April Spring Specials

Traveling this summer? Don't fret about luggage or liquids. With our Chicago.com's guidebook, you'll know exactly what to pack and we won't make you take your shoes off!

If you live in the city or 'burbs already, explore your own backyard.

Where Should I Stay?

Only one downtown Chicago hotel combines classic architecture, luxury, and a touch of rock and roll: The Hard Rock Hotel Chicago. Located just steps from The Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, The Art Institute plus Chicago's best shopping, dining, music and theater, the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago is perfect for your weekend getaway. Take advantage of our special Chicago.com offer today.

Pack Your Plastic

Some things really are magnificent. In the spring, the Magnificent Mile, a wide stretch of North Michigan, blooms with color as thousands of tulips decorate the famous avenue. Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Saks glimmer with spring fashions and spring sales. Restaurants offer raucous family fun or a romantic table for two. If you haven't maxed out your spending limit, take the Blue Line to Division Street to continue shopping in funky Bucktown.

What Should I See? Bring Your Camcorder (and love of heights)

If you want to see the city's spectacular skyscrapers, you must go to the top. Literally. The John Hancock Center and The Sears Tower simply rise to the occasion. Glimpse at Chicago's incredible architecture from the 94th floor of the Hancock spanning 80 miles. At 1,450 feet and 110 stories high, it's hard to miss the Sears Tower-the tallest building in North America and the third tallest building in the world. No Stairmaster required; there's a super fast elevator to take you up, up, up.

Bring Your Paintbrush

From Seurat's explosion of miniature dots on A Sunday on La Grande Jatte, to Wood's pitchfork-holding farmer in American Gothic, the Art Institute of Chicago contains spectacular works.

Bring Love, for Sue

67 million years ago she weighed 7 tons. Luckily, you can fast-forward time and see Sue, the world's largest Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton at the Field Museum. Don't miss the Evolving Planet exhibit for an awe-inspiring journey through 4 billion years of life on Earth.

Bring Your Snorkel

Want to get face to fins with sharks and whales? See dolphins leap and splash? Explore corals and eels inside a reef? If so, visit hundreds of species of fishes, lizards, and turtles at the Shedd. Aquarium No wetsuit required.