The Michigan Avenue Bridge isn’t just a crossing—it’s a showstopper. At night, glowing lights turn it into a shimmering silver river slicing through the skyline, framed by towering skyscrapers. For jaw-dropping cityscapes, this is the spot to capture Chicago’s electric soul.




Everything you need to know about DuSable Bridge
Marriott Chicago Riverfront is a top choice, just a short walk from the Michigan Avenue Bridge, offering panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the bridge’s steel arches and the dynamic skyline. The hotel provides complimentary access to the scenic riverwalk, perfect for evening strolls to admire the illuminated bridge and passing boats.
Alternatively, InterContinental Chicago features an elevated executive lounge with sweeping views of the bridge and Michigan Avenue’s bustling urban rhythm. Guests enjoy premium perks like welcome cocktails and express check-out, ideal for travelers seeking luxury and convenience. Both properties are located in the heart of the Michigan Avenue business district, within 10 minutes’ walk of shopping hubs like Madison Street.
From the Michigan Avenue Bridge, a 5-minute walk leads directly to the Art Institute of Chicago and the North Michigan Avenue shopping district, passing through Millennium Park and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture—perfect for cultural and architectural exploration. For destinations like Willis Tower Skydeck or the Shedd Aquarium, hop on a CTA Bus Route 151 or use Divvy Bike Share for a 30-minute ride.
Additionally, the Chicago Riverboat Tour departs nearby, offering a 20-minute scenic journey combining aerial and water-level views of the city’s skyline and bridges—ideal for capturing Chicago’s dynamic urban rhythm from a unique perspective.
Don’t miss the nighttime light show at the Michigan Avenue Bridge, where dynamic LED lighting pulses in rhythm every evening starting at 7 PM, casting vibrant reflections across the Chicago River. Take a Chicago Riverboat Tour to glide beneath the bridge and experience its steel arch structure from below, with live commentary on engineering and history.
During summer, enjoy outdoor concerts and alfresco movie screenings held on the riverfront weekends, paired with craft beer and skyline views. The bridge also features designated photo spots, especially during morning mist, perfect for capturing iconic shots of the bridge framed by distant skyscrapers—ideal for social media and travel storytelling.
Yes, several family-friendly hotels surround the Michigan Avenue Bridge. The Hilton Chicago Riverfront offers kid-friendly suites, play areas, free breakfast, and barrier-free riverwalk access—ideal for safe, enjoyable walks with children.
The hotel partners with the Chicago Museum of Science & Industry and Children’s Museum of Chicago to provide "Family Explorer Packages" including tickets and shuttle service. Nearby Millennium Park features interactive fountains, playgrounds, and regular parent-child workshops, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and learning.
The area boasts excellent safety, with all major attractions within a 15-minute walk, making it an ideal base for family travel.
Marriott Marquis Chicago is a top choice, located just a 3-minute walk from the Michigan Avenue Bridge, offering rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning views of the Chicago River and the bridge’s iconic skyline. The hotel features luxury amenities, including a rooftop bar and direct access to shopping districts like Magnificent Mile.
Another excellent option is Hyatt Regency Chicago, situated along the riverfront with spacious river-view rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and seamless connectivity to Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago, and major transit lines. Both properties combine prime location, modern comfort, and exceptional service—perfect for travelers seeking a blend of convenience and scenic beauty.
Yes, the area around the Michigan Avenue Bridge is highly accessible via Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). The Blue Line subway stops at State Street and Washington Station, both within a 5-minute walk of the bridge. Multiple CTA bus routes (including 12, 14, 20, and 26) run along Michigan Avenue, providing frequent connections across downtown.
For drivers, there are several public parking lots and taxi stands nearby. However, visitors are encouraged to use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or rent a Divvy bike for eco-friendly travel between the bridge, Millennium Park, and other attractions. This multi-modal access ensures smooth, efficient movement for both locals and tourists exploring the heart of Chicago.
Near the Michigan Avenue Bridge, visitors can enjoy several unique experiences. Take a Chicago River Boat Tour to glide beneath the bridge and witness the dazzling nighttime light show known as "River Glow," especially vibrant during summer evenings.
Head to Millennium Park for free outdoor concerts, art installations, and photo ops at the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture. Stroll along Michigan Avenue to explore high-end boutiques and designer flagship stores, then unwind with a riverside afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago's rooftop terrace.
These experiences blend urban elegance, cultural vibrancy, and scenic beauty—perfect for capturing the essence of Chicago’s dynamic city life.
Yes, several hotels near the Michigan Avenue Bridge are ideal for families. Marriott Marquis Chicago offers family suites with separate living areas, cribs, and children’s toiletries. It features an indoor pool, a dedicated kids’ play zone, and regular family workshops and themed events.
Hyatt Regency Chicago also provides family-friendly services, including welcome gift bags for children, kid-friendly meal options, and 24-hour room service. Both hotels are within a 10-minute walk of Millennium Park, Shedd Aquarium, and the Children’s Museum of Chicago.
Many offer complimentary shuttle services to local attractions, ensuring stress-free exploration for parents and fun-filled days for kids. With strong emphasis on safety, convenience, and child-centered amenities, these hotels deliver a seamless family experience in downtown Chicago.
See what other travelers say about DuSable Bridge

