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Fun Christmas in Chicago

Curated by
Erica Christie
There’s something magical about Christmastime in Chicago. Not even the Grinch could resist feeling festive amidst the twinkling lights, ice skating, Christmas markets, and beautifully decorated hotels and restaurants. A Christmastime trip to Chicago will leave you feeling like a kid again!

Five Star Hotels in Chicago

Curated by
Katie McAvoy
Chicago might not be the first place you think of for a luxury getaway. As a local, I may be a bit biased, but if you love great food and fabulous five-star luxury hotels, you need to get here. Did I mention that it’s an easy flight from just about anywhere in the US? Yes, winters can be cold, but with these hotels you don’t need to go anywhere but down to the spa. There are so many amazing five star hotels in Chicago that it was a challenge to pick my top 5, but here they are! Weekend away, planned.

Time to be Pampered: Chicago's Best Luxury Hotels

Curated by
Katie Larsen
Chicago is a city full of culture, incredible food, shopping and entertainment. It also is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world. I’ve been lucky enough to spend time in what I would consider the top tier luxury hotels in Chicago and am ready to spill details on all of the best kept rooms and suites, spas, amenities and secrets with others to enjoy as well.

Three–Day Group Trip in Chicago

Curated by
Alicia Anderson
Chicago – the Second City, the Windy City, City by the Lake, My Kind of Town. Whatever Chicago is to you, for me it is home! I recently had the pleasure to book a three-day corporate group for some clients in my home city, and no matter the season, Chicago has a lot to offer to groups of all sizes. Reach out to me for help booking your group trip to Chicago!

Chicago Athletic Association Site Visit

Curated by
Meghan Irle
I had the pleasure of visiting the Chicago Athletic Association hotel. This hotel is located directly across from Millennium Park/Grant Park (where the Lollapalooza is hosted). Originally, this hotel was an athletic club for Chicago men. One of the founders was William Wrigley, so you will see the classic C design throughout the space. This hotel represents the old-school Chicago culture and design through and through.

Elope in Chicago

Curated by
Alexandra Vigilante Chamberlin
Eloping in Chicago offers couples a perfect blend of romance, charm, and convenience. In this easy to reach metropolis with stunning backdrops ranging from the iconic skyline to picturesque parks, couples can intimately exchange vows amidst the city's beauty. Traditional weddings can be expensive, stressful affairs while eloping allows couples to embrace spontaneity, be authentic to their values, and still treat themselves to luxury. Chicago's vibrant culinary scene, rich cultural offering, and architectural wonders ensure an unforgettable and personalized elopement experience for every couple.

A Local’s Guide: Discover Dining and More in Chicago

Curated by
Alexandra Vigilante Chamberlin
Chicago has become a city that I cherish deeply after calling it home for the past decade. It’s where I discovered my love of fine dining and an appreciation for artistry in the kitchen. From refined Michelin star and James Beard award winners to casual local classics, let’s explore!

Luxury on the Magnificent Mile: My Experience at the Omni Chicago Hotel

Curated by
Amanda Schneider
The Omni Chicago Hotel holds a special place in my heart because it blends the energy of the Magnificent Mile with the comfort of a true urban retreat. From the moment I walked in, I felt wrapped in warm hospitality and sophisticated charm. Its central location made it easy to explore the best of Chicago while having a peaceful place to return to. This hotel isn't just a place to stay — it’s part of the Chicago experience.

Best Affordable Hotels in Downtown Chicago

Curated by
Jonna Robertson
We love to do big things in Chicago. The birthplace of the skyscraper and a hub of innovation, Chicago is a city where big and bold ideas come to life. Our legacy of hosting unforgettable events dates all the way back to the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893. From world-class music festivals like Lollapalooza to iconic sporting events such as the Chicago Marathon and the annual St. Patrick's Day Celebration, the Windy City pulls out all the stops. Whether you're here for music, sports, festivals, business or shopping, staying downtown puts you in the heart of the action. Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it all. Here’s your locally-curated complete guide to stylish yet affordable hotels, each under $300 per night, so you can experience Chicago’s best without breaking the bank.

