fashioned skills of observation and imagination. But navigating all the disparate exhibits can be daunting.You'll start out in the grand Stanley Field Hall, which you enter from either the north or south end. Standing proudly at the north side is the largest, most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil ever unearthed. Named Sue for the paleontologist who found the dinosaur in 1990 in South Dakota, the specimen was acquired by the museum for a cool $8.4 million following a high-stakes bidding war. The real skull is so heavy that a lighter copy had to be mounted on the skeleton; the actual one is displayed nearby.Families should head downstairs for two of the most popular kid-friendly exhibits. The pieces on display in Inside Ancient Egypt were brought to the museum in the early 1900s, after researchers in Saqqara, Egypt, excavated two of the original chambers from the tomb of Unis-ankh, son of the Fifth Dynasty ruler Pharaoh Unis. This mastaba (tomb) of Unis-ankh now forms the core of a spellbinding exhibit that realistically depicts scenes from Egyptian funeral, religious, and other social practices. Visitors can explore aspects of the day-to-day world of ancient Egypt, viewing 23 actual mummies and realistic burial scenes, a living marsh environment and canal works, the ancient royal barge, a religious shrine, and a reproduction of a typical marketplace of the period. Many of the exhibits allow hands-on interaction, and there are special activities for kids, such as making parchment from living papyrus plants.Next to the Egypt exhibit, you'll find Underground Adventure, a "total immersion environment" populated by giant robotic earwigs, centipedes, wolf spiders, and other subterranean critters. The Disneyesque exhibit is a big hit with kids, but -- annoyingly -- requires an extra admission charge ($7 on top of regular admission for adults, $3 for kids).You might be tempted to skip the "peoples of the world" exhibits, but, trust me -- some are not only mind-opening, but they're also great fun. Traveling the Pacific is hidden up on the second floor, but it's definitely worth a stop. Hundreds of artifacts from the museum's oceanic collection re-create scenes of island life in the South Pacific (there's even a full-scale model of a Maori meeting house). Africa, an assemblage of African artifacts and provocative, interactive multimedia presentations, takes viewers to Senegal, to a Cameroon palace, to the savanna and its wildlife, and on a "virtual" journey aboard a slave ship to the Americas. Native Chicagoans will quickly name two more signature highlights: the taxidermies of Bushman (a legendary lowland gorilla who made international headlines while at the city's Lincoln Park Zoo) and the Man-Eating Lions of Tsavo (the pair of male lions who munched nearly 140 British railway workers constructing a bridge in East Africa in 1898; their story is featured in the film The Ghost and the Darkness).The museum hosts special traveling exhibits (recent blockbusters included shows on Cleopatra and the jewels of Russia), as well as numerous lectures, book signings, multi-ethnic musical and dance performances, storytelling events, and family activity days throughout the year. The Corner Bakery cafe, located just off the main hall, is a cut above the usual museum victuals (to avoid the lunchtime lines, pick up one of the premade salads or sandwiches and head for the cash register). Families also flock to the McDonald's on the lower level. Allow 3 hours.
The Hancock Observatory
While not as famous as the Sears Tower, for many locals the Hancock remains the archetypal Chicago skyscraper, with its bold, tapered shape and exterior steel cross-bracing design. The Hancock Observatory delivers an excellent panorama of the city and an intimate view over nearby Lake Michigan and the various shoreline residential areas. The view from the top of Chicago's third-tallest building is enough to satisfy, but some high-tech additions to the experience include "talking telescopes" with sound effects and narration in four languages, history walls illustrating the growth of the city, and the Skywalk open-air viewing deck -- a "screened porch" that allows visitors to feel the rush of the wind at 1,000 feet. On a clear day you can see portions of the three states surrounding this corner of Illinois (Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin), for a radius of 40 to 50 miles. The view up the North Side is particularly dramatic, stretching from the nearby Oak Street and North Avenue beaches, along the green strip of Lincoln Park, to the line of high-rises you can trace up the shoreline until they suddenly halt just below the boundary of the northern suburbs. A high-speed elevator carries passengers to the observatory in 40 seconds, and the entrance and observatory are accessible for people with disabilities. Allow 1 hour."Big John," as it's referred to by some locals, also has a sleek restaurant, the Signature Room at the 95th, with an adjoining lounge. For about the same cost as the observatory, you can take in the views from the latter with a libation in hand.
The Wheeler Mansion
Style and elegance abound at the Wheeler Mansion Bed and Breakfast. Just a walk to McCormick Place Convention Center. All of the modern conveniences of a contemporary Hotel in a very special setting. Be inspired by its beauty, pampered by its comforts, and amazed by its elegance. Offering such amenities as complimentary parking, complimentary gourmet breakfast, turndown service, and pressed Egyptian cotton sheets, our all-inclusive rate makes your stay even more enjoyable. ...
Amalfi Hotel Chicago
Amalfi Hotel located in Chicago's River North features complimentary executive breakfast served each morning, evening cocktail reception in the Amalfi Lounge and high-speed Internet access. Amalfi is the newest luxury hotel to grace the Chicago's River North District. Located within walking distance of The House of Blues, Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier and The Financial Loop District, the hotel features 215 luxury rooms designed with the distinguished traveler in mind. Come and experience ...
Ambassador East Hotel
A Gold coast standard, the Ambassador East Hotel offers luxury and intimacy within a short walk of both Chicago's Magnificent Mile and lake front. The Ambassador East is a historic hotel nestled in the heart of Chicago's Gold Coast. The AAA 4 diamond, Ambassador East is an inviting historical landmark that blends modern conveniences with classic architecture in a peaceful residential ...
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Most recent user reviews
very quaint
Anonymous, 2007-02-19
The Briar Street Theatre was close by where The Blue Man Group performs. There were also several resturants within walking distance as well as a walking and bike trail. Wrigley Field is also close by.
