Hotels in East Chicago

Harboring Serenity: Discover East Chicago's Coastal Charms

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, East Chicago, Indiana, is a hidden gem for beach lovers and marina enthusiasts. This vibrant city offers picturesque waterfront views, inviting sandy beaches, and a plethora of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can explore the scenic parks, enjoy leisurely strolls along the marina, or immerse themselves in local culture at nearby art installations. With its unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty, East Chicago is a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway with a touch of adventure. For the best hotel rates in East Chicago and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in East Chicago

Some of the best places to stay in East Chicago are Magnificent Mile, The Loop and River North. East Chicago, Indiana, is a great base for exploring nearby Chicago’s highlights. The Magnificent Mile offers upscale shopping and vibrant dining, while The Loop boasts iconic architecture and cultural attractions. River North is known for its lively arts scene and nightlife. For accommodations, you'll find a variety of hotels featuring premium amenities, spacious suites, and convenient access to attractions. First-time visitors will particularly enjoy The Loop for its central location and abundance of sights. Here are some of the best hotels in East Chicago that our travelers love:

1. Magnificent MileOpens in a new window: Renowned for its vibrant energy, the Magnificent Mile is a shopper's paradise featuring high-end boutiques, restaurants, and breathtaking architecture. This area is perfect for families and adventures alike, with nearby attractions like Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. For a luxurious stay, consider Park Hyatt ChicagoOpens in a new window, which caters to business and family travelers with its adventure sports options and family-friendly amenities. Another excellent option is The Ritz-Carlton, ChicagoOpens in a new window, ideal for romantic getaways, offering spa services and a central location. Lastly, The Peninsula ChicagoOpens in a new window combines business facilities with child-friendly services, making it a versatile choice for various travelers.
2. The LoopOpens in a new window: As Chicago's bustling business district, The Loop offers a blend of culture, dining, and iconic landmarks like Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park. It's perfect for families and city enthusiasts. The Langham, ChicagoOpens in a new window stands out with its comprehensive business amenities and family-friendly features, including an arcade game room. Alternatively, Trump International Hotel & Tower ChicagoOpens in a new window offers a boutique experience with unique decor and childcare services. For a touch of luxury, theWit Chicago, a Hilton HotelOpens in a new window provides adventure sports and upscale amenities while remaining accessible for both business and leisure travelers.
3. River NorthOpens in a new window: Known for its vibrant art scene and nightlife, River North is a hub for creativity and excitement, with easy access to attractions like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier. This area is perfect for families and business travelers. Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent MileOpens in a new window features a charming Beaux-Arts design and amenities tailored for business needs. For pet owners, Level Chicago - River NorthOpens in a new window welcomes dogs and cats, providing a convenient city-center location. Lastly, The Godfrey Hotel ChicagoOpens in a new window is perfect for luxury shoppers, offering a sophisticated atmosphere along with excellent business facilities.

Things to do in East Chicago for first time

Three days in East Chicago offers a delightful mix of sandy beaches and serene marinas, perfect for boating and relaxing by the water. Enjoy the natural landscapes while engaging in outdoor activities, and experience the area's vibrant entertainment scene, including thrilling casino adventures. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to East Chicago:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the iconic Michigan Avenue, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk down the Magnificent Mile, where you can explore boutique shops and grab a coffee. Next, head to the picturesque Chicago Riverwalk, where you can enjoy scenic views of the river and the city skyline. Consider stopping for a bite at one of the riverside eateries. Wrap up your day at Millennium Park, where you can admire the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, known as The Bean, and enjoy the park's beautiful gardens and art installations.
• Day 2: Start your day at the bustling Navy Pier, where you can ride the Ferris wheel for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Afterward, make your way to the Willis Tower, where the Skydeck offers a thrilling perspective of the city from above. Don’t miss the glass ledge for an unforgettable photo op! End your day at the stunning Buckingham Fountain, where you can admire the choreographed water displays and relax in the surrounding park.
• Day 3: Kick off your day with a visit to Grant Park, often referred to as Chicago's front yard, where you can stroll through its beautiful gardens and enjoy the artwork. Next, head to Jeorse Park Beach, a perfect spot for some relaxation by the lake or a quick swim. Conclude your day at Buffington Harbor, where you can take a scenic walk along the waterfront and watch the boats sail by, providing a serene end to your exploration of East Chicago.

5 tips to find a great East Chicago hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit East Chicago is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're traveling from abroad, aim to book your flight at least 2 months in advance for better deals. A stay of at least 2-3 days is perfect for experiencing the area's main attractions, such as the beach and marina, which offer great value for money. This destination is ideal for those on a budget looking to make the most of their trip.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to East Chicago can offer exciting savings for spontaneous travelers. To explore options on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you're more likely to find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, helping you seize opportunities to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, if you can be flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in East Chicago.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in East Chicago is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars and public transit to explore the area while saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in East Chicago and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in East Chicago

Here are a few popular dishes in East Chicago, Indiana, United States of America:

• Tacos: In East Chicago, tacos are a vibrant representation of local flavors, often filled with marinated meats like carnitas, carne asada, or al pastor. These handheld delights showcase fresh ingredients, with toppings like cilantro, onions, and homemade salsas. You can find them in casual taquerias, where the atmosphere is lively and communal, perfect for a spontaneous meal with friends.
• Deep Dish Pizza: A Chicago classic, deep dish pizza is a must-try. This hearty dish features a thick buttery crust layered with gooey cheese, a generous amount of toppings, and a rich tomato sauce on top. Enjoying a slice in a local pizzeria is not just about the food; it’s an experience that brings people together, often shared over lively conversations and laughter.

Best time to go to East Chicago

East Chicago experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.7°F (-3.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit East Chicago are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.