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Flights to Chicago: The ultimate Windy City getaway
From its jaw-dropping skyline to its deep-dish pizza, the Windy City of Chicago has something for everyone. If you're planning a family holiday here, start your adventure at Millennium Park, where you can snap a selfie with The Bean. Don't forget to head to the top of the Willis Tower for city views. Are you a history enthusiast? Check out the Art Institute of Chicago or dive into history at the Field Museum. When you need to unwind, take a walk along the Lakefront Trail or go on a river cruise through Chicago's famous architecture.
Chicago promises an exciting city break with Midwestern charm. And the best part? You can find money-saving deals for Chicago hotels and flights.
Chicago at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 9 hours 5 minutes
Main airport: Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Population: 9 million
Language: English
Currency: US dollar
Time zone: Central Standard Time (GMT-6)
Flights to Chicago from the UK
Get direct flights to Chicago from the UK, landing at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in around nine hours. You can fly from London Heathrow (LHR), Manchester (MAN) and Edinburgh (EDI) with major airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and American Airlines. If you are looking for a budget-friendly deal, keep an eye on Norse Atlantic Airways and JetBlue, which often have cheaper fares.
Once you land, you're just 17 miles from downtown Chicago. You can take the CTA Blue Line Train, which is the most budget-friendly option and takes 45 minutes to get downtown. Alternatively, use the airport shuttle or take a taxi, which takes from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Getting around Chicago is convenient, and you can find affordable transport options. For instance, CTA 'L' trains and buses are cheap and convenient, and you can use a Ventra Card to get unlimited rides. For short distances, use Uber or ride-sharing apps, which offer services throughout the city.
When is the best time for Chicago holidays?
Chicago is amazing year-round, so you can visit at any time, depending on the type of holiday you want. In summer, Chicago is buzzing with life. Temperatures range around 25°C to 30°C, which is perfect for boat tours on the Chicago River or beach days at Lake Michigan. Festivals like Lollapalooza and Taste of Chicago make it extra exciting. Just expect bigger crowds and higher prices at the best hotels in Chicago.
Autumn in Chicago is stunning. The crisp air and autumn foliage in Millennium Park make it a breathtaking getaway for couples. You can go on deep-dish pizza dates, visit jazz clubs and enjoy rooftop cocktails. If you love sports, you can catch the Chicago Bears, Bulls or Blackhawks in action. Just like autumn, spring has fewer tourists and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the St Patrick's Day parade and Chicago's many museums.
Do you love Christmas markets, ice skating and twinkling lights? Chicago in winter is beautiful. The Christkindlmarket and ice skating at Millennium Park make the city a charming winter getaway. The best prices for hotels in Chicago can be found in January and February.
Fun things to do in Chicago
Take an architecture cruise on the Chicago River
Chicago is famous for its jaw-dropping skyline, and the best way to see it? On a boat! Hop on an architecture cruise and glide down the Chicago River, passing skyscrapers like the Willis Tower and the Wrigley Building. The guides are super fun, dropping cool facts about the city's design and history. You can go by day for clear views or at sunset for dreamy golden-hour vibes.
Stuff your face with deep-dish pizza
If you visit Chicago and don't eat deep-dish pizza, did you even go? This cheesy, sauce-covered, thick-crust masterpiece is a meal and an experience. Head to Lou Malnati's, Giordano's or Pequod's for the ultimate slice. If you want to go all in, take a pizza tour and try different flavours around the city.
Discover Millennium Park
You can't visit Chicago without stopping by Millennium Park, home to The Bean (aka Cloud Gate). It's the city's famous selfie spot. This giant, shiny bean-shaped sculpture reflects the skyline, making it one of the coolest Insta-worthy spots ever. But Millennium Park isn't just about The Bean; stroll through the Lurie Garden, catch a free concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion or visit in winter for ice skating with a killer city backdrop.
Get a thrill at Skydeck Chicago
Have you ever wanted to stand on air? At Skydeck Chicago, you can do just that! It offers breathtaking views of the city from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower. You can even see four US states on a clear day. But the real thrill? The Ledge is a balcony made of glass that extends from the building, making you feel like you're floating above the city.
FAQs about Chicago holidays
Q: Is Chicago a good place to spend Christmas?
A: Yes. Christmas in Chicago is pure magic, with twinkling lights, festive markets and snowy streets. The Christkindlmarket is a must for mulled wine and holiday treats, while Millennium Park offers ice skating with stunning skyline views. Stroll down the Magnificent Mile, all decked out in holiday lights, or see the zoo lit up for ZooLights at Lincoln Park.
Q: Is Chicago a cheap place to visit?
A: Chicago can be affordable, but it depends on how you travel! Flights and hotels can be pricey, especially in summer and during major events, but budget travellers can find great deals in off-peak months. Public transport is cheap, and there are tons of free attractions like the Riverwalk and Lincoln Park Zoo.
Q: How many days in Chicago is enough?
A: Three to four days is perfect for exploring Chicago's highlights. Spend a day visiting Millennium Park, The Bean and the Art Institute, then take an architecture river cruise. On day two, visit the Skydeck Chicago and Navy Pier with deep-dish pizza for lunch. Add a third day for a visit to the Field Museum or Shedd Aquarium, and go for an evening stroll along the Lakefront Trail.
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