Dreaming of a Windy City getaway with your girl gang? Chicago is where dreams come true and a perfect place to host your bachelorette party. And we’ve got everything you need to know about hosting a Chicago bachelorette party!
Why you should have a bachelorette party in Chicago?
Chicago is a complete package for an unforgettable bachelorette party, sure to make you lose track of time and create memories you’ll never forget. Night glitters brighter than the day here since the city never sleeps – a perfect place for nonstop action!
This party city is famous for its delectable foods, picturesque waterfronts, breathtaking rooftop bars, futuristic architecture, magnificent shopping, and ear-splitting dance clubs crammed with revelers.
Chicago is an authentic representation of Midwestern charm, catering to the needs of every bride type – be it “Miss chill pill” or “Miss perfectionist” (Monica from Friends, anyone?).
Two things make the city one of the best bachelorette party destinations in the US:
First, it offers all the luxuries needed to customize a party to exceed the bride-to-be’s vision. For example:
Beach lovers can enjoy the three S’s at North Avenue Beach – sun, sand, and sea, while sports lovers can root for the home team at some of the city’s iconic sports venues including Soldier Field or Wrigley Field. And outdoors enthusiasts can have an adrenaline rush at Maggie Daley Park. Plus, Chicago is a shopping paradise where you can shop until they drop, coupled with a tasteful art culture to satisfy the artistic genes of the group. In short, there is something for everyone here!
Second, no two days are similar in a Chicago bachelorette party! One day you will be sailing away from the skyscrapers with ever-changing skyline views on a cruise. The next day you will find yourself on a dance floor at the Smart Bar, or enjoying one of the city’s many music festivals.
When should you go to Chicago?
The best time to travel to Chicago is in spring and summer, between April and September. The city buzzes at its fullest with events and festivals happening at every corner of the Windy City. However, if you’re visiting in the fall and winter months, winter bells and snow blankets do not slow down the festivities, making Chicago a great option during the winter months as well.
Start saving now if you plan for a bachelorette party in Chicago. Depending on the season and degree of luxury desired, a three-day trip to the Windy City can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,200+ per person.
How to get to Chicago
First things first! Let’s plan your arrival to the Second City (Chicago was rebuilt after the 1871 fire destruction that burned it to the ground, giving it the classic nickname).
Travel is a breeze to get to the well-connected city in the heart of the US. Explore various commute options depending on your budget and time.
$ Budget-friendly
By car: Chicago is easily accessible by car from any part of the country. It is within a few hours’ drive of Milwaukee, Madison, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, and Detroit. A widespread network of interstates and highways makes the city accessible all year long: I-90, I-94, I-55, I-290, and I-294, just to name a few.
$$ Mid-tier
By Bus: Hiring a private bus of 18-25 passengers is another good option if you are traveling from Midwest cities like Indianapolis, Madison, or Detroit. This way the party will kick off before you even set foot in Chicago. Plus, you can bring mountains of bachelorette party supplies and bachelorette gifts without worrying about space.
By Train: All important cities in the five-state region of the Midwest, namely Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Missouri, are linked to Chicago by Amtrak. Make sure to get your tickets in advance for cheaper fares (And to give yourself a pinch that it’s really happening!).
$$$ Splurge
By Air: Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport are the two main international airports in the city, 16 and 11 miles from downtown.
O’Hare is the larger of the two airports, with four operating terminals serving non-stop flights from over 220+ destinations. From O’Hare, visitors can get downtown using rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft, or by taking the L Train on the Blue Line.
Getting around in Chicago
The 35-block downtown area of Chicago is best to explore on foot since there is action at every step (this area is also called “The Loop”). There are four other ways if you want to save your legs for all-nighters. Chicago’s neighborhoods are also great for exploring, with a few easy ways to get around:
$ Budget-friendly
Public Transportation: 8 ‘L’ train lines and 129 bus routes covers every inch of Chicago for a hassle-free transportation system – 3rd biggest in the country! Red and Blue lines operate round-the-clock under the watch of the Chicago Transit Authority. L Train fare is $2.50, with a 1-day pass available for only $5.00.
Bikes & Scooters: Bikes and scooters are readily available at docking stations throughout the city for quick trips from place to place. You’ll see bikes and scooters from platforms including Lyft, Uber, and more. Just download the app to rent and ride!
These options work best during the warm spring, summer, and fall months to explore the marvels of the city. The freedom to explore street art murals, interact with the friendly locals, and have adventures in an unknown city with your bachelorette group is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
$$ Mid-tier
Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and Curb (a Chicago-based Taxi service) are all accessible 24/7 at the convenience of a few taps.
$$$ Splurge
Rental Cars/Driving: Rental cars are a good option if you want to take full control and get over the commute problems once and for all! Car rentals are available at the city’s airports, as well as various locations throughout the city. Just be prepared for traffic jams during peak hours and the need to look for parking. Residential neighborhoods also require you have a special residential permit!
