Essex
Chicago
Popular places to visit
Wrigley Field
Chicago’s world-renowned baseball ground, Wrigley Field is an iconic stadium where you can learn about the all-American sport and even catch a game.
Michigan Avenue
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Navy Pier
A waterfront entertainment strip with fun diversions for both young and old, with shops, restaurants and even a Ferris wheel.
McCormick Place
Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Millennium Park
One of Chicago’s main focal points, where locals and visitors flock to see the striking art, architecture and landscape on show.
Things to do
Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket
Top hotels in Essex
Congress Plaza Hotel
Overall we enjoy this hotel, some fixtures in the bathroom were missing. But on an important note, we were woken up by the front desk and by security at 3 AM regarding a noise and an assault above our room.
Reviewed on 24 Feb, 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
Everything was clean. What stood out is the modern technology. It took a second to figure out certain things like the shower and the lights but it was refreshing and new. We loved everything about our experience. We’ll be coming back for the Rooftop restaurant.
Reviewed on 24 Feb, 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North
Great location, room was spacious, checkin fast and seemless, breakfast was top notch!! By far one of the best we have had in our travels
Reviewed on 24 Feb, 2026
Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites
Systems were down upon arrival without any warning. Did not get the requested room.
Reviewed on 24 Feb, 2026
Eurostars Magnificent Mile
Having my valet service was very helpful for me and my family kinda pricey but worth it
Reviewed on 24 Feb, 2026
Hilton Chicago
Staff was great and room was clean
Reviewed on 24 Feb, 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Essex
Near South Side
Travellers choose Near South Side for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Cermak-McCormick Place Station or Roosevelt Station and check out top sights like Soldier Field.
South Loop
Soldier Field and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in South Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Roosevelt Station or Cermak-McCormick Place Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops.
Theatre District
While you're in Theatre District, take in top sights like Michigan Avenue or State Street, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Washington Station or Monroe Station (Blue Line).
Near West Side
Live music, theatres and shopping highlight some notable features of Near West Side. Make a stop by United Center or Credit Union 1 Arena while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Polk Station (Pink Line) or Racine Station to get around town.
The Loop
Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in The Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Washington Station or Lake Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.
Downtown Chicago
Known for its fascinating museums, stunning river views and gorgeous architecture, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Chicago. Top attractions like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are major draws. Catch the metro at State Station or Clark-Lake Station to see more of the city.
