My Husband and I fly into Chicago from Austin for a one-night stop before flying out to our next destination. We were so lucky to find Michael's artsy cool hostel-style Airbnb. The location was perfect for our short visit. We could have stayed within a block of the address.
With the convenient location, we were able to take a 20min train ride from the airport and just a quick walk over a beautiful bridge, we were there! Michael met us at the door. He and his son haven been renovating the space on their own. Michael seems like a lot of fun, I wish I had more time to hang out with him. I'm sure he has some good stories and insight on Chicago.
His funky antique collection is totally our style. We loved the art on the walls! There were plants cascading down the staircase. Our room was bigger than I expected with an even larger walk in bathroom and shower that falls from the ceiling. We were next to the kitchen, which would have been nice if we had stayed longer.
We started with pizza at GINO's, which is also a Comedy Club and ended up at il Porcellino, both just a couple blocks from the Airbnb. We spent the evening walking through the city streets, admiring the architecture, parks, waterfront, the iconic fountain from the opening credits of "Married with Children", and there were endless spots to grab a drink and admire a fantastic Chicago view. The public art installations were accessible and very clean. There was a concert in Millennium Park, so be sure to check their events' schedule when you're planning your trip.
Everywhere we went felt safe. However, the later it got, there were some characters that approached us that made me think that I would not want to be out at night alone as a young woman... I lived 8 years in Brooklyn on my own, so I have some street smarts, and I'm not discouraging anyone to do their own thang... that's just how I felt.
I did feel very safe, comfortable, and taken care of... I hope you enjoy your stay with Michael!