How to Find the Best Parking Spot in Chicago

Chicago is a bustling city, so it’s no surprise finding the best parking spot can be tough. With an estimated population of nearly three million people, all fighting for the same few parking spots, it can be a struggle. However, finding the right spot doesn’t have to be an impossible task.

To get the best spot, preparation is key. The earlier you plan and book your spot, the better. Thankfully, there are lots of apps and websites that make it easier than ever to find the perfect place to park your car. With a few clicks on your phone, you can find great spots at the best rates.

Best Chicago Parking Apps and Websites

Whether you’re looking for a long-term spot or just need something for the day, here are the five best apps and websites for finding parking in Chicago:

1. SpotHero – SpotHero is one of the most popular options for finding and reserving parking in Chicago. It offers a wide number of spots, both short- and long-term, in multiple neighborhoods across the city. Plus, they offer exclusive discounts when you book spots in advance.

2. ParkChicago – Forget about cash and coins—ParkChicago offers a convenient way to pay for your spot via the app. You can even add time to your meter remotely and get a notification when your time is close to running out.

3. Parking Panda – Parking Panda lets you compare prices and reserve a space ahead of time. This is especially useful during events at Wrigley Field, where finding street parking can be tough on game days.

4. ParkMe – ParkMe offers both short-and long-term parking spots in the city of Chicago and all its surrounding suburbs. They also have parking lots at Chicago O’Hare Airport, making it easier for travelers to find a spot close by.

5. BestParking – As its name suggests, BestParking is one of the best apps for finding parking spots in Chicago – and it’s free! You can compare different lots for the best rates, then reserve a spot ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out.

Tips for Finding the Best Spot

Once you’ve found a spot with one of the above apps, there are still a few tips to keep in mind to make sure you get the best location:

• Check the opening times — parking lots and garages typically charge extra for longer stays.
• Check how well lit the location is or if it’s close to shopping centers or bars.
• Look at reviews of nearby lots to make sure they’re clean and secure.

Your car is a big investment, so it’s important to do your homework and make sure you’re getting the best spot at the best price. With the help of reservation apps like SpotHero, ParkChicago, Parking Panda, ParkMe, and BestParking, you can easily find the perfect location for your car. And with these tips in mind, you can rest assured that your car is safe and secure for however long you need it to be there.

Insider’s Guide to Chicago: Finding the Best Parking Spot in the City

Chicago is one of the most visited cities in the United States, known for its beautiful architecture, stunning skyline, rich cultural experiences, iconic cuisine, and world-class museums. However, finding a good parking spot in the busy streets of Chicago can be daunting, especially if you’re driving or renting a car. In this insider’s guide, we’ll walk you through tips and tricks to finding the best parking spot in Chicago, as well as highlighting some must-see sights and delicious dining experiences to make your trip to Chicago unforgettable.

Familiarizing Yourself with Chicago’s Parking Rules

Before you hit the streets, familiarize yourself with Chicago’s parking regulations. The city has very strict parking laws, and parking violators are issued parking tickets ranging from $60 to $300. Some of the essential tips you should keep in mind include:

– Street cleaning: Make sure you check the signs indicating the days and times for street cleaning. Failing to move your car can earn you a costly ticket or even towed.
– Meters: Look out for parking meters. They have different rates depending on the location and time of day. Bring plenty of coins or cards with you to avoid getting ticketed.
– No-parking zones: Be aware of no-parking zones, especially during rush hour. Some areas have restricted zones for bikes, buses, or taxis. Make sure you double-check the signs before parking.

Finding Parking Spots in Chicago

Street parking in Chicago can be competitive, especially in the popular tourist areas. However, there are still many options for finding a good parking spot.

– ParkWhiz: ParkWhiz is an online platform for reserving guaranteed parking spots in Chicago and other major cities. It’s a great way to save time and effort looking for the right spot.
– Public garages: There are numerous city-run parking garages in Chicago. They offer rates that are generally less than metered parking on the street and can be a cost-effective option.
– Valet parking: If you’re staying in a hotel, they may offer valet parking services. Although it’s a bit more expensive, it can be worth it to get the guarantee of having a spot close to where you’re staying.

Exploring Chicago’s Must-See Attractions

A trip to Chicago would not be complete without a visit to some of its famous attractions.

– Millennium Park: Millennium Park is synonymous with Chicago. This 24.5-acre park is home to the iconic Cloud Gate, a.k.a. “The Bean.” You can also enjoy free outdoor concerts, events, and exhibitions throughout the year.
– Navy Pier: Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s top tourist destinations. It offers visitors a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences, as well as stunning views of Lake Michigan.
– Art Institute of Chicago: The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country. It’s home to the famous painting, “American Gothic,” as well as thousands of other works from around the world.

Tasting Chicago’s Iconic Cuisine

Chicago is also known for its delicious and iconic cuisine.

– Deep dish pizza: Chicago is the home of the deep-dish pizza, a pizza that packs a punch with toppings galore and a thick crust that’s baked to perfection. Some of the city’s famous pizzerias include Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s.
– Hot dogs: Chicago-style hot dogs are famous worldwide and can be found in a multitude of street vendors around the city. The classic recipe includes a poppy-seed bun, a beef hot dog, onions, relish, mustard, pickles, and peppers.
– Italian beef sandwich: Another iconic Chicago delicacy is the Italian beef sandwich. Thinly sliced beef, slow-roasted with spices, and served on a Italian roll, it’s a must-try when in the city.

Experiencing Chicago’s Cultural Attractions

Chicago has a rich cultural scene with many attractions worth visiting.

– The Chicago Theatre: The Chicago Theatre is a magnificent theatre building dating back to 1921. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in music, comedy, or performing arts.
– The Field Museum: The Field Museum is a natural history museum that is home to famous exhibits, such as Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton discovered to date.
– Museum of Contemporary Art: The Museum of Contemporary Art features works of art from emerging and established artists from around the world.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have some extra time, there are a few hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations worth exploring.

– The 606: The 606 is an elevated trail that runs through four Chicago neighborhoods. It’s a great spot to try your hand at running or cycling while enjoying the city’s greenery and public art installations.
– Garfield Park Conservatory: The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest conservatories in the country, spanning over 12 acres. It features thousands of plant species from around the world and is a beautiful place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city.
– The Violet Hour: If you’re looking for a unique cocktail experience, make your way to The Violet Hour. It’s a speakeasy-style bar that features handcrafted cocktails in a dimly lit, stylish ambiance.

Conclusion

Chicago is a beautiful and exciting city that offers visitors endless possibilities, from world-class museums to iconic cuisine and stunning views. By familiarizing yourself with the city’s parking rules, finding parking spots, exploring its must-see attractions, tasting its iconic cuisine, experiencing its cultural attractions, and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, you’re sure to have a trip to remember.