Lollapalooza 2012

When Lollapalooza was started twenty years ago, it was a touring festival with just one stage. It featured mostly alternative rock bands, the type of music that incite mosh pits and crowd surfing. This initial rock festival ran annually until 1997, and was brought back again in 2003; except for a brief hiatus again in 2004, when it was shutdown due to poor ticket sales. Despite the many ups and downs it faced through the years, Lolla exists today as a three-day festival featuring 130+ artists of diverse genres. In 2011, the sold-out event attracted a record number of 270,000 attendees, making Lolla the most populated festival in North America. This year, it debuted in Sao Paulo, Brazil, after a successful inaugural international appearance in Santiago, Chile. Located in Grant Park of downtown Chicago, festivalgoers get to experience a unique musical experience against the beautiful backdrop of the Chicago skyline.
Festival Line Up
The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jack White, Black Sabbath, The Black Keys, Florence + The Machine, At the Drive-In, Bassnectar, Avicii, The Shins, Justice, Passion Pit, Kaskade, The Weeknd, Sigur Ros, Bloc Party, Calvin Harris, Miike Snow, The Afghan Whigs, M83, Franz Ferdinand, Frank Ocean, Nero, J. Cole, Knife Party, Childish Gambino, Delta Spirit, Santigold, Metric, Zeds Dead, The Temper Trap, Wale, Big Gigantic, Die Antwoord, Dawes, Tune-Yards, Skream & Benga, The Head & the Heart, The Big Pink, Twin Shadow, The Tallest Man on Earth, Toro Y Moi, Little Dragon, Dr. Dog, Of Monsters And Men, Gary Clark Jr, Alabama Shakes, The Gaslight Anthem, SBTRKT, Amadou & Mariam, Porter Robinson, The Walkmen, Tame Impala, Sub Focus, Band of Skulls, JJ Grey & Mofro, Madeon, Neon Indian, Zedd, Dum Dum Girls, Paper Diamond, Washed Out, Aloe Blacc, Trampled by Turtles, Bear in Heaven, Blind Pilot, Chairlift, The Black Angels, Yellow Ostrich, GIVERS, Polica, Bombay Bicycle Club, Sharon Van Etten, White Rabbits, Doomtree, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, The Devil Makes Three, Oberhofer, Star Slinger, The War on Drugs, Michael Kiwanuka, O RAPPA, Bowerbirds, Orchard Lounge, Mona, The Growlers, Hey Rosetta!, Jeff the Brotherhood, Anamanaguchi, First Aid Kit, Wax, Fidlar, JC Brooks & The Uptown Sound, Milo Greene, Los Jaivas, Kopecky Family Band, The Jezabels, Nadastrom, LP, DJ Nihal, Yuna, The White Panda, Walk Off The Earth, Animal Kingdom, DEV, SALVA, The Sheepdogs, The Dunwells, DJ Mel, Empires, Kevin Devine, Dry the River, Helena, Haley Reinhart, Imaginary Cities, Overdoz, Ambassadors, DJ Zebo, thenewno2, Moon Taxi, Chancellor Warhol, Laura Warshauer, Red Oblivion, Kid Color
- How do I get to and from the festival?
- How do I get around during the event?
- What time does it start and end?
- Is reentry allowed?
- Are there any prohibited items?
- Can I bring outside food and/or drink?
- Will there be food sold at the event?
- Will there be alcohol sold at the event?
- What do I need to know about money?
- What will the weather be like?
- What should I wear?
- What should I bring?
- Anything else I need to know?
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How do I get to and from the festival?
Depending on your location, there are multiple ways to get to and from the festival. Both O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport are about 15 miles away from Grant Park. From the airports, you can take the elevated trains, subways, or busses to get you directly to the park. These services are available from numerous other Chicago locations as well; CLICK HERE for a map of stations and routes. Traveling from the suburbs? Check out the Metra Commuter Rail System for your most convenient route to the festival.
If you are driving, there is 24-hour parking available in four underground parking lots beneath the park as well as at Soldier Field's North Garage. If you want to be more economical and get a head start on meeting new people, you can use Zimride, a website that offers carpool services to specific destinations. Set up a profile, find people to carpool with, and share your journey to Lolla for cheaper!
