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Whether you need to know local public holidays or highlights through the seasons, we hope you will find the facts gathered below useful tools for your travel planning. Please feel free to contact us if we can assist you further.

General information

The first settlers built beside Lake Michigan about 150 years ago, and the inhabitants rebuilt the city after the Great Fire of 1871. Today, three of the world’s six largest buildings sway in the skyline of the Windy City.

At The Ritz-Carlton Chicago’s Water Tower Place address, you are an elevator ride away from Magnificent Mile shops and a five-minute stroll from the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Hancock Observatory. The Hotel’s location places the best of Chicago – in all directions – conveniently close.

Time zone

GMT -6 hours
Central Standard Time

Language(s) spoken

English is the primary language

Electrical system

Local voltage is 110 to 120 volts AC. Adapters available; please request through the Concierge.

Shopping hours

Monday to Saturday 7:00 am to 11:00 pm
Sunday 7:00 am to 10:00 pm

Working hours

Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Time and distance to city centre

7 minutes/1.5 miles/2 kilometres

Time and distance to shopping

Oak Street is two blocks from the Hotel. Magnificent Mile is at the street level of the Hotel.

Time and distance to financial district

10 minutes/2 miles/3 kilometres

View in–depth travel advice from Frommers.com

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Seasonal highlights

Winter

Transform your winter blahs into winter "ahhhs"! Come celebrate "Light Nights on the Magnificent Mile" and experience a fireworks show every Saturday evening. In between museum hopping and shopping, ice skating is the rage. A night on the town includes fine dining options, as well as world-renowned concerts and theatre.

Summer

Beginning in June, summer events include the annual Blues Festival, Taste of Chicago, Country Music Festival, Independence Day Concert and Fireworks, Venetian Night, Air & Water Show and Jazz Festival. Fireworks at Navy Pier happen every Wednesday and Saturday night.

For a listing of year-round activities, festivals and events please visit the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau web site.

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