Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade / Weekend

[ski_mom]

My oldest DD has a friend who asked her last minute to go up to Chicago this weekend for the St. Patrick's Day Parade and parties.

I don't know much about it, but I found the parade route online. If they go, they will take a train and use public transportation to get around. Any suggestions on areas to stay? I'm sure it will be expensive to get a hotel close to the action, but there will be 4 in their group splitting the costs, so that will definitely help. I'd personally rather have them in a good area than saving a little money.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! We go to Chicago each year between Christmas and New Years and stay on the Mag Mile, but I don't even know if that's a good location for this weekend.

 

[nd5056]

Not sure what Hotel to recommend since I'm sure the Parade with only be part of the desired festivities. If $ is flexible, you could find a spot near all those activities. Personally, I'd like to have a room with the view of Chicago River, around Michigan Ave.

Here is an Official Guide for St. Patric Day in Chicago. Explore the frequently asked questions and Parade/River dyeing guide from the side menu

 

[Gr8t Fan]

River North, Magnificent Mile, Chicago Loop, South Loop will all be pretty close to the action and are all safe areas.

 

[Cheetie]

I’d stay in River North. The parade route is to the south, and there are lots of bars and restaurants there and to the north.

 

[ski_mom]

Thanks for the advice everyone - this gives us a place to start!

 

[Dan Murphy]

Though I am North Side Irish myself, don't forget the South Side Irish parade on Sunday, St. Patrick's Day itself.

https://www.google.com/search?ei=xc.....0.0..0.0.0.......0......gws-wiz.yAoFnzxBR8M

https://southsideirishparade.org/

Be aware of this new rule added a couple years ago.

ZERO Tolerance
The South Side Irish Parade is a family-friendly event and has a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol along the parade route. It is strictly enforced in accordance with a City of Chicago ordinance which includes fines up to $1,000 for open containers in the public way.

The annual South Side Irish Parade is a great day to spend time with family and friends, both in neighborhood homes and in local establishments. We encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly and help keep our annual tradition a safe, family friendly event. Many Western Avenue restaurants and pubs support the parade, and we hope you will support them in a responsible manner and help us ensure that everyone has a safe, enjoyable parade. Sláinte!