For those who are close by and more eco-minded, ride your bike! There is a bike valet located on the southeast corner of Lakeshore and Monroe, and bike racks next to the Lollapalooza Box Office on Columbus Drive - just make sure to bring your own lock, because bike safety isn't guaranteed by the festival. Free and secure bike parking is also provided at the McDonald's Cycle Center in Millenium Park, which is just north of Grant Park. Want to bike but not from the area? Bike and Roll Chicago are here to help. They are offering discounts on bike rentals for Lollapalooza attendees. CLICK HERE to reserve your bike for 65% off.
If you are taking a taxi, the easiest location to get dropped off at is Michigan Avenue at Congress, so keep these cross streets in mind to tell your cab driver. From here, you can easily walk to the Box Office (located at S. Michigan Ave and E. Van Buren St.) and enter the festival at the Main Entrance (Michigan and Congress) or the North Entrance (Columbus and Monroe). -
How do I get around during the event?
Even though the venue is quite large, the only way to get around the park is to walk.
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What time does it start and end?
Lollapalooza starts at 11:30am and ends at 10pm on all three days.
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Is reentry allowed?
Reentry is allowed if you exchange your three-day ticket for a festival wristband, which must be worn all three days. Reentry is not allowed for people with single day tickets.
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Are there any prohibited items?
Weapons, explosives, illegal substances, large backpacks, glass containers, metal aerosol cans, skateboards, bikes, tents or chairs, hard sided coolers, animals, and professional recording/commercial equipment are not allowed in the festival grounds. Unauthorized vending is also prohibited.
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Can I bring outside food and/or drink?
You cannot bring outside food or drinks except two factory sealed, or empty, water bottles (up to 1 Liter per person).
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Will there be food sold at the event?
The Chow Town area at the festival has 30+ vendors selling top-notch local specialties for reasonable prices. There is also a Farmer's Market offering sustainable products grown by local farmers.
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Will there be alcohol sold at the event?
Beer and hard liquor will be sold at several vendors in the festival site.
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What do I need to know about money?
All the food vendors are cash-only, but there are ATMs throughout the venue if you are in need. All merchandise vendors and most of Green Street (selling art and eco-friendly products) accept credit cards. Expect to spend around $20-30 (not including alcohol) a day on a tight budget.
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What will the weather be like?
Since Lollapalooza occurs during the peak of summer, it will be hot and humid. With thousands dancing in a crowd, the extra body heat will add degrees to the already warm temperature of around 80-90°F (25-32°C). There will be some pockets of shade and air-conditioned tents, but be prepared to sweat.
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What should I wear?
Since temperatures will be high and you will be out all day, dress appropriately for hot weather. Shorts and a light t-shirt or tank top is probably your best bet. Also, wear a hat and sunglasses to block those UV rays. Wear comfortable closed-toed shoes to prepare yourself for a full day of walking and dancing, and prevent yourself from getting stepped on.
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What should I bring?
Since you will probably be buying some food and other items at Lolla, bring your debit card incase you need more cash. Bring a refillable water bottle so you can refill it at the CamelBak Filling Stations around the park. You should also bring some type of non-professional camera to document your time there. Last but not least, remember to bring sunscreen, and don't forget to reapply!
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Anything else I need to know?
There is more to do within the Lollapalooza festival grounds than watch your favorite artists. From autograph tents and cool-off lounges to playgrounds and playstation lofts, there are many fun-filled activities to keep you busy between sets.
CID Entertainment offers travel packages that include General Admission or VIP tickets, Lollapalooza apparel and merchandise, and three nights at a nearby hotel for varying prices. This is a great option for out-of-towners that want to make the most of their Lollapalooza experience.
There is also a Lollapalooza mobile application for people with an iPhone or Android. This app allows you to make your own customized schedule, use the festival map, browse and buy festival merchandise, and other services to make your experience that much better.
