The best of Chicago — finding cheap hotel deals and travel deals

Chicago goes by many names: Second City, the Windy City and the jewel of the American heartland. But you can make it “bargain city” if you book your Chicago hotel through the AARP® Travel Center powered by Expedia®. AARP members can get Expedia’s lowest rate on Chicago hotels or your AARP hotel discount, whichever is better. Plus, when you book your hotel, air and car rental together, you’ll save even more.

Money-saving deals and AARP discounts on downtown Chicago hotels

Chicago is a true international city with world-class museums, spectacular architecture, beautiful parks, sensational restaurants, fantastic shopping and amazing hotel deals around every corner. When it comes to lodging options in Chicago, travelers have a choice — from luxury hotels to mid-range hotels to cheap hotels. The city is a major business hub and convention destination, which means downtown Chicago hotels can be expensive during the week — especially in the city’s financial district also known as the Loop. To find cheap Chicago hotel deals, book weekends or stay in outlying neighborhoods during the week. And always remember to book your downtown Chicago hotel at the AARP Travel Center to get the best rates.

Chicago shopping — hotels on The Magnificent Mile

Ready to shop Chicago style? Then you must visit North Michigan Avenue, known to most locals and tourists as The Magnificent Mile. Located just north of the Loop, The Magnificent Mile is home to many of Chicago’s finest hotels, shops, galleries and restaurants. While most hotels along or near Michigan Avenue can be pricey, you can find cheap hotels in the area. To find the best hotels deal near The Magnificent Mile, visit the AARP Travel Center.

Must see Chicago — Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Wrigley Field

Chicago is a vibrant city that offers a wide array of year-round activities. Ride the 150-foot Ferris wheel at the world-famous Navy Pier. Enjoy an outdoor concert at Millennium Park. Check out the breathtaking views at Skydeck Chicago, located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower. Visit more than 1,000 mammals, reptiles and birds at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Take in a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field or a Chicago Bears game at Soldier Field. Or soak up some rays at one of Chicago’s many beaches, located on the shores of Lake Michigan (weather permitting, of course). When you’re ready to experience the best Chicago has to offer, be sure to book your tours and activities through the AARP® Travel Center powered by Expedia®.

Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Art Institute of Chicago

If you’re a museum lover then you’ll love Chicago. The city boasts a number of first-class museums, including three institutions within Chicago’s lakefront museum district. Visit Sue, the largest and most complete T. Rex skeleton in the world at the Field Museum. Discover the wonders of the oceans at the Shedd Aquarium, with its 22,000 aquatic species. Or visit one of two full-size planetarium theaters at the Adler Planetarium. Conveniently located between Millennium Park and Grant Park, the Art Institute of Chicago houses the largest collection of Impressionist and Postimpressionist works outside of the Louvre.

Dining and nightlife — Chicago theaters, Second City and restaurants

Enjoy a Broadway-style outing at one of the grand theaters in Chicago’s Downtown Theater District. Experience a cutting-edge play from Chicago’s famous Steppenwolf Theater Company. Or enjoy a laugh at The Second City, with its improv and sketch comedy. Hungry for more? Enjoy one of the many culinary gems located in neighborhoods across the city. Italian. Latin. Greek. Indian. German. In Chicago, your restaurant options are endless. And you can’t visit the Windy City without trying two of the city’s classics: Chicago-style hot dogs and the city’s famous deep-dish pizza.

Chicago vacation packages — book together and save

Looking for a great deal on a Chicago vacation? Book your hotel, air and car rental together at the AARP Travel Center. You can save up to $500 when you bundle your Chicago vacation. Enjoy cheap hotels, affordable airfare and car rental discounts. It’s the east way to plan your Chicago vacation.