Near West Side Travel Guide
Chicago
Visit Near West Side
Popular places to visit
United Center
Catch an event at United Center during your trip to Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's lakeside or experience its fascinating museums.
University of Illinois Chicago
Enjoy the student vibe at University of Illinois Chicago during your visit to Chicago. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.
Mary Bartelme Park
After visiting Mary Bartelme Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Chicago. Experience the fascinating museums and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.
Wrigley Field
Tour the iconic grounds and catch a game March through September at Chicago’s beloved baseball stadium.
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.
Naval Base Great Lakes
After visiting Naval Base Great Lakes, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in North Chicago. Wander the lakeside in this family-friendly area.
Things to do
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket
City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise
Top hotels in Near West Side
The Emily Hotel
Great hotel and close to our dinner reservation.
Reviewed on 23 Mar 2026
Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop by IHG
First time in Chicago after a long time, will definitely come back to this hotel when I come back
Reviewed on 23 Mar 2026
Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago - Downtown by IHG
Good room all around. Was kept warm or cool depending on the preference at the time. Very spacious and nice location. Wish that the room had a microwave, but everything else was solid aside from that. Staff was very friendly and always helpful.
Reviewed on 23 Mar 2026
Congress Plaza Hotel
After you get past the look of the hotel and embrace the history, you will appreciate staying here. The breakfast food from the only restaurant open was terrible but the food from the bar was better. The front desk employees left something to be desired but the security went above and beyond.
Reviewed on 24 Mar 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
Breakfast was so good!! Very friendly staff !!! Clean !!
Reviewed on 24 Mar 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North
This was our first booked trip as a family of 4 and our stay was excellent. Highlight of the stay was the breakfast. We wanted to get to the pool, but it got shut down early Friday night due to an accident. Hotel is in a great spot for walking around and accessing the majority of downtown Chicago. ...
Reviewed on 24 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Near West Side
West Loop
Consider a visit to Old St Patrick’s Church and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in West Loop. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Racine Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center.
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).
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.
River North
Known for its fantastic nightlife, stunning river views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in River North. Top attractions like Merchandise Mart and Bally's Casino Chicago are major draws. Catch the metro at Merchandise Mart Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
West Town
Noted for its live music and theatres, there's plenty to explore in West Town. Top attractions like The Salt Shed and Milwaukee Avenue are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Division Station or Damen Station to see more of the city.
