Where to stay…in town for class at Schwab Rehab Hospital

Question

Hi there! My husband and I will be coming to Chicago in early November for a class at Schwab Rehab Hospital (next to Douglass Park). Looking at hotels/accommodations I am not seeing a lot right there and assuming this neighborhood is not a typical tourist destination.

This will be our first time in Chicago and we hope to spend an extra day or two before/after the class to check out the city.

I am curious what areas nearby may be a good place for us to consider staying that would be relatively close to our class, but also reasonable for us to get out and explore the city a little.

Is public transit safe/easy to navigate? We love to walk, but other posts on here make me a bit nervous about that considering we don’t know the area at all.

Any suggestions are very welcome - thank you in advance! 🙂

Answer

It's great that you're coming to Chicago for a class at Schwab Rehab Hospital! While the area around Schwab Rehab and Douglass Park isn't typically a major tourist destination, there are still several good options for accommodations nearby, and Chicago's public transit system will make it easy to get around and explore the city. Here’s some advice and suggestions on where to stay and how to navigate the city while you’re in town:

1. Best Areas to Stay Near Schwab Rehab Hospital:

Although Douglass Park is a bit off the beaten path for tourists, there are several neighborhoods nearby that offer easy access to Schwab Rehab and also provide good options for exploring the city. Some of the best areas for accommodations that are both close to your class and convenient for sightseeing are:

West Loop: The West Loop is an up-and-coming neighborhood that’s just a short drive or public transit ride from Schwab Rehab. It's known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and easy access to downtown Chicago. Staying here would put you in a vibrant area with plenty of things to see and do. It’s also close to public transit options, so getting around the city will be easy.
Near South Loop: Another great option is staying in the South Loop. It’s a slightly more residential area but still very close to major attractions like the Field Museum, Millennium Park, and the Shedd Aquarium. Public transit options from here can easily get you to Schwab Rehab or downtown Chicago.
Fulton Market: Fulton Market is a lively neighborhood with a growing number of boutique hotels and restaurants. It's close to the West Loop, making it easy to get to Schwab Rehab, and it offers more upscale dining and shopping options. It’s also a great area to walk around and explore in your free time.
Logan Square: If you're open to a more laid-back, artsy vibe, Logan Square is a great option. It's about 20 minutes by public transit to Schwab Rehab and offers a mix of local eateries, parks, and cool boutiques. It’s a little further from downtown but a great option for a more relaxed stay.

2. Staying Downtown:

If you prefer being closer to major tourist attractions, you could also stay downtown and commute to Schwab Rehab using public transit. While this would require a longer commute (around 20-30 minutes by bus or “L” train), downtown Chicago offers plenty of hotels with easy access to shopping, dining, museums, and theaters. Some good areas to consider are:

Loop: The Loop is downtown’s central business district, with easy access to many of the city's iconic attractions like the Art Institute, Millennium Park, and the Willis Tower Skydeck. It’s well-connected to public transit, so you can get to Schwab Rehab without too much hassle.
River North: Known for its nightlife and great restaurant scene, River North is a lively neighborhood that's close to the Magnificent Mile and also accessible to public transit routes heading towards the West Side. It’s a bit pricier, but it's perfect if you want to be close to all the action in the city.

3. Public Transit in Chicago:

Chicago's public transit system, including the “L” (elevated train) and buses, is generally safe and easy to navigate. The system has several lines that run through the city and connect most major neighborhoods, making it simple to get from your hotel to Schwab Rehab or downtown attractions.

The “L” Train: The “L” is an affordable and reliable way to travel around Chicago. The Blue Line runs from the O'Hare airport through the Loop and to the West Side, including near the area of Schwab Rehab. It’s safe, though it can get crowded during rush hours. If you stay in the West Loop or South Loop, you'll be very close to several “L” stations.
Buses: Chicago’s bus system is extensive and can take you to nearly every neighborhood, including Douglass Park and Schwab Rehab. Bus routes like the #20 Madison or #9 Ashland will get you to the hospital area from various parts of the city.
Safety and Convenience: While most of Chicago's public transit is safe, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Chicago has a well-maintained public transit network, and most areas with hotels and tourist attractions are well-served by public transit. If you're unsure, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

4. Walking Around Chicago:

If you love to walk, you’ll be happy to know that Chicago is a very walkable city, especially in neighborhoods like the Loop, West Loop, and South Loop. However, as you mentioned, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area. The West Loop, River North, and downtown areas are generally safe for walking, but it's always a good idea to stay in well-lit, busy areas at night.

5. Recommendations for Exploring the City:

Since you'll have some free time, there are plenty of fantastic things to see and do in Chicago:

Millennium Park: Home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (aka “The Bean”), Millennium Park is a must-see for any first-time visitor. It’s located in downtown Chicago and offers beautiful green space, art installations, and outdoor performances.
Art Institute of Chicago: Located near Millennium Park, the Art Institute is one of the top art museums in the country. It's perfect if you’re looking to spend a few hours exploring world-class art collections.
Willis Tower Skydeck: For a great view of the city, head to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower. It's a bit touristy, but the views are unforgettable.
Navy Pier: A bit further from Schwab Rehab, Navy Pier is a fun destination for families with attractions, restaurants, and a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of Lake Michigan.

In summary, for accommodations close to Schwab Rehab, the West Loop, South Loop, and Fulton Market are great areas to consider. Public transit is easy to navigate, and most major tourist attractions are just a short ride away. You can explore Chicago’s neighborhoods, enjoy local cuisine, and visit the city's top attractions in your free time. Enjoy your stay in Chicago!