The location is perfect—just steps away from downtown Chicago and super convenient for getting around via the train. The rooms overlook Wacker Drive, offering a great view of the city skyline. Staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, going the extra mile to ensure a comfortable stay. From check-in to check-out, everything was seamless. This hotel is an absolute gem for anyone visiting Chicago—it’s definitely my top pick and I’d stay here again without hesitation.

Staying at Central Loop Hotel in Chicago was a great experience overall. The room was spotlessly clean, and the atmosphere felt welcoming and well-maintained. Staff were friendly and helpful—always a plus when you're on a business trip. For travelers looking for affordable yet reliable accommodation near the convention center, this hotel stands out. It’s especially budget-friendly compared to other options in the area, making it a smart choice for business visitors who want value without compromising comfort. Plus, it’s just four stops away from the convention center on the train—super convenient and saved me time commuting. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Chicago for work or even leisure.

Located right in the heart of downtown Chicago, this hotel offers an unbeatable position in the bustling central district. Despite being surrounded by city energy, the property itself is surprisingly quiet and peaceful—perfect for a relaxing stay. I noticed many local American guests staying here, with no tour groups in sight, giving it a more authentic, residential vibe. Walking to Lake Michigan is incredibly convenient—just a short stroll away. While our room didn’t include breakfast, there are plenty of great dining options nearby, making it easy to grab a meal without hassle. The location, comfort, and overall experience earned my full recommendation. I’d definitely book again if I’m back in Chicago.

I stayed at River Hotel during the AACR large conference, and while booking was late and prices were on the higher side, it was still worth it. The room size is average—nothing extravagant, but clean and well-kept. The real highlight? Location. Right on the Chicago River, with the boat tour dock just across the street—perfect for a scenic evening cruise. It's not super close to Cloud Gate (the Bean) or Lake Michigan, but it’s within a comfortable walking distance if you're up for a stroll. The downtown area is safe, vibrant, and packed with iconic skyscrapers—feels like being right in the heart of the city’s energy. Even though the price was steep due to high demand, the convenience, views, and central location made it a solid choice. For a busy event period when rooms are scarce, this hotel delivers both comfort and unbeatable access.

I can't recommend this Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile enough. The location is unbeatable—right across from Trader Joe's, so grocery shopping is a breeze. It's just a 7-8 minute walk to Trump Tower, and less than 20 minutes to Millennium Park. From there, it's only a few more minutes to the shores of Lake Michigan—perfect for a relaxing evening stroll. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We arrived at 10 AM, and even though check-in wasn't available yet, they gladly stored our luggage at no extra cost. When we returned around 2:30 PM, we were told to wait about 25 minutes. But instead of leaving us waiting in limbo, the staff actually came to check on us—and discovered a room was already ready! They apologized and made sure we were taken care of right away. While the amenities aren't flashy, the rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. For the price and convenience, this place offers outstanding value. I’ll definitely be back if I ever visit Chicago again.

