How to Feel Like a Local in 48 Hours: The CHC Neighborhood Immersion Guide

You don’t have to be born and raised in Chicago to experience the city like a true local. The key? Staying in the right neighborhood. With four distinct locations—Ambassador Gold Coast, River North, Wrigley, and Mag Mile—The Chicago Hotel Collection makes it easy to blend in, explore off the beaten path, and enjoy the city the way locals do.

Start in the Gold Coast, Ease into the Day

Begin your stay at The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast and ease into the neighborhood’s quiet elegance. Tree-lined streets like Astor and Schiller feel worlds away from the city’s hustle, with historic mansions and hidden courtyards around every corner.

Locals love to grab coffee from 3 Arts Club Café, tucked inside a stunning RH showroom—it’s a favorite for a reason. Take your drink to Washington Square Park for a peaceful moment or wander into the boutiques on Oak Street. This stretch of shopping isn’t about massive crowds or department stores. It’s about curated finds and a sense of discovery.

Get Creative in River North

Just a few blocks away, River North shifts the energy completely. Think art galleries, edgy design shops, and inventive dining. Skip the chains and find your way to local favorites like Ema for lunch—light Mediterranean dishes that locals swear by.

River North is also home to a vibrant gallery district. If you’re in the mood to explore, pop into independent spaces like Addington Gallery or Zolla/Lieberman to see what Chicago artists are up to. Or wander into places like Rotofugi, where design toys meet pop surrealism.

Cap off the afternoon with a cocktail in a space most tourists never find. The Drifter, hidden beneath Green Door Tavern, is a favorite speakeasy among locals—small, atmospheric, and ever-changing. Then grab dinner nearby at a spot like Sunda or GT Prime, where you’ll be surrounded by after-work regulars rather than camera-wielding tourists.

Trade the Loop for the Lakefront

When you move to our Mag Mile location, don’t get caught up in the flashy stores and crowded sidewalks. Chicagoans know the best part of this area is just a few blocks east: the lakefront.

Wander down to Oak Street Beach or hop on the Lakefront Trail. You’ll see joggers, dog walkers, rollerbladers, and families soaking up the city’s natural side. It’s a local ritual, especially in warm weather, and it’s free to enjoy.

For something cultural, check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago just behind Water Tower Place. It’s smaller, more intimate, and always full of surprises—perfect for an hour or two of wandering.

When hunger hits, Beatrix in Streeterville is a go-to for fresh meals and great people-watching. Whether you're solo or meeting friends, it’s a spot where locals go to refuel and relax.

Experience Wrigley Like a Neighbor

Cap off your local immersion with a night or two at The Chicago Hotel Collection Wrigley. Even outside of baseball season, this neighborhood buzzes with energy.

Locals gather at Gallagher Way for movies, food festivals, or just a casual hang. Bring a blanket, grab something to sip on, and enjoy the laid-back community vibe. If the Cubs are in town, the game day atmosphere is electric—but plenty of people come just for the scene.

Wrigleyville isn’t all sports bars. Veer a few blocks away and you’ll find beloved spots like Big Star for tacos or dive bar classics like Nisei Lounge, where the drinks are cheap and the stories are real. Gman Tavern is another favorite for live music without the pretentious cover charges.

If you're lucky enough to score a suite with a balcony or terrace, spend some time outside. Locals know the best views aren’t always from a skyscraper—they’re from rooftops, porches, and patios, shared with good company.

Stay Where Locals Would Stay—If They Needed a Hotel

Each Chicago neighborhood has its own rhythm, and The Chicago Hotel Collection makes it easy to tap into all of them. With locations that put you in the heart of where locals actually live, eat, and play—not just where tourists line up—you’ll discover a city that’s layered, authentic, and unforgettable.

And when you book direct, you get access to our exclusive Guest Benefits Package, including local discounts and post-stay travel perks. No hidden catches, just smart travel.

Book Direct and Save—your local adventure is waiting.