Chicago Staycation Guide

While many of us have had to change our vacation plans this year due to Covid-19, there is a bright side.  We happen to live in one of the greatest cities in the world.  People from all over come to the windy city to take in our beautiful lakefront, marvel at our architecture, and dine at amazing restaurants. So make your vacation plans local.  Below are some tips on how to plan a Chicago staycation! 

Guided Tours

One of the best ways to see the sites is through a guided tour.   There are walking tours and boat tours and food tours, oh my! These are all accessible (not to mention low impact on our planet) ways to discover hidden places, learn fascinating facts, and enjoy delicious food! Trust us, be a tourist in your own city and take a guided tour. 

Bike, Scooter and Vespa Rentals

Travel has a way of giving us new perspectives. It opens our eyes to different cultures and ways of life.  The way we travel can have as much of an impact on how we see things. Change out of your travel routines and creature comforts by renting a bike, scooter, or vespa to get around town. Scooters will be back in Chicago as of July 1st. Divvy Bikes are just as easy to rent and ride – plenty around the city pick up or dock at your leisure. Or cruise in style by renting a Vespa discover the city in a new way!  

Outdoor Recreation

You don’t need to go very far to enjoy nature.  We have a beautiful lakefront, neighborhood parks, and the elevated Bloomington Trail.  While our beaches are still closed, you can enjoy our waters by chartering a pantoon or yacht to cruise Lake Michigan (or more importantly, hang out in the playpen!)  Kayak rentals are also a fun way to enjoy water sports while exploring the Chicago River.

If hiking is more your speed, there are great trails just outside of Chicago.  Like the gorgeous Waterfall Glen known for its Rocky Glen waterfall, Sawmill Creek bluff overlook, and extensive trails. And The North Branch Trail System that boasts 20 miles of prime biking trails.  Or try fishing at Cricket Creek DuPage County Forest Preserve.  You can fish for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish and bluegill at the 9-acre Green Lake, 3-acre Stonewort Pond or 5-acre Riverbend Pond.

Hotel Staycation

But the best way to feel like you’re on vacation, is to book a stay at a local hotel, like the Wicker Park Inn. Doing so makes you feel like you’re traveling– getting out of the confines of your home (turned workspace, kids recreation room, restaurant, and science lab). You get to stay and explore an amazing neighborhood, check out local restaurants and shops, and live like a local!

The Wicker Park Inn has elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities, private bathroom, and individual heating and cooling system.  Located just off Milwaukee Ave, you’ll be close to all the action while safe from the onslaught of busy streets. And you can enjoy breakfast in bed, in-room massage, or private yoga session! These are just some of the staycation packages we are now offering our guests, which will you discover?

In Chicago, we look forward to summer.  We live for day games at Wrigley Field, neighborhood festivals, outdoor concerts, and days at the beach. While this year may be different, we can still enjoy our lovely city.  And what better way than to book a Staycation at the Wicker Park Inn.