https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/tags/tag/chicago tourism/ Chicago Tourism News en Breaking Travel News Copyright 2026 2026-04-19T09:21:25+00:00 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-announces-new-starting-point-for-historic-route-66-at-navy-pier/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-announces-new-starting-point-for-historic-route-66-at-navy-pier/ In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Route 66, the City of Chicago will formally recognize Navy Pier as the starting point of the iconic roadway. “This move symbolizes how Route 66 continues to evolve while honoring its roots,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “From the shores of Lake Michigan to the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Route 66 represents the ultimate American journey.” The dedication ceremony celebrating the new starting point of Route 66 and its enduring role in American history, culture, and adventure will take place on March 25, 2026. Sun, 15 Feb 2026 08:30:16 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/choose-chicago-launches-new-community-driven-marketing-campaign-to-amplify/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/choose-chicago-launches-new-community-driven-marketing-campaign-to-amplify/ Choose Chicago today announced the global launch of a new marketing campaign to position Chicago as a premier global destination for leisure travel, meetings, and events. The new “Never Done. Never Outdone.” campaign was informed and influenced by a year-plus long brand strategy effort consisting of over 300 community and industry listening sessions, focus groups, sentiment surveys, social listening research, and brand showcases. Tue, 17 Jun 2025 06:31:28 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/why-illinois-remains-the-go-to-destination-for-architecture-enthusiasts/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/why-illinois-remains-the-go-to-destination-for-architecture-enthusiasts/ As Frank Lloyd Wright’s birthday on the 8th of June approaches, Illinois is stepping into the spotlight as the premier destination for architectural tourism. From its iconic skyscrapers in Chicago to a trail of architectural masterpieces across the state, Illinois offers an unmatched journey through architectural history and innovation. With growing interest from design-savvy travellers, Illinois is set to inspire visitors with its rich architectural heritage and vibrant creative culture. Mon, 09 Jun 2025 06:13:40 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/top-spots-in-illinois-for-an-autumn-colours-road-trip/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/top-spots-in-illinois-for-an-autumn-colours-road-trip/ Enjoy Illinois’ Autumn Trip Planner and Fall Colour Report is now live, showcasing the best places across Illinois to see the brilliant colours flourish as the seasons change. Embark on an unforgettable road trip along Illinois’ seven scenic byways, stopping to see the beauty of the State Parks, meeting the wonderful makers from the Illinois Made program, and staying in some unique accommodations along the way. Wed, 25 Sep 2024 05:40:21 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/new-female-leadership-for-choose-chicago/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/new-female-leadership-for-choose-chicago/ Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Choose Chicago have announced that Lynn Osmond will take up the role of chief executive of Choose Chicago. Osmond becomes the first woman to hold the role. Thu, 17 Mar 2022 16:41:34 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/routes-americas-to-return-to-chicago-next-year/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/routes-americas-to-return-to-chicago-next-year/ Routes Americas, which is held in a different location each year, brings together airlines, airports and tourism authorities to discuss air service strategy and future networks. Sun, 20 Feb 2022 04:22:08 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/marriott-signs-for-st.-regis-property-in-chicago/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/marriott-signs-for-st.-regis-property-in-chicago/ Marriott International has signed an agreement with Magellan Development Group to introduce its St. Regis Hotels & Resorts brand to Chicago. The project is anticipated to include 191 hotel rooms. Fri, 27 Nov 2020 09:21:12 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/the-hoxton-chicago-welcomes-first-guests-in-united-states/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/the-hoxton-chicago-welcomes-first-guests-in-united-states/ Taking its place as the seventh hotel in the now global series, the hotel boasts 182 rooms, three distinct dining and drinking destinations. Wed, 03 Apr 2019 06:24:38 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-sets-new-tourism-records-in-2018/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-sets-new-tourism-records-in-2018/ Mayor Rahm Emanuel has announced Chicago welcomed over 57.6 million visitors in 2018 - a growth of 4.3 per cent over the previous year, resulting in a new tourism record. Fri, 18 Jan 2019 10:19:55 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/hilton-unveils-first-ever-tri-branded-property-in-chicago/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/hilton-unveils-first-ever-tri-branded-property-in-chicago/ Hilton has announced the opening of its first tri-branded property, which includes Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place, Hampton Inn by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place and Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place. Thu, 09 Aug 2018 07:55:46 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/mice-focus-drives-up-visitor-figures-for-chicago/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/mice-focus-drives-up-visitor-figures-for-chicago/ Mayor Rahm Emanuel and David Whitaker, president of Choose Chicago, have announced Chicago reached record tourism levels in the first