Chicago On Fire
On Monday, climb aboard a century-old fireboat and follow the same waterways that firefighters once used to fight fires from the water. At the same time, you'll learn all about the beautiful architecture of many of the buildings that define Chicago's skyline today.
Chicago On Fire
On Monday, climb aboard a century-old fireboat and follow the same waterways that firefighters once used to fight fires from the water. At the same time, you'll learn all about the beautiful architecture of many of the buildings that define Chicago's skyline today.
CHICAGO FIREBOAT ARCHITECTURE TOUR
Step back in time 100 years aboard an iconic fireboat
Travel the same waterways from which the fireboat Fred A. Busse once fought fires and provided emergency aid. Departing from Lake Michigan, professional guides take you through the locks and up the Chicago River, explaining Chicago's extraordinary architecture, amazing history and the ship's heroic connection to the city of Chicago and the fire department. Expect epic tales, and imagine yourself stepping back in time 100 years, with fires in wooden buildings on the riverbanks, urgently needing to be extinguished. Then get back in the time machine and admire the impressive architecture of today.
In addition to some world-famous skyscrapers (such as the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Centre), you'll have the opportunity to contemplate many beautiful historic buildings, such as the Wrigley Building and the Tribune Tower, witnesses to a rich architectural heritage.
The iconic Fred A. Busse sails every Monday during the summer months, and you can climb aboard for a trip back in time to Chicago!
What's included
Fireboat architecture tour (1 hour 30) with English-speaking guide*
Overnight stay in one of our selected hotels (your choice)
Flights Brussels-Chicago-Brussels
Would you like to enjoy advantageous access to numerous museums and attractions in Chicago? Then opt for the Go City Explorer Pass as an option, which is even more convenient if you have it in your pocket before you leave. The price varies depending on the number of attractions you wish to visit, it's up to you to choose!
*This package is available for trips between May 23 and September 1 as there is no guarantee that the boat will sail before or after this period due to variable weather conditions. Both the outward and return flights can be freely chosen any day of the week but beware as the fireboat tour is only on Mondays so when booking your package, Monday should definitely be part of your stay to enjoy this experience.
Boutique
IVY BOUTIQUE HOTEL ***
Chic urban getaway and rooftop terrace with skyline views
Located in the heart of Chicago, just two blocks from the stores, restaurants and entertainment of the Magnificent Mile, the Ivy Boutique Hotel embodies luxury and modernity. With just 63 guest rooms, it enjoys an intimate atmosphere. You'll be staying in a beautiful room of contemporary design, offering a high level of comfort.
All rooms feature modern dark wood furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel boasts a magnificent rooftop terrace with panoramic views over the city, a gourmet restaurant and a welcoming lounge. Thanks to its central location, the Ivy Boutique Hotel is the ideal base for exploring the city!
Boutique
EMILY HOTEL ***
Modernist with an arty twist and an open-air cinema
Welcome to The Emily Hotel, a boutique hotel in the heart of Chicago's Fulton Market, inspired by the belief that art changes the way we see the world. With its modernist rooms offering every comfort and its design spaces featuring a collection of artworks from here and abroad, this establishment offers the perfect setting to spend wonderful moments together and feel inspired.
You'll also find a range of culinary and experience-oriented highlights. Start the day at Coffee Bar with a coffee from local roaster Sparrow Coffee, enjoy a leisurely lunch on the terrace at Fora, immerse yourself in 90s hip-hop at Sushi by Bou, whose style is reminiscent of the speakeasies of yesteryear, or sip a drink until sunset at Selva. And what about the Rooftop Cinema Club? Located on the hotel's fifth-floor terrace, this open-air cinema offers a weekly program of timeless films, to be watched on a state-of-the-art LED screen with wireless headphones.
Charme
CHICAGO ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION ****
Staying in a historic and architectural gem
Staying at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel is a true experience. Housed in a magnificent historic building on Michigan Avenue, the Chicago Athletic Association has a rich history dating back to 1893. Originally founded as an exclusive gentlemen's club for athletes, the building has been lovingly restored to become a 241-room luxury hotel.
