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Whether you need to know local public holidays or highlights through the seasons, we hope you will find the facts gathered below useful tools for your travel planning. Please feel free to contact us if we can assist you further.

General information

The first settlers built beside Lake Michigan about 150 years ago, and the inhabitants rebuilt the city after the Great Fire of 1871. Today, three of the world's six largest buildings sway in the skyline of the "Windy City".

Time zone

GMT -6 hours
Central Standard Time

Language(s) spoken

English is the primary language.

Electrical system

Local voltage is 110 to 120 volts AC. Adapters available; please request through the Concierge.

Shopping hours

Monday to Saturday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Sunday 12:00 noon to 6:00 pm

Working hours

Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

Time and distance to city centre

10 minutes/1.5 miles/2 kilometres

Time and distance to shopping

Oak Street is two blocks from the Hotel. The Magnificent Mile is street level of the Hotel.

Time and distance to financial district

10 minutes/2 miles/3 kilometres

View in–depth travel advice from Frommers.com

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Seasonal highlights

Winter

Michigan Avenue Festival of Lights, which features an ice sculpture display along the Magnificent Mile.

Summer

Fireworks at Navy Pier every Wednesday and Saturday night, The Air and Water Show, Taste of Chicago, Venetian Night, Country Music Festival, Jazz Festival, Blues Festival and various neighbourhood art fairs.

Fall

Thanksgiving Day Parade on State Street.