quarter of 2018. Tue, 24 Apr 2018 04:02:13 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-welcomes-55-million-visitors-in-2017/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-welcomes-55-million-visitors-in-2017/ Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Choose Chicago today announced that visitors to the city in 2017 reached 55.2 million – a new record and 2.5 per cent increase over the previous year. The increase of 1.4 million reaches the mayor’s ambitious goal of 55 million visitors annually – two years early. Fri, 26 Jan 2018 10:53:33 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-attracts-record-visitor-numbers-in-first-quarter/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-attracts-record-visitor-numbers-in-first-quarter/ Mayor Rahm Emanuel and David Whitaker, president of Choose Chicago, have announced projections of visitors to Chicago in the first quarter reached a record 10.51 million, an increase of 3.5 percent over first quarter 2016. Fri, 12 May 2017 13:41:01 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/mice-tourism-drives-record-chicago-visitor-numbers/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/mice-tourism-drives-record-chicago-visitor-numbers/ Mayor Rahm Emanuel has announced that visitors to Chicago in 2016 reached 54.1 million – a new record and 2.9 percent increase over the previous year’s record performance. The increase of 1.5 million visitors moves the city closer to reaching the mayor’s goal of 55 million visitors. Sun, 08 Jan 2017 19:37:34 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/eva-air-to-launch-chicago-flights-in-november/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/eva-air-to-launch-chicago-flights-in-november/ Star Alliance member EVA Air has announced a brand new route, the third to be launched in 2016, further reinforcing its status as one of Asia’s most dynamic carriers. As of November 3rd, EVA Air will connect Taipei directly with Chicago on its latest-model, Wi-Fi equipped Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, making the ‘Windy City’ its eighth gateway into North America. Thu, 26 May 2016 09:06:15 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-tourism-continues-to-break-records/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-tourism-continues-to-break-records/ Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Don Welsh, president of Choose Chicago, have announced the city has set multiple tourism records for the summer 2014 travel season. For the first time, Chicago saw records across all key performance indicators – demand, occupancy, supply, average daily rate, revenue per available room and overall revenue. Mon, 06 Oct 2014 13:52:31 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/ohare-international-airport-reclaims-global-top-spot/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/ohare-international-airport-reclaims-global-top-spot/ Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced today that, for the first time since 2004, O’Hare International Airport has regained its status as the world’s busiest airport for flight operations. The announcement was made at the end of the World Routes 2014 convention, the largest and most prominent business-to-business aviation event where airlines and airports decide where to fly in the future, which was held at McCormick Place this week. Thu, 25 Sep 2014 10:21:14 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/lucas-selects-chicago-for-new-museum/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/lucas-selects-chicago-for-new-museum/ Star Wars creator George Lucas has selected Chicago over Los Angeles and San Francisco as the future home of his collection of art and movie memorabilia. The museum will be called the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. Thu, 26 Jun 2014 15:59:40 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/new-chief-marketing-officer-for-choose-chicago/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/new-chief-marketing-officer-for-choose-chicago/ Choose Chicago president Don Welsh has announced the appointment of Shana Lee as the organisation’s chief marketing officer. Lee will be in charge of defining a sales and marketing strategy to further elevate the Chicago’s brand globally, with a mandate to capitalise on record leisure travel to Chicago and to infuse business travel strategies. Fri, 29 Nov 2013 10:31:47 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-president-releases-2013-budget-recommendations/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-president-releases-2013-budget-recommendations/ Chicago Transit Authority President Forrest Claypool today proposed a $1.39 billion budget for 2013 that maintains current service levels, freezes base fares, and calls for modest reductions in discounts for CTA passes to bring them in line with other major U.S. cities. Wed, 28 Nov 2012 06:00:22 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/oh-what-fun-it-is-to-ride-and-sing-on-the-cta-holiday-train/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/oh-what-fun-it-is-to-ride-and-sing-on-the-cta-holiday-train/ Dashing through the snow and over the rail lines they go, Santa and his reindeer began their annual visit to Chicago November 23, on the CTA Holiday Train—now in its 21st year. The CTA Holiday Train is a festive and one-of-a-kind tradition that’s unique to Chicago and is a fun way to enjoy the city during the holiday season. Wed, 28 Nov 2012 03:00:20 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cleaner-brighter-and-more-spacious-berwyn-red-line-station/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cleaner-brighter-and-more-spacious-berwyn-red-line-station/ Following a six-week temporary closure, a more spacious and revitalized Berwyn Red Line station was re-opened. Sat, 17 Nov 2012 06:00:35 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/5000-series-rail-cars-make-their-first-appearance-on-red-line/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/5000-series-rail-cars-make-their-first-appearance-on-red-line/ After successful debuts on the Pink Line and Green Lines, the new 5000-series rail cars were added to the Red Line. Fri, 16 Nov 2012 21:00:43 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-new-offerings-part-of-agencys-strategy-to-improve-customer-experience/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-new-offerings-part-of-agencys-strategy-to-improve-customer-experience/ The Chicago Transit Board today approved a plan to add 57 new automated teller machines to all eight CTA rail lines, increasing the number of ATMs for customers by 72 percent. In addition, the Board today approved five new leases that include a new produce shop, a new pastry shop and three newsstand locations at CTA rail stations, all of which will provide additional customer conveniences for CTA’s growing ridership and assist the agency in its ongoing efforts to increase non-farebox revenue. Thu, 01 Nov 2012 21:00:27 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/mayor-emanuel-hails-north-red-line-station-renewal-work-progress/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/mayor-emanuel-hails-north-red-line-station-renewal-work-progress/ Mayor Rahm Emanuel and CTA President Forrest Claypool officially welcomed community members to the newly rehabilitated Argyle Red Line station, which recently reopened following a six-week closure to allow crews to perform approximately $10.1 million in much-needed maintenance and capital improvement work to the 91-year-old facility. Thu, 11 Oct 2012 21:00:17 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-introduces-ventra-cta-and-paces-new-way-to-pay/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-introduces-ventra-cta-and-paces-new-way-to-pay/ The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Pace unveiled Ventra™, a new fare payment system that will provide CTA and Pace customers with a new and more convenient way to pay for train and bus rides. Fri, 05 Oct 2012 03:00:44 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-hotel-prices-spike-ahead-of-the-ryder-cup/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-hotel-prices-spike-ahead-of-the-ryder-cup/ Hotel prices around the Medinah Country Club in the suburbs of Chicago have spiked significantly ahead of the Ryder Cup this weekend. The annual golf competition – which sees the finest American players take on those of Europe – has made affordable hotel rooms difficult to come by, according to a new survey by ChicagoHotels.org. Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:00:04 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-awards-contract-for-red-line-south-reconstruction/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-awards-contract-for-red-line-south-reconstruction/ Chicago Transit Board approved the award of a contract for the Red Line South reconstruction, one of the largest reconstruction projects in the CTA’s history and a multimillion-dollar investment in both Chicago’s South Side and the backbone of the CTA rail system. Tue, 25 Sep 2012 00:00:22 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-adds-service-to-6-rail-lines-to-shorten-travel-times/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-adds-service-to-6-rail-lines-to-shorten-travel-times/ The Chicago Transit Board today approved a wide-ranging plan that will add bus and train service to high-demand routes across the entire city, reducing uncomfortable crowding and helping meet growing ridership demand. Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:40 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-and-cps-announce-free-fare-card-pilot-program/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-and-cps-announce-free-fare-card-pilot-program/ Mayor Emanuel today announced a new Free Fare Card Pilot program for students in five Chicago public high schools. Sun, 02 Sep 2012 06:00:35 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-announces-initiative-to-improve-rider-experience-and-shorten-travel-tim/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-announces-initiative-to-improve-rider-experience-and-shorten-travel-tim/ In a major initiative to reduce uncomfortable crowding and meet growing ridership, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is adding bus and train service to high-demand routes across the entire CTA network. Sat, 01 Sep 2012 06:00:02 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-announce-16-consecutive-months-of-cta-ridership-growth/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-announce-16-consecutive-months-of-cta-ridership-growth/ Mayor Emanuel and CTA President Forrest Claypool announced today that ridership on the Chicago Transit Authority continued its upward trend in the first six months of 2012—with June marking the 16th consecutive month of ridership increases. Thu, 23 Aug 2012 06:00:31 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/new-color-display-feature-added-to-5000-series-rail-cars/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/new-color-display-feature-added-to-5000-series-rail-cars/ CTA’s newest rail cars now feature new LED display signs in colors corresponding to the transit system’s eight rail lines—another amenity to benefit customers. Thu, 16 Aug 2012 21:00:21 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-adds-track-and-viaduct-work-to-north-red-station-project/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-adds-track-and-viaduct-work-to-north-red-station-project/ In an effort to reduce future expenses and avoid additional impacts to rail service, the Chicago Transit Board approved an amendment to the existing design/build contract for the North Red Line station improvement project. Thu, 16 Aug 2012 03:00:14 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/spa-and-deca-restaurant-partner-for-spa-and-savour-retreat/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/spa-and-deca-restaurant-partner-for-spa-and-savour-retreat/ Dine and un"wine” at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago (A Four Seasons