The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from the Chicago River and surrounded by great dining, shopping, and attractions. From the moment I checked in, the staff went above and beyond with their friendly and professional service. The room was clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with a perfect bed that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated the delicious breakfast options—fresh, varied, and well-prepared. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed to enhance the stay. This hotel truly delivers on every level, and I’d definitely return without hesitation.

This is our second time staying at Eurostars Magnificent Mile, and we’re already planning our next visit! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown Chicago, with endless shops, restaurants, tourist spots, supermarkets, and bars just steps away. We absolutely love the on-site sauna—it’s perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The room is spacious, clean, and well-appointed, making it feel like a home away from home. The staff go above and beyond with their friendly, genuine hospitality. This hotel feels like a hidden gem, and it’s now our go-to choice whenever we come to Chicago. Don’t miss the downstairs restaurant, River North Bistro—especially during happy hour! The food and drinks are fantastic, and the vibe is lively yet relaxed. Highly recommend this place for both business and leisure travelers.

Staying at Chinatown Hotel Chicago was an absolute delight! The room features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light—every morning felt like a fresh start. What stood out most was the excellent air circulation; even on warmer days, the room stayed refreshingly cool without relying heavily on the AC. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great local eateries, making it perfect for exploring the vibrant neighborhood. Clean, well-designed rooms with thoughtful touches make this hotel a hidden gem in Chicago. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a true local vibe, this place is a must-try.

Staying at Hotel Felix in Chicago's North Loop was a great experience. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the train station, making it super convenient to explore downtown and the Magnificent Mile. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, so dining options are never an issue. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The only downside was a plumbing issue on our last day, which meant we had to take a cold shower—minor inconvenience, but nothing major. Overall, the hotel offers excellent value, clean rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.

Staying at The Buckingham Hotel in Chicago was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond—warm, friendly, and incredibly helpful right from the moment we arrived. I booked a room with an amazing view, and it did not disappoint—the skyline stretched out before me, especially breathtaking at night when the city lights came on. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, from the cozy furnishings to the quiet, well-maintained hallways. What really stood out was how accommodating the team was—they anticipated needs without being intrusive and made sure every request was handled with a smile. If I could rate this hotel 10 stars instead of 5, I absolutely would. This isn’t just a great place to stay—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll be back, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.

The Langham Chicago is perfectly located—right across from Trump Tower, with Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, riverboat docks, and a wide array of restaurants all within easy walking distance. The front desk staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. We booked two rooms—one had weak heating, making it slightly chilly; the other had a leaking toilet and water pooling in the shower area upon arrival. However, these were minor issues compared to the overall experience. The hotel’s elegant ambiance, high-quality furnishings, and attention to detail truly stand out. Despite the small setbacks, the location, service, and general luxury make this a top choice for future stays.

The location is fantastic—just half a block from Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. There’s a Walgreens and several restaurants right next door, which adds convenience for daily needs. The apartment itself is spacious with two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and great views across the street to the Cultural Center, which is definitely worth a visit. However, there were some serious issues during our stay. Water damage was visible in the unit, with flakes of ceiling paint falling onto the bed—very concerning. While the kitchen had appliances, it came completely empty; no kettle, microwave, or even basic cookware, so we couldn’t even heat water or reheat leftovers. Housekeeping also didn’t provide washcloths, and the floors were so dirty that my socks and feet turned black after walking around. Internet and cell reception were terrible—we had to contact customer service for login details, but it took hours to get a reply, and even then, the connection kept dropping in and out. Overall, the property has strong potential due to its prime location and size, but the lack of basic amenities and maintenance problems significantly impact the experience. I’d recommend this place only if you’re okay with dealing with these shortcomings.
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