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Things To Do In Chicago, IL

Legendary City Adventures

When in Chicago, there are some things you just have to see, taste, and experience. Perfectly situated in the heart of downtown, the Ivy Hotel puts you within reach of truly quintessential city adventures—think time-honored establishments, cultural landmarks, and modern design marvels. Start with some of our favorite spots below and see where the day takes you.

FAQ
What are the closest attractions or points of interest to the Ivy Hotel?

We are located in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood, just steps from the Magnificent Mile and close to many of the city’s top attractions. Nearby points of interest include:

  • Art Institute of Chicago (1.2 miles away) - Approximately a 10-minute drive
  • Field Museum (2.3 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute drive
  • Shedd Aquarium (2.4 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute drive
  • Chicago Riverwalk (0.6 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute walk
  • Cloud Gate / “The Bean” (1 mile away) - Approximately a 6-minute drive
  • Lincoln Park Zoo (2.6 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute drive
How far is the Ivy Hotel from the airport/downtown/beach/major landmarks?

We are located in downtown Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood, just steps from the Magnificent Mile. Approximate distances to nearby airports, beaches, and major landmarks include:

  • O’Hare International Airport / ORD (18 miles away) - Approximately a 35–60 minute drive, depending on traffic
  • Midway International Airport / MDW (13 miles away) - Approximately a 25–45 minute drive, depending on traffic
  • Downtown Chicago / The Loop (1 mile away) - Approximately a 5–10 minute drive
  • Ohio Street Beach (0.7 miles away) - Approximately a 15-minute walk
  • Magnificent Mile (0.2 miles away) - Approximately a 4-minute walk
How close is the Ivy Hotel to The Magnificent Mile?

We are 0.2 miles ( a 4-minute walk) from the Magnificent Mile.

How close is the Ivy Hotel to Navy Pier?

We are 0.7 miles (a 15-minute walk) from Navy Pier.

Is the Ivy Hotel near public transportation?

Yes, we are conveniently located near several public transportation options. The Grand CTA Red Line Station is approximately a 10-minute walk from the hotel, offering easy access to neighborhoods and attractions throughout Chicago. Guests can also find nearby CTA bus stops along Ontario Street, Fairbanks Court, and Michigan Avenue. Public transportation is a convenient option for exploring the city or traveling to and from Chicago’s airports.

How far is the Ivy Hotel from the airport, and what transportation options are available (including approximate costs and travel times)?

We are located at 233 East Ontario Street in downtown Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood. The hotel is approximately 18 miles from O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and 13 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW).

Transportation options include:

  • Taxi or rideshare from O’Hare International Airport (ORD) - Approximately 35–60 minutes, depending on traffic
  • Taxi or rideshare from Midway International Airport (MDW) - Approximately 25–45 minutes, depending on traffic
  • CTA public transportation from O’Hare - Take the Blue Line from O’Hare toward downtown, then connect by walk, bus, taxi, or rideshare to the hotel; approximately 60–75 minutes
  • CTA public transportation from Midway - Take the Orange Line from Midway toward downtown, then connect by walk, bus, taxi, or rideshare to the hotel; approximately 45–60 minutes
  • Private car service - Available by advance reservation; travel time varies based on airport, traffic, and time of day

Travel times are approximate and may vary based on traffic, weather, and time of day.

What restaurants, shops, or attractions are within walking distance of the Ivy Hotel?

Yes, the Ivy Hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to several attractions, shops, and restaurants, including:

Restaurants:

  • The Capital Grille: Upscale, well-known steakhouse located practically around the corner.
  • Beatrix: Popular American cafe serving healthy fare and excellent coffee.
  • The Purple Pig: Highly-rated, award-winning Mediterranean restaurant known for tapas.
  • Volare: Cozy, authentic Italian dining just blocks away.

Shopping:

  • The Magnificent Mile: Only a block and a half away from the hotel, offering massive flagship stores.
  • The Shops at North Bridge: A multi-level indoor mall featuring Nordstrom and dozens of retailers.
  • Water Tower Place: Features Macy's, the Harry Potter Store, and various specialty boutiques.
  • 900 North Michigan Shops: An upscale mall anchored by Bloomingdale's.

Attractions:

  • Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA): A premier destination for modern art and design, just a 5- to 7-minute walk north.
  • Millennium Park: Roughly a 15-minute walk south to see The Bean (Cloud Gate) and lush green spaces.
  • Navy Pier: Around a 15-minute stroll east along the river/lakefront for rides, dining, and lake cruises.
  • Historic Water Tower & Pumping Station: A quick 5-minute walk up Michigan Avenue, housing the City Gallery
Are there any family-friendly activities nearby the Ivy Hotel?

Yes, the Ivy Hotel is conveniently located near many of Chicago’s favorite family-friendly attractions, including:

  • Navy Pier (0.8 miles away) - Approximately a 5-minute drive
  • Chicago Children’s Museum (0.8 miles away) - Approximately a 5-minute drive
  • Millennium Park (0.9 miles away) - Approximately a 6-minute drive
  • Maggie Daley Park (1.1 miles away) - Approximately a 7-minute drive
  • Chicago Riverwalk (0.6 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute walk
  • Lakefront / Lake Michigan Trail (0.6 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute walk
  • Field Museum (2.3 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute drive
  • Shedd Aquarium (2.4 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute drive
  • Lincoln Park Zoo (2.6 miles away) - Approximately a 12-minute drive
Is the Ivy Hotel located in a quiet area, or in a more active neighborhood?

We are located in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood, an active and walkable downtown borough near the Magnificent Mile, popular restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and lakefront attractions. While the surrounding neighborhood offers easy access to the energy of the city, the hotel provides a more intimate boutique atmosphere for guests to unwind after a day of exploring.