Stay by O’Hare to Visit Downtown?

Question

Thinking about a three day trip in May with my teenage kids and we will be driving in from the west. Plans would be to do the typical tourist stuff like Navy Pier, Mag Mile, etc. Due to parking fees in downtown being exorbitant and not being crazy about driving in traffic, I was thinking of getting a hotel in Rosemount and taking the blue line to the city each day. I found a hotel that charges $20 a day. From what I remember, it’s about a 45 minute ride one way.

Does this seem like a reasonable plan?

Answer

Yes, your plan to stay near O'Hare and take the Blue Line into downtown Chicago each day is a reasonable and smart one! Many visitors to Chicago use this approach to avoid the hassle and high cost of parking in the downtown area. Here's why your plan makes sense:

1. Hotel in Rosemont (O'Hare area): Staying in the Rosemont area near O'Hare is a good option. The area has many hotels with competitive rates, and the location offers easy access to the Blue Line, which will take you directly into downtown. The Blue Line ride from Rosemont to downtown typically takes around 45 minutes one way, depending on time of day and any delays, which is manageable for a day of sightseeing. The $20/day parking fee is quite reasonable compared to the often $40+ rates for parking in downtown Chicago hotels.

2. Blue Line to Downtown: The Blue Line is a very convenient option for getting into the city. It’s fast, reliable, and it runs frequently, making it an ideal choice for tourists who don’t want to deal with downtown traffic. The Blue Line takes you to the Loop, where you can easily access popular tourist spots like Navy Pier, Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

3. Traffic and Parking in Downtown: You’re correct that parking in downtown Chicago can be expensive and finding parking can be a challenge. Traffic can also be quite heavy, especially during the busy tourist season in May. By using public transportation, you avoid these issues and save money. Public transit in Chicago is a great way to explore the city without the stress of driving or finding parking.

4. Things to Consider:

Depending on how early you plan to get to the city, there might be a bit of a wait to board the train during peak times, but this is usually manageable.
If you’re planning to return to the hotel late at night, the Blue Line operates 24/7, but it can be less crowded during late hours, so be prepared for that.
Rosemont also has some attractions itself, like the Fashion Outlets of Chicago and some good restaurants, in case you want to explore the area during your downtime.

5. Alternative Option: Renting a Car: If you do decide to rent a car while staying in the Rosemont area, it could be more convenient for certain trips outside the city center, but I would recommend sticking to public transit for the downtown portion of your trip, as parking fees and driving stress can be a burden.

Overall, your plan to stay in Rosemont, take the Blue Line into downtown, and save on parking sounds like a practical and cost-effective approach. Enjoy your trip to Chicago!