We liked everything about this hotel except for the water in the shower not being hot enough. The location close to Lincoln Park and our son's residence was perfect. We loved the old-fashioned elevator and the homey feel of the lobby. Our room was large with a sitting area.
Great value all around
Jason, 2007-02-17
The Duke of Perth, a traditional English pub, has all you can eat fish and chips on Wednesday and Friday nights. It is very popular with locals. The food is great and atmosphere is very hip.
I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone who is looking to visit Chicago on a budget. The hotel offers an excellent continental breakfast as well as an early evening snack. They even provided bottled water after breakfast for those of us heading out sightseeing. The rooms are nice and clean and the staff was very helpful. Also, street parking is usually not a problem before 6pm, and after 6pm, there are two public parking garages that are within 500 feet of the hotel.
quiet, affordable, comfortable place to rest
james, 2006-10-10
cabs are easily accessable for the brave or accustomed city dweller. A quick drive down Lakeshore Drive got you to all the activity for $10 or less excluding tip. Plan to allow at least 2 hours plus to get back to the airport if flying near peak traffic times. Coming in was 30 to 45 minutes.
The Willows takes you back in time to the era of classic city appartments, hotels of the past. Off the beaten path of the Michigan Avenue lights, sounds and traffic, one could almost picture ladies with parasols and gents with top hats strolling down the street. The staff was quite helpful, and offered suggestions for places to each, sights to see, etc. The mornings offered light breakfast in the small but dignified lobby, and afternoon coffee and tea. The tree lined streets were quiet and access to cab and bus transit a snap. For the price and ease in acquiring transit to the downtown area, the hotel was more than adequate. Amenities were nominal but adequate - a small tv, toiletries, and extra seating. No view, but we came to have a place to rest at night. The elevator was the old style with sliding gate, and I thought that added to the quaint attosphere! Overall satisfied, particularly with the price.
Great Neighborhood
Anonymous, 2006-09-04
Short walk to the water and running and biking paths.
Great neighborhood. I loved the large windows on the street side, we got a great breeze and it was still quiet. The staff was really great also, very helpful and there was always somebody there no matter what time it was.
Great for a trip to Chicago
Andrea, 2006-02-26
Restaraunts and nightlife are right around the corner. Everything else is a short cab ride away.
The Willows was a great hotel, with a very friendly staff, and a welcoming environment. The location was close to the nightlife and plenty of restaraunts in Lincoln Park. Our room was a nice size, and was perfect for four girls on a getaway weekend. I would recommend this hotel to anyone. One of the girls is recommending it to her business, for when they take trips to Chicago. Parking was an issue since it was in a neighborhood of Chicago. There was an option to park in a garage behind the hotel for a $20 fee.
Accomodating & friendly staff
Gail, Tucson, AZ, 2005-12-06
The restaurant on the corner has the best grilled hamburgers in town!
We enjoyed our stay at the Willows and would highly recommend it. The staff went out of their way to accomodate us from the manager to the check in clerk. We were first given an upgrade to a deluxe room. We would recommend asking for a deluxe room as we were able to view a regular room which was quite small. The manager overheard us talking about finding available parking which is a problem in the area and gave us free parking so we wouldnt have to look for parking in the evening with the cold weather. The clerk was extremely helpful and friendly also. The rooms were very clean and the bed was quite comfortable with a pillow top mattess. The area is a great area to stay as it is close to so many attractions in the exclusive Lincoln Park area and close by to taking a bus to downtown Chicago when the weather is condusive. There is a nice continental breakfast served in the lobby from 7 to 11 am which consists of bagels cereal coffee and tea . There is also social hour at 4 pm where lemonade and cookies are served. The lobby has a warm decor with a fireplace and couch and chairs and there is Internet access with a fee. The elevator adds to the charm and looks like it is from the 50s . It does work well but is bit difficult to open. We will definitely come back to the Willows when the weather is warmer and we can enjoy the wonderful Lincoln Park neighborhood!
Unique , quiet hotel
Sandra, Baltimore, MD, 2005-11-30
Lots of choices for dining within walking distance
The Willows Hotel was like going back in time. The staff went out of their way to accommodate requests. They were knowledgeable about the area with recommendations for dining and entertainment. Although it was a distance from McCormack Place (the convention I was attending), I found the neighborhood charming.
Great Neighborhood, Poor Quality
Anonymous, St Louis, MO, 2005-10-23
Staying adjacent to Lincoln Park is a real plus however with a room the size of a closet and furnishings that look like they have been around for 40 years, be certain you want to spend lots of time outside the hotel.
Great neighborhoood hotel
Sameer, Austin, TX, 2005-09-28
There are some nice neighborhood bars around the corner.
The Willows is a great hotel located in a semi-downtown neighborhood in Chicago. The room was spacious, well-appointed, and clean. The hotel also had a small continental breakfast in the morning. The room itself had a ceiling fan, which was a nice touch. I highly recommend this hotel over larger chain counterparts, it has a much better feel and atmosphere. The rooms also have wireless internet capability, but that does cost around $10.
Boutique Hotel - High Status - Few Amenities
Anonymous, St Louis, MO, 2005-09-04
Bars, nightclubs, and restaraunts are within walking distance for all lifestyles.
The Willows is a boutique hotel with style. The room had comfort and you can tell the hotel had substance as far as upscale value in the way of towels, sheets, comfort, etc. This hotel is in the trendy Lincoln Park neighborhood and is convient to many trendy shops, dining, and shopping. The hotel itself offers no amenities in the way of a business center, pool, or dining. What this hotel does offer is location, location, location. If you are trying to catch a game at Wrigley Field, or a quick walk to Lincoln Park or Lake Michigan - this is your place to stay.
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