Near South Side Travel Guide
Chicago
Visit Near South Side
Popular places to visit
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
McCormick Place
Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.
Shedd Aquarium
Make time in your itinerary to visit the sea life who live at Shedd Aquarium during your visit to Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's lakeside or experience its entertainment choices.
Field Museum of Natural History
Dinosaur bones, rare gems and real Egyptian mummies are among the displays at this family favorite.
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
Opportunities for fun, learning and wonder abound at this historic and state-of-the-art museum on the pretty shore of Lake Michigan.
Northerly Island Natural Area
Bird life, paved paths and a built-in music venue give one of Chicago’s newest green spaces much to offer to nature lovers, exercisers and music fans.
Things to do
Chicago CityPASS®: Experience 5 must-see attractions
City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise
Top hotels in Near South Side
Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago
"Still-attractive hotel despite being the older of the two hotels next to McCormick Place with excellent beds, adequate space, good facilities. It is a very good choice next to the convention centre given its location and cleanliness. The staff were very helpful."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Congress Plaza Hotel
"Well located yet aged facility. Bathrooms are small and frankly nasty. It served our purpose as a base for a 3-day stay in Chicago with errands to run in the nearby area."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
The Chicago Hotel Collection - Magnificent Mile
"Clean room"
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
"Great location and roof top bar!! The hotel is new and the decoration is beautiful!! Room was good and clean. The only thing I didn’t like was the bed … it was too soft. I hope they sdd boiled eggs as an option for breakfast"
Reviewed on 5 Jun 2026
Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago
"The property was well maintained, and the location was excellent. Kim and Liz provided outstanding customer service throughout my stay—they were professional, welcoming, and truly made a positive impact. They deserve recognition for their exceptional work. Unfortunately, my experience at the Red ..."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast
"The breakfast was excellent. Usually, you get cheap food and bad coffee, but EVERYTHING I tried was good. The room was clean, as was the bathroom. However, the shower was awful: not enough water pressure and no handheld shower. That was the worst part. I didn’t like the mattress, but that may be ..."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Near South Side
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.
Magnificent Mile
Are you interested in fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops? A visit to Magnificent Mile might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Michigan Avenue and Chicago Water Tower.
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.
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.
Lincoln Park
Known for its ample dining options and fantastic lake views, there's plenty to explore in Lincoln Park. You can visit top attractions like Lake Michigan and Lincoln Hall, and jump on the metro at Fullerton Station or Armitage Station to see more of the city.
