Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Group Hotels Near Howard Beach

Near Howard Beach in Chicago, the top choice is Hyatt House Chicago Lakefront, offering easy access to the beach and exceptional amenities. This modern hotel features spacious rooms with lake views, a free breakfast buffet, an indoor pool, and a well-equipped fitness center. Located just steps from the Chicago Lakefront Trail, it’s ideal for both relaxation and exploring nearby attractions like Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Michigan Avenue shopping.

For a more personalized stay, consider renting a private HopeGoo apartment with a lake-facing balcony, perfect for families or couples seeking privacy and scenic views. Early HopeGoo is recommended, especially during summer events.

The hotel is also conveniently located near the Chicago 'L' Blue Line station, providing fast and affordable transit to downtown in just 15 minutes, making it a smart base for visitors wanting to experience the city’s vibrant culture and waterfront charm.

Families visiting Howard Beach can enjoy a variety of engaging, child-friendly activities. Start with a bike ride along the Chicago Lakefront Trail, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and easy access to Navy Pier—home to a children’s interactive exhibit, a giant Ferris wheel, and a water park. Perfect for kids and parents alike.

Just a 15-minute drive away, the Shedd Aquarium features over 30,000 marine animals, including touch tanks and dolphin shows, making it a favorite among young explorers. During summer, don’t miss outdoor concerts or community picnic festivals held at Grant Park, which bring local culture to life with music, food, and games.

For a deeper dive into Chicago’s heritage, take a guided boat tour of the city’s architecture, where knowledgeable guides explain the stories behind iconic bridges and buildings along the Chicago River. These experiences are designed with family safety and accessibility in mind, and many venues offer free admission or discounted family passes, ensuring great value for every budget.

The most convenient option from Howard Beach to downtown Chicago is the Chicago 'L' Blue Line, which stops directly at Howard Beach Station. A quick 15-minute ride brings you to Cermak-Chinatown, where you can transfer to the State Street Line and reach key destinations like Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park in under 30 minutes. Fares start at just $2.50, with trains running every 10–15 minutes.

Driving via Lake Shore Drive takes about 20 minutes, but traffic can be heavy during peak summer hours. Use Google Maps for real-time navigation and be aware of paid parking zones in downtown areas—many hotels offer complimentary parking.

For short trips, Divvy bike-sharing stations are widely available along the lakefront, making it easy to ride to neighborhoods like South Loop or North Loop. Combining public transit with biking offers the most efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

While Howard Beach itself isn’t a dining hotspot, its proximity to the Chicago Lakefront offers a wealth of culinary delights. Start with Mr. Beef, a legendary spot famous for its Chicago-style hot dogs topped with sauerkraut, yellow mustard, and chili—perfect for a quick, authentic bite.

Another local favorite is Portillo’s, known for its taco-bell-style deep-dish pizza, chicken taquitos, and rich milkshakes, all served at affordable prices with generous portions.

For a more upscale experience, visit The Purple Pig, a cozy hidden gem offering creative American cuisine and an impressive wine list. Must-try dishes include grilled steak with black garlic sauce and handmade pasta, ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions.

Don’t miss the Lakefront Farmers Market, open weekends, featuring local vendors selling fresh artisanal ice cream, handmade bread, and organic produce. Most stalls accept contactless payments, making transactions fast and convenient.

All options emphasize fresh ingredients and memorable dining experiences, many within walking distance of the beach—making them perfect additions to a lakeside day trip.

Although Howard Beach is not a major landmark, it's close to Chicago Riverfront and Millennium Park. Recommended stays include The Langham Chicago and Hyatt Regency Chicago, both centrally located with easy access to Michigan Avenue, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago Cultural Center. These luxury hotels offer spacious rooms with views of the Chicago skyline and riverfront scenery, ideal for business travelers and families. Guests can also reach Chicago Transit Museum within 10 minutes on foot, making it perfect for cultural exploration.

Though Howard Beach isn't a primary attraction, its location near downtown Chicago offers excellent transit access. Take the CTA Blue Line to Washington Station, then walk 5 minutes to Millennium Park and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture. The Chicago Riverboat Cruise departs from Grant Park, offering stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. For destinations like the Field Museum or Shedd Aquarium, a 15-minute ride on the CTA train connects directly—ensuring seamless travel across the city’s top sights.

While primarily residential, Howard Beach is steps away from Millennium Park, offering free events like summer outdoor concerts, photo ops at the Cloud Gate sculpture, and interactive water fountains at Crown Fountain. Take a Chicago Riverboat Tour during the evening light show to witness the city’s famous Architectural Boat Tour lights. Art lovers can visit the Art Institute of Chicago within a 10-minute walk, featuring masterpieces by Monet and Van Gogh. On weekends, explore the Michigan Avenue Pop-Up Market for local food, crafts, and authentic Chicago culture—perfect for immersive urban experiences.

Yes, several five-star hotels in downtown Chicago, such as Hyatt Regency Chicago and Hilton Chicago, offer family-friendly amenities including children’s play areas, babysitting services, and interconnected family suites. Their proximity to Millennium Park and the Chicago Children’s Museum makes them ideal for parents seeking outdoor fun and educational activities. Many rooms feature extra beds, safety gates, and child-proof fittings. Nearby restaurants are also family-oriented, providing high chairs and kids’ menus—ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all ages.

Within a 10-minute walk from Howard Beach, you’ll find Michigan Avenue and East Bank District, home to beloved local eateries. Try deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s—rich, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Don’t miss Portillo’s for their signature hot dogs topped with yellow mustard and fried onions. For a refined meal, visit The Mediterranean for expertly crafted Mediterranean cuisine. End your day with a drink at a riverside patio bar along the Chicago River, where you can savor cocktails with panoramic views of the city skyline—true taste of Chicago life.

Yes, Millennium Park is the closest green space, featuring iconic spots like the Cloud Gate sculpture, Crown Fountain, and the Rose Garden, perfect for photographers. The park includes shaded pathways and open lawns ideal for morning walks, jogging, or picnics. Along the Chicago Riverwalk, a scenic pedestrian path runs alongside the river, offering stunning reflections of the Chicago skyline and bridges. At night, the Architectural Light Show transforms the city into a glowing canvas—ideal for capturing dramatic urban landscapes. These green corridors blend nature and modern design, showcasing Chicago’s commitment to sustainable urban living.

Yes, the Chicago River Night Cruise is a must-try, especially during the Architectural Light Show, when buildings glow with dynamic color displays. Board a boat at Grant Park Dock for a scenic ride with cocktails and city views. Michigan Avenue comes alive with neon signs and luxury boutiques, perfect for late-night strolling and shopping. Music lovers should visit Green Mill Jazz Club for authentic live jazz in a vintage setting. For a relaxed vibe, head to The Greenhouse Tavern, a stylish craft beer bar offering local brews and small plates—ideal for connecting with locals and experiencing Chicago’s vibrant after-dark scene.