Wednesday, Aug 1, 2012
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Nelarusky: Benefit for the Special Olympics Chicago
Metro, 8pm
Alabama Shakes, First Aid Kit, Dry The River, Filligar. 18+ -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Lincoln Hall, 8pm
Delta Spirit, FIDLAR. 18+
Thursday, Aug 2, 2012
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Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
House of Blues, 8pm
Passion Pit, GIVERS, Kishi Bashi. 18+ -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Schubas, 9pm
1st Annual Fam Jam with Kids These Days plus special guests OverDoz & more. 21+. -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Lincoln Hall, 9pm
Dr. Dog w/ Kevin Devine, The Dunwells. 21+ -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
The Mid, 10pm
Zedd w/ Gus K, DJ Gordo, DJ Torio. Tickets $20. 21+
Friday, Aug 3, 2012
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Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Spy Bar, 10PM
M83 (DJ Set). 21+. -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Empty Bottle, 9pm
Bear in Heaven w/ YAWN. Tickets $15, 21+. -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
The Congress Theatre
NERO (DJ Set) w/ Die Antwoord, Anamanaguchi.Tickets $32, 18+ -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
House of Blues, 10pm
tUnE-yArDs w/ Washed Out. 17+ -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Subterranean. 10pm
Porter Robinson and Madeon. 21+
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Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Bottom Lounge, 10pm
Paper Diamond w/ Minnesota. Tickets $17.50, 17+ -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Metro, 11pm
Frank Ocean. 18+.
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Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Double Door, 11pm
The Black Angels w/ The Night Beats. Tickets $20, 21+. -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Schubas,11pm
The War on Drugs w/ Milo Greene. 21+ -

Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Lincoln Hall, 11pm
Blind Pilot w/ Kopecky Family Bands. Tickets $20, 21+.
Saturday, Aug 4, 2012
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Official Lollapalooza Aftershow
Aragon Ballroom, 10pm
Featuring Jane's Addiction, Franz Ferdinand, and Skream and Benga. 18+. Tickets go on sale for $15 on Friday, July 13 at 10am Central Time.
Eat
When it comes to food, Chicago is known for its vast range of choices and quality. Packed with a myriad of artisan bistros, renowned pizzerias, celebrity chefs, and five-star restaurants, you're guaranteed to find a satisfying meal. Since the city is easy to navigate, traveling from the festival, hotel, or an attraction to a restaurant you want to visit will not be difficult - just hop on the "L," a bus, or hail a taxi for a quick ride to your desired destination, and prepare to have a memorable meal.
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Lou Malnati’s
- 805 South State Street
- Chicago, IL 60605
- +1 (312) 786-1000
- www.loumalnatis.com
With kind and civic regards to both Gino’s East and Pizzeria Uno, Lou Malnati’s authors the city’s most delectable deep dish pie. A sweet, tangy, parmesan-freckled crushed tomato sauce artfully tops each pizza, pools of oozing mozzarella seeping forth underneath, walls of Paula Deen-level buttered crust containing the bubbling mass. Sausage is the optimal topping of choice here. Seasoned to perfection and molded into a single patty that covers the entire pie, nothing coalesces all of these flavors quite like Lou’s lean specialty blend. (This being Chicago, sausage also represents the most culturally-logical choice for a topping.) Malnati’s will be present at Chow Town, but for festivalgoers looking to escape Grant Park for a spell, there’s an outpost conveniently located just a few blocks west in the South Loop.
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Girl & the Goat
- 809 West Randolph Street
- Chicago, IL 60607
- +1 (312) 492-6262
- www.girlandthegoat.com
If you’re a Top Chef fan, you’re likely already in the know about season four winner Stephanie Izard’s West Loop haven. Its frequently rotating menu of locally-sourced, Mediterranean-inflected small plates -- divided along lines of vegetable, fish, and meat -- is sure to delight even the most die hard foodies with colorful and inventive juxtapositions like ham frites with smoked tomato aioli and cheddar beer sauce and squash blossom rangoon with crab, chive yogurt, and toasted almonds. Misleading monikers be damned, Girl & the Goat also dedicates a section of its menu to its namesake animal: goat liver mousse, confit goat belly, goat carpaccio, grilled goat loin; there are even goat legs available for pre-order! The dimly lit, wood-laden interior provides a nice, quaintly rustic accent to the experience.