Hotel), where deca RESTAURANT and the Spa have partnered for wine down Wednesdays and farm to table facials. Sat, 04 Aug 2012 19:00:47 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/majestic-hotel-chicago-hotel-unveils-new-independent-web-site/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/majestic-hotel-chicago-hotel-unveils-new-independent-web-site/ The Majestic Hotel Chicago recently announced the launch of their new independent web site. Tue, 24 Jul 2012 20:00:45 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/four-seasons-chicago-welcomes-new-gm-and-new-hotel-manager/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/four-seasons-chicago-welcomes-new-gm-and-new-hotel-manager/ Michele Grosso returns to Chicago, and is joined by Michael Pedder. Tue, 08 May 2012 23:00:55 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-seeks-sponsors-for-holiday-train-and-other-assets/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-seeks-sponsors-for-holiday-train-and-other-assets/ The Chicago Transit Authority today, through its partner, IMG, issued Requests for Proposals for the naming rights to the CTA Holiday Train, New Year’s Eve Penny Rides, Free Rides for Chicago Public Schools students on the first day of school, and CTA Bus Tracker and Train Tracker. Sat, 31 Mar 2012 05:30:04 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-cultural-center-announces-spring-2012-exhibitions/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-cultural-center-announces-spring-2012-exhibitions/ The Chicago Cultural Center, opens three stunning exhibitions in its Michigan Avenue Galleries this spring, in addition to the continuation of the blockbuster exhibition Morbid Curiosity. Mon, 05 Mar 2012 02:30:12 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-board-approves-financial-advisors/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/cta-board-approves-financial-advisors/ Firms will seek new funding options to improve Red/Purple Lines. Fri, 24 Feb 2012 03:00:12 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/contractor-approved-for-rehabilitation-work-at-seven-red-line-stations/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/contractor-approved-for-rehabilitation-work-at-seven-red-line-stations/ Stations to receive a face-lift until rail line’s long-term plans are determined. Thu, 23 Feb 2012 18:00:19 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/artists-celebrate-chicagos-175th-birthday/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/artists-celebrate-chicagos-175th-birthday/ In anticipation of Chicago’s 175th Birthday on March 4, The Flag and Seal Revisited, a new component of the Pulled, Pressed & Printed, Chicago exhibition currently running at Expo 72, will feature artworks that riff on the Chicago flag and seal. Sat, 18 Feb 2012 20:30:04 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-a-dose-of-culture-nightlife-and-scenic-beauty-all-in-1-trip/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-a-dose-of-culture-nightlife-and-scenic-beauty-all-in-1-trip/ Spring is fast approaching! For a change of pace, take a break from busy beaches and costly cruises and set your sights on Chicago. The city will be in full bloom, and an array of indoor and outdoor events and attractions invite visitors to discover all that Chicago has to offer. Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:30:37 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-bumps-up-hotel-tax-to-raise-funds/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-bumps-up-hotel-tax-to-raise-funds/ Officials in the city of Chicago have increased by one percentage point the amount of tax City Hall takes from every hotel night recorded. With budget deficits topping political agendas around the world, Chicago coffers will now claim 4.5 per cent of the cost of every night spent in the city. Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:43:42 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-has-new-brand-and-marketing-strategies/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-has-new-brand-and-marketing-strategies/ The first true branding effort highlighting the City of Chicago as a global visitor destination was officially launched today by the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau (CCTB). Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:23 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-line-upgrade-package-announced/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-line-upgrade-package-announced/ State Capital Investment to create more than 2,700 Jobs, eliminate slow zones, repair tracks, improve stations on Red and Purple Lines. Thu, 10 Nov 2011 07:00:54 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-selects-hills-balfour-to-boost-uk-visitors/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-selects-hills-balfour-to-boost-uk-visitors/ The Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau has announced the selection of London based Hills Balfour to support the bureau’s tourism efforts in the United Kingdom. Also in the United States today, City.Mobi is celebrating the success of its new guide to Chicago. Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:15:37 +0000 https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-new-years-eve-party-with-joe-piscopo-at-germania-place-helps-kids-f/ https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/chicago-new-years-eve-party-with-joe-piscopo-at-germania-place-helps-kids-f/ Looking for a special way to celebrate New Year’s Eve while giving back to a good cause? Join Joe Piscopo in helping Kids Fight Cancer, a nonprofit organization that has been funding the Oncology Activity Center in Chicago’s Children’s Memorial Hospital since 1985. This unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration will be held on Dec. 31, 2009 at Germania Place, set in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast, just north of Division near Clark Street. The event is open to the public and tickets are now available. Thu, 31 Dec 2009 14:36:29 +0000