Hockey tournament

Question

Hi we are flying in for a tournament being held at Fifth Tbird Arena . We have never been to Chicago before so I would like to do some sightseeing but not sure of what availability we will have yet .

I’m wondering if staying near the rink is the best option or a couple of miles away near magnificent mile or the Loop . Not sure if they are the same. If anyone can chime in with hotel reccomedatons preferably a Marriott or an area to stay I would appreciate that .

I would also like food recommendations near the arena and any sights that are not to be missed . Thanks

Answer

It's exciting that you're coming to Chicago for a tournament! The Fifth Third Arena is located in the Near West Side, a few miles from the downtown core, so there are a few factors to consider when deciding where to stay. Here's what I would recommend based on your needs:

1. Staying Near the Arena:

There are a few hotels around the Fifth Third Arena area, but it's not a major tourist hub, so options may be more limited compared to staying closer to downtown.
If you’re attending the tournament for multiple days and plan to be at the rink a lot, staying near the arena might be more convenient. However, it's not as close to the main sightseeing attractions like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, or the Magnificent Mile.
Food options near the arena include some local eateries, but you may want to head downtown for more variety and a wider selection of restaurants.

2. Staying Near the Magnificent Mile or The Loop:

The Magnificent Mile and The Loop are considered the heart of Chicago, where most of the iconic attractions, shopping, and restaurants are located. These areas are just a short distance (about 10-15 minutes by car or public transportation) from the arena, making them a great choice for tourists looking to explore Chicago in addition to attending the tournament.
If you're only in town for a few days, staying in one of these central areas will give you more sightseeing opportunities in your downtime and make it easier to get around.
Public transportation (like the "L" trains) is convenient for getting between the arena and the Loop/Mag Mile area, so you don't have to worry too much about driving or parking.

Hotel Recommendations: If you’re interested in Marriott hotels, there are several good options in the Loop and Magnificent Mile areas:

Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile: Located just off Michigan Avenue, this is a great choice for proximity to shopping, restaurants, and major attractions.
JW Marriott Chicago: Located in the Loop, this hotel is central to many of Chicago's iconic sights and provides easy access to transportation.
Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel: Another solid Marriott option, located in the heart of the city with great access to the Magnificent Mile and Riverwalk.
Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Downtown/Loop: If you’re looking for something with more space, this offers suites with kitchenettes and is a great choice for longer stays.

Food Recommendations Near Fifth Third Arena: While the area near the arena is not as packed with dining options as downtown, there are still a few places to check out:

Portillo's: If you're in the mood for a classic Chicago-style hot dog or Italian beef sandwich, Portillo's is a Chicago institution, located not too far from the arena.
Haymarket Pub & Brewery: A great spot for casual dining with craft beers and pub food.
The Ogden: Located near the arena, this is a more upscale option for a nice dinner.

Must-See Sights in Chicago: Since you're in Chicago for a short time, make sure you don’t miss some of these iconic sights:

Millennium Park: Home to the famous Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), this park is a must-see for visitors and is located in the heart of downtown.
Navy Pier: A classic Chicago experience, featuring attractions, restaurants, and great views of Lake Michigan.
Art Institute of Chicago: One of the world’s best art museums, it's home to iconic works like Grant Wood’s *American Gothic* and Georges Seurat’s *A Sunday on La Grande Jatte*.
Willis Tower Skydeck: For stunning views of Chicago and the surrounding area, head to the Skydeck at Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower).
Riverwalk: A lovely spot for walking along the Chicago River, with plenty of places to sit, eat, or enjoy the city views.

Overall, staying near the Magnificent Mile or The Loop will give you more access to sightseeing, food, and fun during your downtime. The arena is easily accessible by car or public transit, so you can comfortably enjoy the best of both worlds: proximity to the rink and easy access to Chicago’s famous attractions!

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