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Al’s Beef
- 28 East Jackson Boulevard
- Chicago, IL 60604
- +1 (773) 477-4646
- www.alsbeef.com
A Chicago institution since 1968, Kingstone Mines is one of the city’s best venues for quintessential, unabashed blues consumption. Acoustic and electric acts rotate sets on two stages, keeping the music pumping steadily throughout the night. You’ll usually have to fork over $10 for admission, but the venue stays open until four in the morning (five on Saturdays) and so provides good bang for your buck. Naturally, their kitchen serves up some saucy BBQ to help sop up all the cheap beer flowing and complete the Delta experience. N.B. A student ID will get you in for free Sunday through Thursday, and admission into Kingston Mines will also get you in the door of its sister venue, B.L.U.E.S., located just down the street at 2519 North Halsted and offering, yes, live blues seven nights a week.
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Green Mill
- 4802 North Broadway Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60640
- +1 (773) 878-5552
- www.greenmilljazz.com
Yes, it’s a bit northward, a tidy trek from Lollapalooza’s Grant Park locales. But it’s a city landmark, a site of Historical Import, deserving of some kind of official, government-mandated preservation title, really. The Green Mill is not simply any old (formerly-) smoke-filled jazz club (formerly-) frequented by the likes of Al Capone. It’s a time machine to the 1940s, when a few cocktails and a healthy appreciation of jazz and all its permutations were the only ingredients necessary to enjoying a Night Out. The warmth of the art deco decor maintains the authentic feel, and whiling away a few gin-soaked hours in this uptown joint should be considered a must for any visitor. And don’t even think about talking during a performance as it will likely engender a few incisive stares and a hearty “Shh!” or two from the crowd.
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Cafecito
- 26 East Congress Parkway
- Chicago, IL 60605
- +1 (312) 922-2233
- www.cafecitochicago.com
Right next to Lollapalooza, this Cuban coffee house offers specialty sandwiches, salads, and coffee from Latin America, made to order with the freshest, all natural ingredients. Come to this cozy coffeehouse to enjoy one of the many pressed sandwiches, a platter served with rice, beans, and plantains, or a specialty salad for an extremely reasonable price. Their Cuban sandwich and Guava-Q (roasted pork or chicken, caramelized onions, guava BBQ sauce), and Ropa Vieja are supposed to be mouthwateringly delicious, so try one of these if you can't choose from their extensive menu.
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Perry's
- 180 North State Street
- Chicago, IL 60606
- +1 (312) 372-7557
- www.perrysdeli.com
For more than 29 years, this deli has served the city with hearty and delicious deli sandwiches. They are made fresh everyday with premium meats including corned beef, pastrami, succulent roast beef, turkey, and beef brisket slow-cooked in their kitchen then combined with homemade sauces and ingredients. Choose from their Signature Triple Decker sandwiches, "Old World" Deli sandwiches, salads, or breakfast sandwiches for a filling meal.
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Pizano's Pizza (North State Street)
- 864 North State Street
- Chicago, IL 60610
- +1 (312) 751-1766
- www.pizanoschicago.com
A trip to Chicago wouldn't be complete until you have the local specialty, Deep Dish Pizza. Pizano's serves impeccable pizzas, including both deep dish and thin crust. The pizza here is listed as top 10 in the nation by USA Today, and the thin crust pizza is one of Oprah's favorites. In addition to pizza, they also offer an extensive range of pasta, chicken dishes, sandwiches, and burgers. Expect to be befuddled when looking at their menu - it is overwhelming.
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Pizano's Pizza (East Madison Street)
- 61 East Madison Street
- Chicago, IL 60603
- +1 (312) 236-1777
- www.pizanoschicago.com
A trip to Chicago wouldn't be complete until you have the local specialty, Deep Dish Pizza. Pizano's serves impeccable pizzas, including both deep dish and thin crust. The pizza here is listed as top 10 in the nation by USA Today, and the thin crust pizza is one of Oprah's favorites. In addition to pizza, they also offer an extensive range of pasta, chicken dishes, sandwiches, and burgers. Expect to be befuddled when looking at their menu - it is overwhelming.
