Central Station Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central Station
Popular places to visit
Wrigley Field
A big piece of Chicago's soul, an ancient stadium that keeps alive the quirky, edgy madness of baseball.
Naval Base Great Lakes
After visiting Naval Base Great Lakes, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in North Chicago. Wander the lakeside in this family-friendly area.
Navy Pier
One of Chicago’s most popular attractions, especially on a hot day, with its fun fair, boats, circus and theatre.
McCormick Place
Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.
Michigan Avenue
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Activities
Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission
Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
Our pick of the best Central Station Hotel Deals
Congress Plaza Hotel
"Very old hotel but location is great for Grant Park and Soldier Field. Toilet was extremely low and many chipped tiles in bathroom. Wallpaper peeling in hallways. Service was very slow in restaurant. We left and didn’t eat onsite."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
The Chicago Hotel Collection - Magnificent Mile
"The front desk staff at night and during the day upon checkout were incredibly warm, welcoming and friendly. Our original hotel was oversold and the front desk staff at that “unnamed” hotel just a few blocks away were awful and rude. It was a welcoming experience to come to this hotel and be greeted ..."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent Mile
"Staff is excellent. Breakfast was below standards - muffins, fruit, juice, and a couple breakfast sandwiches the staff put in the microwave. I’d pass on the breakfast. Nice location. Rooms were okay - the bed in our room was full of cat scratches."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
River Hotel
"My stay at the River Hotel was excellent from start to finish. The location is unbeatable, making it easy to explore the surrounding area, and the views were a great bonus. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with everything I needed for a relaxing stay."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Freehand Chicago
"This hotel is well located but not clean at all. I asked for room service and they never cleaned the room (we were there for 6 nights)."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Central Station
South Loop
Soldier Field and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in South Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Roosevelt Station or Cermak-McCormick Place Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops.
Near South Side
Travellers choose Near South Side for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Cermak-McCormick Place Station or Roosevelt Station and check out top sights like Soldier Field.
Theatre District
While you're in Theatre District, take in top sights like Michigan Avenue or State Street, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Washington Station or Monroe Station (Blue Line).
The Loop
Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in The Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Washington Station or Lake Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.
Downtown Chicago
Known for its fascinating museums, stunning river views and gorgeous architecture, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Chicago. Top attractions like Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue are major draws. Catch the metro at State Station or Clark-Lake Station to see more of the city.
West Loop
Consider a visit to Milwaukee Avenue and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in West Loop. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Racine Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center.
