Chicago Gold Coast: A Business Traveler’s Guide

Nestled alongside picturesque Lake Michigan, this upscale Chicago neighborhood boasts a rich history, a vibrant dining scene, and world-class shopping. It is an ideal destination for business travelers looking to mix business with pleasure. Read more to learn everything business travelers need to know to navigate Chicago’s Gold Coast.

High Walkability/Public Transportation Options

Median Age is 45

Cityscape: Historic Architecture/Tree-line Street/High Rise Condominiums

Gold Coast weather:

Like most of Chicago, the Gold Coast experiences all four seasons — sometimes to the extreme.. 

Spring | March to May | 50s-70sF (10-15°C).

Tip: Grab an umbrella as afternoon showers can happen quickly.

Summer | June to August | 70s-90s°F (25-37°C) “Warm & Humid”

Fall | September to November | 40s-60s°F (20-5°C) “Mild Temps getting colder as you get closer to November”

Winter | December to February | 20s to 30s°F (-5 to 5°C) “Cold & Snowy”

Lake Effect: The Gold Coast’s proximity to Lake Michigan can influence its weather. Snow is very possible during the winter, especially in the northern parts of the area, so be sure to check your weather app for up-to-the-minute weather changes.

Due to the affluent nature of the Gold Coast, suits, ties, and formal business attire are recommended for all gender identities, unless you know the business culture to be different. 

Chicagoans are known for their professionalism and punctuality, so be sure to be on time or call ahead. Handshakes are the proper greeting at most business meetings. It is also customary to exchange business cards. Clear, direct, and concise communication is preferred, but don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you found something unclear or confusing.

USD is the currency in Chicago. Most locations accept all forms of payment (cash, debit, credit cards), although contactless payment is preferred.

Average food costs include (as of 2022):

• Inexpensive Meal $20
• Mid-range Meal for Two People $82
• Domestic Beer $7
• Cappuccino $5.23
• Soda $2.63
• Water $2.24
• Average cost of goods in the Gold Coast is more expensive than other areas of Chicago due to its affluent nature.

Chicago, like any major city, has its own set of social and cultural etiquette rules. Here are some general etiquette standards to keep in mind when traveling to Chicago.

The Gold Coast is generally considered safe, especially in comparison to some other neighborhoods in the city. Again, due to the affluence and upscale area, along with its significant residential and tourist presence, the Gold Coast is considered one of the safer areas of greater Chicago. 

That said, it’s essential to take precautions to minimize your risk. Just like any major city, it’s advisable to research specific areas you plan to visit and take appropriate safety measures and follow our Chicago Traveler Safety Tips. 

Chicago is served by two major airports, O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). The choice of airport often depends on your travel plans, destination, and proximity to your desired areas in Chicago or the suburbs.

O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Located in the northwestern part of Chicago, approximately 17 miles (27 kilometers) from downtown Chicago.

• O’Hare primarily serves the northern, northwestern, and western areas of Chicago, as well as the surrounding suburbs.
• International Flights: O’Hare is one of the busiest international airports in the United States and offers numerous international flights to destinations around the world.
• Transportation: O’Hare is well-connected to downtown Chicago and the suburbs via the ‘L’ train system (the Blue Line), taxis, shuttles, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

Midway International Airport (MDW)

Midway International Airport is situated on the southwest side of Chicago, approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) from downtown Chicago. While it does offer some international flights, Midway is known for its domestic routes within the U.S.

• Midway primarily serves the southern and southwestern areas of Chicago, as well as nearby neighborhoods and suburbs.
• Transportation: Midway is accessible from downtown Chicago and surrounding areas via the ‘L’ train system (the Orange Line), taxis, shuttles, and rideshare services.

To efficiently use public transit in Gold Coast and its surrounding areas, start by obtaining a Ventra Card, a reusable contactless fare card, which can be used on buses and trains. Using the Ventra app or website, business travelers can access schedules, maps, and real-time updates for a seamless and cost-effective way to explore the Gold Coast and its surrounding areas, including both O’Hare and Midway airports.

The ‘L’ train system (including the Red, Blue, Green, Orange, Pink, Brown, and Purple Lines) is the backbone of public transportation within the city. Additionally, the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) buses complement the ‘L’ system, covering various routes.

Red Line: The Red Line is the closest ‘L’ train line to the Gold Coast. You can take the Red Line and get off at the Clark/Division station, which is located in or very close to the Gold Coast. From there, you can easily walk to your central locations within the Gold Coast.

Brown Line: The Brown Line also serves the Gold Coast. You can take the Brown Line and get off at the Sedgwick station, which is also within walking distance of the Gold Coast.

Many buses also serve the Gold Coast. Check out the Central Transit Authority’s website for up to date bus and train schedules.