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Pizano's Pizza (North Dearborn Street)
- 800 North Dearborn Street
- Chicago, IL 60610
- +1 (312) 335-8833
- www.pizanoschicago.com
A trip to Chicago wouldn't be complete until you have the local specialty, Deep Dish Pizza. Pizano's serves impeccable pizzas, including both deep dish and thin crust. The pizza here is listed as top 10 in the nation by USA Today, and the thin crust pizza is one of Oprah's favorites. In addition to pizza, they also offer an extensive range of pasta, chicken dishes, sandwiches, and burgers. Expect to be befuddled when looking at their menu - it is overwhelming.
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Hot Doug's
- 3324 North California Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60618
- +1 (773) 279-9550
- www.hotdougs.com
Another local specialty, the Chicago hot dog, is something you should try when visiting Chicago. Hot Doug's offers just this, but even more - their menu lists around ten hot dogs each with a special twist. The Elvis, for example, comes with a Polish sausage, and The Joe Strummer is a vegetarian hot dog. For only $2-4 a pop, you can have a filling meal without having to hurt your wallet.
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Raw (at Chicago French Market)
- 131 North Clinton Street
- Chicago, IL 60606
- +1 (312) 831-2729
- www.chicagorawfood.com
For those of you who are vegetarians or vegans, this may be your go-to spot in CHicago. Serving raw foods in a creative, delicious manner, even non-vegetarians/vegans can enjoy the foods here with ease. Eat a mouthwatering meal and feel good about yourself afterwards.
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MK Restaurant
- 868 North Franklin Street
- Chicago, IL 60610
- +1 (312) 482-9179
- www.mkchicago.com
If you want to splurge for a high-quality, sit-down dinner, MK is an excellent choice. Michael Kornick, a renowned chef and restauranteur, promises to offer an unprecedented gastronomical experience with his cooking and décor of the restaurant. The modern flair of the space and classic American fare will provide you with an experience that will have you coming back for more.
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The Capital Grill
- 633 North St. Clair Street
- Chicago, IL 60611
- +1 (312) 337-9400
- www.thecapitalgrille.com
Another way to splurge is to visit this renowned steakhouse, located on the Magnificent Mile. Enjoy dry aged steaks and fresh seafood, as well as a myriad of other sides and specialties, paired with wine from the extensive wine list. Does Lobster Mac 'N' Cheese, Filet Mignon, Parmesan Truffle Fries, or Seared Citrus Glazed Salmon make your mouth water? Then head over to this restaurant and treat yourself to some quality food.
Sleep
When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of hotels in the city to choose from. Don't worry about being overwhelmed, we've suggested a couple of accommodations we think you'd like, from high-end luxury hotels to more economic living spaces, all conveniently located in the heart of Chicago and close to Millennium/Grant Park.
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The James Chicago
- 55 East Ontario Street
- Chicago, IL 60611
- +1 (312) 337-1000
- www.jameshotels.com/Chicago.aspx
The James is Chicago's most celebrated boutique hotels, balancing a timeless modern design with a warm and cozy feel. The James is conveniently located near Michigan Avenue, a short walk to Grant Park and other local attractions. We hear they have the most comfy beds of all Chicago hotels, perfect after a long day at Lolla.
