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Downtown Chicago, also known as the Chicago Loop, is a great place to base yourself while exploring one of the most iconic US cities and its surrounds. Rent a car and you’ll be ideally placed to discover local highlights such as the Downtown Theater District, as well as day trip destinations further afield.
Accommodation? Check. Car? Check. Now it’s time to start discovering the beating heart of the city and the many delights that lie beyond. Read on for some recommendations.
Taking in a show is a Chicago must-do, and the city is home to many well-regarded theaters. The highest concentration is to be found in the Theater District, close to the intersection of Randolph Street and Dearborn Street. Take in a big-name show at the Oriental Theatre or find a wider range of genres on offer at the opulent Chicago Theatre.
Around a 15-minute drive from Downtown Chicago is one of the biggest Chinatowns in the US. This is the place to sample some Chinese culture as you feast on dim sum, see an ornate Buddhist temple and pick up souvenirs in the vast mall. Look out for the many pieces of public art dotted throughout the neighborhood.
Just over an hour and 30 minutes to the north by car, Milwaukee is another gem on the banks of Lake Michigan. Beer features heavily here, with brewery tours being among the city’s top attractions. The city is also known for having an events calendar packed with a fantastic range of festivals, so find out what’s on during your visit.
Don’t waste any time when you arrive in Downtown Chicago – reserve your rental car now.
Downtown Chicago is an easy place to rent a car – which is just as well, as you’ll need one to make the most of this destination. Here are some of the basics.
"You won’t need to look anywhere else but Downtown Chicago itself, as there is a wide selection of car rental firms here. These include the likes of Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and Alamo.
Yes – you’ll need to be over 21. A few car rental firms may actually rule out customers under 25. However, in most cases, you will still be able to rent a car for a higher price.
Absolutely. There’s no downside: you’ll save time when you arrive, you’ll have a better choice of cars and prices, and you usually won’t have to pay a thing if you change your mind and cancel.
You’ll need a valid US driving license, a valid passport or other widely recognized photo ID card, and a credit card for your payment and security deposit. Do be aware that most companies don’t accept cash or debit card payments, so if you don’t have a credit card you’ll need to check ahead to see if an alternative can be offered.