Experiencing Opulence: Site Inspection of The St. Regis Chicago

Curated by
Sylvia Baldwin
Sweet Home Chicago! I recently had the privilege of conducting a site inspection at the illustrious St. Regis Chicago, and my experience was nothing short of exceptional. A brand new hotel in Chicago designed by the amazing Jeanne Gang. You are in for a treat when it comes to all of the spectacular design details. Enjoy the delicious Miru Restaurant and brand new Tre Dita Restaurant that is due to open 2024, which will be Chicago's newest restaurant hotspot with views like no other! My visit to the St. Regis Chicago was a testament to the art of hospitality at its finest. Whether for business or leisure, this iconic establishment sets the standard for luxury accommodations in the Windy City!
Suggested Fora Advisors
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Katie McAvoy
Destination daydreamer and family CEO (chauffeur, entertainment concierge and organizer) for three boys and a dog. I love Chicago, live music, books, pasta, nature and feelings of discovery.

Erica Christie
I am a meticulous researcher with a massive case of wanderlust. Let's work together to craft an authentic and fun adventure that feels perfectly personalized to you!

Alicia Anderson
Scuba diver. Airline miles collector. Planner of all things, when I'm not planning travel I'm also a wedding and event planner!

Katie Larsen
Travel-obsessed detailed planner who is always wanderlust. Adventure seeker who wants to stop worrying about the small things and enjoy the journey.

Sarah Collins
A Napa-based global wanderlust who loves fine dining.

Payton Brown
Hi, I'm Payton! I am originally from South Georgia and whenever I am not traveling far and wide, I reside in the heart of Atlanta. I have always been drawn to experiences and learning, which is why I have found passion in traveling. In the last five years, I have traveled domestically and internationally by plane, by car, by boat and have helped many people organize and plan their desired experiences. Some things I love when I travel: breweries, local foods, the city and destination excursions. I hope that some of my exposure to the world can help inspire you!

Christina Gales
I joined Fora to help busy, thoughtful travelers explore the world with clarity, care and confidence. Whether you're planning a European honeymoon, a family cruise or a restorative beach escape, I design personalized itineraries and provide concierge-level support every step of the way. When we work together, you’re not handed a generic package — you receive a trip designed just for you, with thoughtful recommendations, curated experiences and every detail handled with care. You get someone who listens deeply and plans with purpose. Someone who takes the overwhelm out of travel and replaces it with clarity, confidence and a sense of ease — so you can focus on being present, not piecing together logistics. Whether you’re planning a long-awaited celebration, a chance to reconnect with loved ones or a restorative escape just for you, I’m here to help you travel in a way that’s aligned with your goals, your style and your life.

Sylvia Baldwin
Every day is a good day to travel! Chicago-based travel globetrotter that enjoys travel magazines and honestly all things travel. In my free time I am making constant bucket list travel plans and working on checking them off!

MaryAlexa Divver
Beach, mountains, food and shopping – in no particular order. Lover of all things adventure, sun, snow and new experiences. Currently calling Brooklyn home.

Allison Schmitz
An Atlanta-based lover of all things travel, from the small regional airport to the five-star boutique hotel.

Courtney Carter
A curious traveler who isn't afraid of solo travel. Turndown service + ocean views = paradise to me!

Jordan Schack
I'm a luxury travel advisor with a deep love for design-forward hotels, slow travel and the kind of experiences that stay with you long after you've unpacked. My clients' journeys take them off the beaten path — from artisan studios in Kyoto to mobile camps in the Serengeti — all in search of beauty, meaning and connection. If you're interested in soulful stays, considered itineraries, cultural exploration and finding out what it means to travel well in a fast world, you're in the right place.