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InterContinental Chicago
- 505 North Michigan Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60611
- +1 (312) 944-4100
- www.icchicagohotel.com
InterContinental Chicago is the only downtown Chicago hotel with a front entrance on the Magnificent Mile, on Michigan Avenue. Located just moments away from the trolley, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and numerous area attractions, the InterContinental creates a luxurious atmosphere by blending old-world elegance and modern sophistication. Be sure to ask the concierge about the self-guided iPod tour of the property -- it's an open secret that's worth taking advantage of.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW TRAVEL PACKAGES FROM CID ENTERTAINMENT -

JW Marriott Chicago
- 151 West Adams Street
- Chicago, IL 60603
- +1 (312) 660-8200
- www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/chijw-jw-marriott-chicago/
The JW Marriot is a landmark in Chicago's financial district. The luxurious and majestic lobby is a destination in itself, and the rooms are modern, comfortable, and quiet, despite the downtown location. It's located in The Loop, so it's a convenient location when it comes to transportation. The staff is extremely attentive and helpful -- the Chicago location recently won 'JW Hotel of the Year' at the 2012 Global General Managers Conference, recognized as the top JW hotel for service, guest experience and financial success.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW TRAVEL PACKAGES FROM CID ENTERTAINMENT -

Hotel Palomar Chicago
- 5 North State Street
- Chicago, IL 60654
- +1 (312) 755-9703
- www.hotelpalomar-chicago.com
Hotel Palomar is a boutique hotel with a warm and sophisticated atmosphere that celebrates the arts. They have a gorgeous indoor pool and a sundeck, perfect for hanging out with other cool Lollapalooza attendees. The Hotel Palomar is eco-friendly and pet-friendly -- there are no fees or size restrictions when it comes to your furry friends. They offer complimentary morning coffee and tea service in the lobby, complimentary internet when you join their loyalty program, and a hosted evening wine hour. This is a hip and modern hotel that offers everything you’ll need to feel pampered after a long day of dancing.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW TRAVEL PACKAGES FROM CID ENTERTAINMENT -

Hyatt Regency Chicago
- 151 East Wacker Drive
- Chicago, IL 60601
- +1 (312) 565-1234
- www.chicagoregency.hyatt.com
Located in the epicenter of the city, this hotel is within walking distance to the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and Grant Park. With spacious clean rooms, your stay at this hotel will no doubt be a comfortable one. Check out Stetson's Chop House for delicious steak, or sip cocktails while enjoying stunning views of downtown Chicago at BIG Bar. Amenities: Business/meeting rooms, 24-hour Room Service, Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services, Hertz Car Rental On-Site, 24-Hour Fitness Center, Spa, Restaurant, Bar.
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Hampton Majestic Chicago Theatre District
- 22 West Monroe Street
- Chicago, IL 60603
- +1 (312) 332-5052
- www.hamptonmajestic.com
This boutique style hotel combines the historic Chicago feel with some contemporary flair to create a unique atmosphere for guests. Located in the center of the Chicago Theater District, it is walking distance to State Street shopping, Millennium Park, Willis Tower, and more. This hotel is also within two blocks of CTA train stations for convenient access to attractions and airports. Amenities: Complimentary Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour Fitness Center, 24-Hour Business Center.
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Hostelling International Chicago
- 24 East Congress Parkway
- Chicago, IL 60605
- +1 (312) 360-0300
- www.hichicago.org
For a more economical option, staying at this hostel may be your best bet. Due to its location in the center of Chicago, most attractions are within walking distance. The Hostel also offers free walking tours and excursions throughout the city. Past guests have raved about the friendly staff, cozy environment, and the superb location. In 2006, 2007, and 2009, this hostel won the Best Large Hostel in the World! Amenities: Free Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi in Lobby.
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theWit Chicago - A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
- 201 North State Street
- Chicago, IL 60601
- +1 (312) 467-0200
- www.thewithotel.com
Stay at the newest boutique hotel in downtown Chicago for a stylish, luxurious experience. The glamorous rooms combined with top-notch amenities provide you with an unprecedented stay in the heart of the city. For a longer stay, you can room in one of the unique suites, which come equipped with a kitchen and elite amenities. Check out the trendy restaurants, the 27th floor indoor/outdoor lounge, the multimedia theater, and the Spa that is famous for their Signature Massage. Amenities: 24-hour Fitness Center, Yoga Studio, Business Center, Free Wi-Fi on 1st and 2nd Floor, Spa, Lounge, Multimedia Theater, Restaurants.
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Hotel Allegro Chicago
- 171 West Randolph Street
- Chicago, IL 60601
- +1 (312) 236-0123
- www.allegrochicago.com
Combining historic glamor with contemporary services, this boutique hotel will give you luxury, comfort, and hospitality during your stay. Be sure to check out the daily wine hour from 5-6pm in the hotel lobby to enjoy some quality wine. Located right next to the Cadillac Palace Theater, and minutes from quality shopping and Millennium Park, this hotel is perfect for those who want to explore the sprawling city. This hotel is also pet friendly! Amenities: 24-hour Fitness Center, Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services, 24-hour Business Center, Pet-Friendly, Daily Wine Hour.
