Our venue is in Rosemont right beside O'Hare airport so we recommend staying close to there. Places like Rosemont, Des Plaines, and Northwest side of Chicago are closest. Other places close by: Wood Dale, Mount Prospect, Norwood Park, Harwood Heights, Jefferson Park, Edison Park, River Grove and Elmwood Park.
If you are coming for up to a week or more, we definitely recommend staying in an Airbnb. If you are only here for the weekend, or 3-4 days, a hotel would be okay. It's up to you - what suits you best.
Irish citizens will only need an ESTA Visa to travel to Chicago. Each person traveling needs their own Esta visa. You can fill it out online and it should be approved within a few hours. Print the visa and carry it with you incase they ask for it at customs. You will go through Customs and Border Protection in Ireland before you board the plane. Here is a link to apply for the ESTA visa https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
We highly recommend downloading the Uber app. It is the easiest way to get around. Our venue is also right by the Blue Line Train, which brings you straight to Downtown Chicago. Fair for the Blue Line is $2.25 one way. The Metra Train can also bring you Downtown, and is more accessible in the suburbs, but only stops at Union station downtown.
We recommend bringing some cash. Revolut is a great app to download to electronically exchange money over, and it has tap to pay available. When making purchases in Chicago, remember that taxes are not included so expect additional charges at checkout.
It is customary in Chicago to tip about 18-20% at restaurants and bars, and 15-20% for Ubers and taxis.
It is not necessary, but if you do, remember that you will be driving on the opposite side of the road and on the opposite side of the car!
Formal or cocktail attire is recommended.