Destination Guide
Set in the heart of the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood in downtown Chicago, the Waldorf Astoria Chicago is surrounded by the famed Oak Street boutiques, gourmet dining, and nightlife.
Chicago is home to over 2.6 million residents. Each neighborhood is bursting with its own unique culture, cuisine, architecture and landmarks. Explore the city's diverse food scene, performing arts & live music, serene green spaces and lakefront paths.
Concierge
Let us show you around...
Deep dish or steak? Broadway musical or stand-up comedy show? Our Concierge Ambassadors know just the right place, especially when it comes to last minute reservations. Allow us to enhance your Chicago experience, whether that's booking theatre tickets, seeking out vegan restaurants, recommending the city's top walking tours or sharing the neighborhood's best kept secrets.
Let us point you in the right direction. Contact our Concierge Ambassadors by calling 312-646-1300 or send us a message.
Art & Culture
Chicago is a hub for high-end culture and the performing arts, with historical landmarks, theatres, galleries and museums in every direction. Explore River North Art Galleries, which showcases work from local and international artists. The Art Institute of Chicago or the Shedd Aquarium are both ideal for a day of sightseeing, while the Newberry Library offers a taste of historic Chicago. Broadway in Chicago produces live theatre productions, while back-of-house tours reveal what goes on behind the scenes.
Architecture & Landmarks
Famed for its seminal architecture, Chicago is home to Millennium Park and Cloud Gate – affectionately called 'The Bean' by locals. Take an Architectural Boat Tour along the Chicago River or stroll through the streets of downtown and discover the famed mansions on Lake Shore Drive, views from John Hancock Observatory and more. With a unique mix of ancient buildings and ultra-modern outdoor sculptures, Chicago is a destination where the city itself is a work of art.
Sports
The historic Wrigley Field provides a unique and nostalgic sporting experience in one of baseball’s original parks. Each Friday, the northside is transformed in energetic support of their lovable and storied Chicago Cubs. If you need more speed, the ascendant Chicago Blackhawks and the legendary Chicago Bulls play host in the modern-day madhouse, the United Center. Experience the passion and pride of a real die-hard sports town in the house that Jordan built.
Food & Nightlife
Whether it's deep dish pizza, michelin-starred gourmet dining or the famed "Chicago Dog", Chicago is bursting with diverse dining options.
After-hours, Chicago is as electric as it is during the day. A multitude of bars, clubs and comedy venues offer thrills into the wee hours of the morning. Explore hand-crafted cocktails, local breweries and dive bars.
Shopping
Shopping in Chicago means the Magnificent Mile. Midwest shopping at its finest, The Mag Mile is brimming with luxury boutiques and designer stores. Huge shopping malls, specialty stores, department stores and trendy shops sell jewelry, clothes, antiques, gifts and much more. Michigan Avenue and Oak Street are minutes from Waldorf Astoria Chicago too, making the hotel a shopper's paradise.
Outdoors
The city's motto is "Urbs in Horto" – "City in a Garden" – meaning there are plenty of green spaces and parks for some outdoor fun. Millennium Park, Printers' Row Park, Chicago's Women's Park & Gardens, and Coliseum Park are just a few of the green spaces spread throughout the city – perfect for people-watching, picnics, biking, skating and walks. In the summer, make your way to Northerly Island, home to a nature reserve, camping facilities and fishing spots.