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Comfort Suites Michigan Avenue
- 320 North Michigan Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60601
- +1 (312) 384-1208
- www.comfortsuiteschicago.com
For those who want a more spacious living accommodation, Comfort Suites may be the place for you. Nearly twice the size of a typical hotel room at a lower price, the rooms at this accommodation have washer/dryers and full kitchens equipped with a coffee maker, stove, microwave, and a refrigerator. The comfortable and spacious living space will definitely make you want to come back. Amenities: Free High-Speed Internet Access, Complimentary Breakfast, Fitness Center, Business Center.
Shop
Chicago has a long-standing reputation for being one of the country's premiere shopping destinations. The city offers a diverse variety of shopping scenes and neighborhoods. Downtown Chicago, which includes the famed Loop and State Street, is the city's main commercial district and is home to many large national retailers' flagship stores. But perhaps the city's most popular shopping scene is on North Michigan Avenue along the "Magnificent Mile," where fashionistas and shopaholics are drawn by the area's high end designers and upscale department stores. Shop along Belmont Street for edgier, funkier apparel or follow Halsted Street into Boystown for chic boutiques, trendy fashion outlets, and specialty stores. Popular amongst artists and creative professionals, the Bucktown-Wickerpark neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of boutiques, vintage shops, and retailers with a more creative edge.
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Green Street Market
- Lollapalooza Festival Grounds
- Chicago, IL 60601
- www.lollapalooza.com/experience/green-street
Green Street, Lollapalooza's earth-friendly art fair and vendor mall, is a great place to browse for green goods between sets. The booths and kiosks on Green Street feature merchandisers dedicated to using business practices aimed toward bettering the planet, whether it be through fair trade worker agreements, using sustainable manufacturing practices, using recycled or eco-friendly materials, or donating to charitable and nonprofit causes.
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Lollapalooza General Store
- Lollapalooza Festival Grounds
- Chicago, IL 60601
Don't expect to find anything thrilling here, but in case you need something essential like a poncho or sunscreen, the Lolla General Store's has you covered. To visit the General Store, check the <"http://www.lollapalooza.com/experience/festival-map/"target="_blank">Lollapalooza Festival Map for the location.
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Macy's
- 111 North State Street
- Chicago, IL 60602
- +1 (312) 718-1000
- www.visitmacyschicago.com
The historic Macy's on State Street isn't just a department store, it's a landmark. The building once belonged to the historic Marshall Field & Company, one of the country's most successful and luxurious department store owners during the late nineteenth century. Today, it is still one of the largest department stores in the world. Its impressive design and opulent interior make it a popular tourist destination for history nuts, architecture lovers, shoppers, and tourists alike. The Visitor's Center lends out free audio sets to visitors interested in taking self-guided tours of the building.
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The Water Tower Place
- 835 North Michigan Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60611
- +1 (312) 440-3166
- www.shopwatertower.com
Located at the base of the Water Tower Place skyscraper on Chicago's Magnificent Mile, this eight-level shopping mall includes over 100 popular retail stores, restaurants, and eateries. While many of the stores on Mag Mile are designer label stores and haute couture retailers, the Water Tower Place is an excellent place to go for those looking for retailers more in the mid-price range.
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Reckless Records
- 26 East Madison Street
- Chicago, IL 60602
- +1 (312) 4795-0878
- www.reckless.com
This vintage record store is located just outside of the South Michigan Avenue festival entrance and is the perfect place for serving all of your media needs. In addition to having a wide selection of books, DVDs, CDs, and video games, the store has a large collection of vintage records, vinyl LPs, and cheap used CDs. The downtown location on Madison Street is close to many other great shops so once you're done browsing through their wide selection of music, head west into the Loop and check out Chicago's main commercial district. In addition to the Madison Street location, Reckless Records also has two other locations in the trendy neighborhoods of Wicker Park and Lakeview.
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Brown Elephant Resale Shop
- 3651 North Halsted Street
- Chicago, IL 60613
- +1 (773) 549-5943
- www.brownelephant.com
This quirky resale store is a favorite among thrifty Chicago locals. All of the merchandise is donated and the profits generated from the sales go to funding services through the Howard Brown Health Center.
Party
From swanky cocktail lounges to grungy music halls, Chi-town has plenty of fun places to go when the sun goes down. During the weekend of Lollapalooza, many clubs and concert venues open their doors for after parties and post-festival events. To see a full list of Official Lollapalooza After shows, visit www.do312.com/lollaaftershows or check out our event listing guide.
