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
"Hotel was clean, staff friendly. Old hotel that is being improved. Our room was small but otherwise good for our purposes. Good spot that launch our adventure!"
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
The Chicago Hotel Collection - Magnificent Mile
"What an amazing place! The staff was so welcoming when we first arrived and so helpful - especially Raymond at the front desk! The location is perfect, we could walk everywhere. And the rooftop bar was great, at night if we felt like staying in we could just go upstairs and have a drink and relax. ..."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
"This hotel was excellent, room had everything you needed, good size and quiet at night. Breakfast was amazing with so much choice. The staff were all lovely. The location for exploring Chicago was really good, never felt far from anything. Enjoyed the roof top bar. All in all an excellent stay and ..."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago
"Beautiful hotel! I found it very challenging to spend cash on site. Would have been nice to know ahead of time that this was a cash free hotel only. Minor inconvenience having to run back to the room to retrieve a cc."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Freehand Chicago
"No toilet paper. Stained curtains. But bed was ok."
Reviewed on 2 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.