If you want to leave the driving to someone else, rent a limousine with Echo Limousine service – The queens deserve royal treatment after all!
Where to stay in Chicago
Going on your ultimate escapade to the third-largest city in the country without knowing where to stay can be stressful. Chicago offers a broad spectrum of properties, depending on the budget and preference of the bachelorette group.
An obvious choice is to stay in “The Loop” which is considered the city center. The downtown area offers multiple accommodation options, ranging from budget apartments to luxurious suites. Other popular Chicago neighborhoods include Fulton Market (an entertainment district), Wrigleyville (near Wrigley Field and college bars), and Gold Coast (a historic and luxurious neighborhood).
Here are some lodging options during your Chicago bachelorette party to guarantee a fun stay for every pocket.
$ Budget-friendly
A great option to keep the bachelorette group under one roof is by renting an entire house or apartment downtown. This three-bedroom penthouse in the Loop costs around $500/night and can host up to eight people. This Sonder Greektown apartment is full of character, hosting up to four people at approximately $170/ night per room, and just steps away from the popular Fulton Market neighborhood. They also have a three-bedroom suite option, starting at $330/night, for group up to eight people.
Stay Pineapple, An Iconic Hotel, The Loop is a budget-friendly hotel option. Depending on your dates, room rates can start at $320/night for a group of four, or $160/night for room for two. The hotel also offers amenities such as signature beach cruisers to ride around town!
The Moxy Chicago Downtown: Soak up the upbeat vibe of the city while enjoying an exclusive bar, 24/7 fitness center, refreshing eatery, and views of the majestic Chicago skyline from the room – all at a few step distance from the Magnificent Mile. A room for two costs around $160/night here.
$$ Mid-tier
This Designer 3-Bedroom Penthouse in Fulton Market sleeps 12 people and is priced at about $700 / night. It’s a gorgeous loft space that has been featured in Architectural Digest!
$$$ Splurge
The Viceroy Hotel in Gold Coast is a beautiful luxury hotel with stunning design, great in-hotel bar and restaurant options (the Devereaux Rooftop Lounge and The Somerset restaurant with a “new-fashioned take on country club culture.), and a vibrant neighborhood location. Rooms start at $365+ per night.
Airbnb also offers luxury accommodations, like this Stunning House in Old Town with 5 bedrooms (sleeps 12), priced around $1,400 per night. You will have the entire custom-built, six-level home to yourself, complete with a movie theater room and rooftop deck.
Best Things to Do in Chicago
Your bachelorette group will have the time of their lives in Chicago where they can revel into the wee hours of the morning, or spend days exploring the city’s beautiful sights.
From rooftop restaurants to waterfront dining, kayaking in the river, spa services, and delicious cuisines, Chicago has it all! Here are a few options to cater to every budget for your Chicago bachelorette party.
$ Budget-friendly
Stroll along the Riverwalk: Nature lovers should head to Chicago’s Riverwalk to stroll along the iconic Chicago River and take in some of the city’s beautiful architecture. Grab cocktails at one of the many patio bars and restaurants, enjoy live performances, paddleboard the river, and take in the breathtaking scenery with your girls.
Relax at the beach: Take in the best of both worlds with plenty of swimming spots and water activities to enjoy at North Avenue Beach. It’s easily accessible by public transport, walking, biking, or taking a ride!
Explore graffiti and street art: Street art uplifts the character of the city with vibrant colors and animated touches on unexpected corners and walls of the city. It is a perfect place for the bachelorette group to take Instagram-worthy pictures. Be sure to check out the “Greetings From” Chicago mural in Logan Square!
$$ Mid-tier
Go Kayaking: Splash around in the Chicago River with a guided kayak tour. The experience costs around $35 per person.
Get a dose of comedy: The Second City Chicago features famous comedians who know how to bust the guts of their audience – A perfect venue for the bride with a good sense of humor. Tickets to a show start around $30.00.
$$$ Splurge
Shop The Magnificent Mile: Take in the city’s main shopping district, home to flagship stores from Nordstrom, Burberry, and Giorgio Armani, as well as Levi’s, Nike, and Victoria’s Secret. Make sure to stop at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, the new flagship store of the coffee giant.
Charter a boat: Cruise with a group of up to 12 party animals on the private yacht service by Knot My Boat. It features a multi-zone sound system and a luxurious interior at $400/hr normally and $562.50/hr on weekends.
Pool party on a rooftop: The Hoxton Hotel in Fulton Market boasts a rooftop restaurant and bar (Cabra), as well as a pool, perfect for sipping on cocktails while taking in the city’s views. And to end the day, check out the Lazy Bird cocktail and jazz bar downstairs.
We hope you have a fantastic time in the Windy City for your Chicago bachelorette party! Make sure to check out our other resources and guides, including Nashville, Montauk, NY, and 80s Theme Bachelorette Party.
We’d love to see pictures from your trip – make sure to tag @BDR on Instagram!
If this is your first time planning a bachelorette party, you should definitely check out our Bachelorette 101 guide for more information.