Maps
The Chicago Transit Authority has provided detailed, printable maps that include train and bus routes around the city. You can find the set of maps here and a more specific map of the Loop here. Please note that the Hilton Chicago Hotel is located at 720 South Michigan Avenue, between Balbo and 8th Street.
Weather
Chicago’s weather in August tends to range between 65° Fahrenheit in the evenings and 85° Fahrenheit at mid-day. Of course, these are past estimates and any one year may vary. The daily weather tends to be sunny during August, with brief showers possible. We recommend bringing layers of clothing, as well as waterproofing spells or their Muggle equivalent.
To get up-to-the-minute weather information on Chicago, please use this tool:
Traveling Around Chicago
Chicago has an extensive train system known as the Elevated, or the “El.” The Loop, the downtown area that includes the Hilton Chicago Hotel, was named for the loop that many of the El trains make just south of the Chicago River. A map of the entire area train system is located here, and a map of the more concentrated Loop area is located here.
Chicago also boasts an extensive bus system. You can find more information about the bus schedules here.
The cost of riding the El or the bus depends on how you pay for your trip. Please note that these prices may no longer be current by the time of the conference.
Chicago Card and Chicago Card Plus: Full fare is $1.75; transfer for 25 cents. Transfers allow two additional rides within two hours after the first boarding. If you’ll be using the train frequently, Chicago Card and Chicago Card Plus customers get a 10 percent ($2.00) bonus for each $20 of value added.
Transit Card: $1.75 on buses; $2.00 at rail stations; transfer for 25 cents. Transfers allow two additional rides within two hours after the first boarding.
Cash: $2 per ride on bus and rail; exact fare only; no change returned. No transfers issued when paying with cash.