Despite its modern facilities, the hotel retains its original charm and architectural details, offering guests a unique and immersive experience in the heart of Chicago. Cosy rooms are decorated with old-fashioned gym equipment and you can sip a cocktail in the Milk Bar, once a speakeasy and now a microbar seating just eight.
Design
NOBU HOTEL****
The perfect balance between design and tradition, serenity and party
From the oshibori ritual of offering guests a towel on arrival, to the special welcome drink, Nobu Chicago acts as a serene haven and a beacon of fusion. The art and food scene of Fulton Market converge here with Nobu's traditional Japanese and ultra-modern style. Indulge your taste buds at The Rooftop, where chef Nobu Matsuhisa's masterful menu is served with skyline views.
Enjoy the serenity and Japanese minimalism in your room, where your senses can take a moment to unwind before diving into Chicago's vibrant nightlife. The next morning an outstanding breakfast awaits with chef's specialties such as the salmon and egg donburi, a heavenly combination of salmon, sushi rice, egg and oriental flavorings like ginger and soy sauce. Oh yes!
Green
CITIZENM HOTEL ****
Elegant, sustainable accommodation downtown
Discover the modern charm of the CitizenM Hotel in Chicago, where luxury and sustainability go hand in hand. This innovative hotel combines elegant design with a commitment to sustainability, offering guests a unique and responsible experience.
The CitizenM aims to reduce its carbon footprint through energy-efficient lighting, water-saving measures and the use of sustainable materials in its construction and furnishings. In addition, guests are encouraged to actively participate in waste reduction and the preservation of natural resources during their stay. Enjoy the comfort and luxury of CitizenM, while contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for our planet.
Premium
THE HOXTON *****
An upscale hotel experience in the heart of Chicago's creativity
The Hoxton is located on the corner of Lake Street and Green Street, in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Fulton Market district. This former industrial area is now a creative hub with trendy galleries and boutiques, as well as some of the city's best bars and restaurants. The hotel itself is a perfect blend of style and elegance, with a vast infrastructure. Located in the hotel lobby, Cira is a modern Mediterranean restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and a tasty weekend brunch.
On the rooftop, Cabra is a Peruvian-inspired cevicheria from chef Stephanie Izard. Finally, for an evening drink, head to Lazy Bird, where you can listen to live music while enjoying a cocktail (or two). Rooms are luxuriously appointed, with natural leather on the headboard and bedding by Chicago artist Cody Hudson. Artwork in the rooms comes from local gallery Johalla Projects. Some of Chicago's best emerging creative talents are featured.
Optional activity
GO CITY EXPLORER PASS
Go City's Chicago Explorer Pass lets you visit top attractions like Navy Pier, Skydeck Chicago or The Field Museum, all on one convenient pass. Enjoy savings of up to -50% on admission according to your choice of 2 to 7 top Chicago attractions and tours, and pay nothing at the entrance.
To help you put together your own itinerary, you'll also get a free digital guide. Use it to help you decide what to do, where to go and how to get there. The most popular activities require advance reservations. Some top picks from the offerings included: Adler Planetarium, Museum of Science and History, Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio Tour, Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Home and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Why choose Connections?
Because we are travellers, just like you. Always looking for exciting experiences, fascinating encounters and new horizons. Because we are 100% Belgian and can assist you in your own language. Because we make it our personal mission to lift your travels beyond your wildest imagination. Because life is more intense when you travel, really travel!
More about ConnectionsThe twinkle in the eye
Do not expect conformity from us. We are always looking for those extra ingredients that make your trip truly special. We swear by intense experiences.
Over 100 Travel designers around the country
Meet the Connections crew in our Travel Shops located all over Belgium. All of our Travel Designers are looking forward to meeting you and welcome you with open arms.
+35 Years on the road
We've been paving our way for a while. Travelling with Connections means choosing 'peace of mind'. Everything perfectly arranged, excellent service, certainty and reliability.
Always by your side
We're here whenever you need us! Available via our website, our travel shops, our customer service center, at the airport and via our mobile travel agents.