Travel

Travel Note

Travel & Lodging Logistics

We recommend giving yourself ample time for travel and maneuvering through the city during this busy time. Arrive in the city on Friday July 31st (keep in mind, between 11:00am and 3:00pm will be the highest traffic hours as people arrive for the festival that day.) The ceremony takes place Saturday morning, with the festival to follow from 11:00am until 10:30pm. Leaving the city on Sunday morning if you are not planning to stay for the festival another day is the best exit plan. Following this guide, lodging and travel from July 31 - August 2 is the best plan for cost, time and sanity.

Train

Southshore Line

We recommend our travelers from West Michigan taking this train in Michigan City. Leave your car at the Carroll Ave station for free and ride into downtown. This the most inexpensive route, and will drop you off just a few short blocks from Grant Park - VanBuren St or Millenium Station. Attempting to park downtown Chicago is expensive, staying close to Grant Park and taking a train is ideal.

Hotel

Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago

This hotel is our base camp in Chicago. It is across the street from Grant Park, a short walk to the train station and to the ceremony. If you are still looking for a hotel, consider this one or one near this location. Congress, Hilton, Essex, and many more are across the street. Another thing to keep in mind is that hotels and most lodging accommodations will be under extreme security measures during this weekend. Double check with where you are staying about their rules and regulations, they will be strictly enforced.