Planning a trip to Chicago had been on our bucket list for some time; my wife had always wanted to visit. This year we managed to tick it off the list and it was mostly successful, but it did have its hiccups. Our first concern was ensuring that we had transportation from the airport to our hotel and this was relatively easy as it turned out. Having emailed Chitowncabbie and paid a deposit, the guy was at the door waiting for us, just as arranged. With lots of space inside for us all as well as our luggage, the service was great. However, the great service ended at the hotel door as every other booking we made was a no-show or last-minute cancellation. Fortunately, the elevated train was close to our hotel.
Having chosen the Palmer House Hotel for our vacation, we were not disappointed with the architecture of the building as we entered. The staff were helpful at the door and directed us to reception, whilst they took our luggage. When we attempted the check-in, our room had not been vacated and the occupant had indicated that they were staying on in the room! Apparently, this is a regular practice in the USA and there is nothing the hotel management can do about it. After a little while management was able to offer us a downgraded accessible room, which we had no choice but to accept.
Day 2
Our first full day was really a stroll around the lakefront side of the city, which was tiring but thoroughly enjoyable. From our hotel, we made our way to the Navy Pier and then headed south from there all the way along the shore. It was lovely and warm, with a light breeze to keep us refreshed in between comfort breaks. The pier itself was an interesting place to hang out and there were numerous bus services here, which is always a bonus when dealing with no show taxis.
We had our lunch here at Harry Carey’s Tavern, which was excellent. Having decided to walk our lunch off, we headed towards the stadium of the Chicago Bears, once again following the lake shore. We couldn’t get inside the stadium and to be honest the accessibility signage to get to the store was very poor and needs improving. In hunting round for the store, we came across the eternal flame for the Special Olympics as well as a waterfall dedicated to the military. So, getting lost was no bad thing. By the end of our walk, we opted for dinner in the hotel restaurant and an early night.
Day 3
This was jam packed with tourism adventure, which included a visit to Willis Tower to see the viewing gallery and a cruise on the city’s waterways. Before all of this, a walk on the Millennium Mile had to be done in order to fulfil the needs of a daughter who wanted to do some retail adventure! For those who do not enjoy shopping, I have to say the artwork and architecture of the buildings on the Mile are worth a visit, I particularly enjoyed the Chicago Tribune building. Following on we headed for the Willis Tower to go to the Skydeck. The crowds of people thronged around the building and out onto the sidewalk, it was very disconcerting to look at. We joined the queue only to be told a few minutes later that wheelchair users could head straight to the front of the line. I can only say that it was worth the wait and rolling onto the Skydeck glass is not something I will easily forget.
Day 4
We got to try the elevated train, which had been rattling above our heads each morning as we left our hotel. The nearest station also happened to be an accessible one, which was more luck than design. We were heading to Wrigley Field, the home of the Chicago Cubs. There was to be a game the following night and we were hoping to secure tickets to be able to go. The train was easy to use and with all elevators working was very accessible, we secured our tickets, had a brief look around and returned to the city to look around Millennium Park and visit the Art Institute of Chicago. The park is built over the city’s railway system and this can be seen from the bridge at the road. With waterfalls and the iconic Bean, the park is an enjoyable place to visit and is across the road from the Art Institute, which is bright and airy. The elevator configuration for wheelchair users can be a little disorientating as the Institute is an amalgamation of old and new buildings, but it is most enjoyable.
Day 5
Everyone says that a river cruise to show off the city’s architecture is one of the best experiences when visiting Chicago and I would not disagree. We boarded a cruise, which was only restricted by the deck that I could get onto. I had a clear view of everything, but there was no shade available to me on the hot summer day. That evening was the much-anticipated baseball came at the Cubs. The train was full heading out to the stadium, but everyone was friendly and accommodating, allowing me access to the wheelchair space. Once inside the stadium, we had to head to the concession stand and buy a hotdog! It was delicious and it was all part of the experience. The guide who took us to our seat was very knowledgeable and told us where the nearest accessible restroom was etc. He also introduced us to our neighbours for the match and asked them to explain the rules – as we were visitors. It was all very welcoming, and we had a great night, both watching the baseball and the camaraderie with the folks sitting beside us.
We packed in a lot of activity over the five days and certainly felt like we had seen a great deal of the city and experienced a lot of what was on offer. We enjoyed the food and hospitality of the Chicago people and would definitely want to head back again, maybe for Christmas!
Post Categories: Places Travel Advice Summer Getaways