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Smart Bar
- 3730 North Clark Street
- Chicago, IL 60613
- +1 (773) 549-0203
- www.smartbarchicago.com
Located in the same building as the popular Metro concert hall, Smart Bar is a venue dedicated to showcasing newly emerging genres of music, cutting edge DJs and upcoming experimental artists. The venue's first rate sound system, spacious dance floor, and recently renovated interior make it a premiere destination for catching live house and electronic acts. On weekends, Smart Bar stays open until 4 or 5am, so you can literally dance the night away.
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Empty Bottle
- 1035 North Western Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60622
- +1 (773) 276-3600
- www.emptybottle.com
Although it may look modest from the outside, this little dive has built quite a loyal following. Its good musicians, friendly, laid-back vibe, and crazy cheap cover and drinks have built it a reputation for being a great place to enjoy live music in an intimate atmosphere.
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Double Door
- 1572 North Milwaukee Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60622
- +1 (773) 489-3160
- www.doubledoor.com
This gritty dance hall and live music venue is proclaimed by many Chicago locals to be a great place to see emerging artists of all genres. The venue offers a main floor with a full service bar as well as a balcony and a downstairs level with a second bar, pinball machines, and pool tables where guests can hang out between sets. The Double Door books an eclectic variety of musicians and performers and usually holds after parties during the weekend of Lollapalooza.
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Reggie's Music Joint and Rock Club
- 2105 South State Street
- Chicago, IL 60616
- +1 (312) 949-0120
- www.reggieslive.com/musicjoint
For those looking for a more laid back scene, Reggie's Music Joint is an excellent place to kick back on a rooftop deck or patio on a warm summer night. With nightly live music and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, Reggie's Music Joint provides a comfortable place to enjoy a post-festival late-night meal and try a few of the bar's 70 different types of beers. In addition to the Music Joint, Reggie's also owns the next-door Rock Club, a full-fledged concert hall that hosts some larger shows.
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The Mid
- 306 North Halsted Street
- Chicago, IL 60661
- +1 (312) 265-3990
- www.themidchicago.com
Located in the West Loop, The Mid is somewhere between a concert hall and a trendy nightclub. The venue is very much a commercial establishment complete with promotional events, party packages, flashy lights, and cheesy go-go dancers. With that being said, The Mid books some of the most popular electronic acts and has hosted performances by top DJs from around the world.
Explore
Rich in culture and history, it's no wonder Chicago is a world-class destination ranked third for top tourist destinations in the US. With so many things to do, it might be hard to narrow down the attractions and activities you want to explore. But don't worry, we did our best curating a list for you so you can have the ultimate Chicago experience.
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Art Institute of Chicago
- 111 South Michigan Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60603
- +1 (312) 443-3600
- www.artic.edu
Located right next to Grant Park, this art museum houses one of the largest collections of works in the world, especially Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. With one million square feet of space, this museum is the second largest art museum in the U.S. behind the Met in NYC. Come here to have an afternoon filled with art, culture, and creativity.
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Cloud Gate ("The Bean")
- 201 East Randolph Street
- Chicago, IL 60602
- +1 (312) 742-5222
- www.milleniumpark.org
Famously referred to as "The Bean," this installation is British artist Anish Kapoor's first public outdoor piece displayed in the United States. Inspired by liquid mercury, the sculpture reflects and distorts Chicago's legendary skyline. People can also go under the arch of the installation, which consists of a concave chamber that contorts and multiplies reflections. Visit this famous installation to take fun and captivating pictures.
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Museum of Science and Industry
- 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
- Chicago, IL 60637
- +1 (773) 684-1414
- www.msichicago.org
As the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, it houses more than 35,000 artifacts and nearly 14 acres of hands-on exhibits. With so many things to see, one day might not be enough. Some of the exhibits include a working coal mine, a German submarine captured during WW2, and the Apollo 8 spacecraft, the first aircraft to send humans to the Moon. Come to this museum to be captivated, inspired, and entertained for hours.
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Garfield Park Conservatory
- 300 North Central Park Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60624
- +1 (312) 746-5100
- www.garfield-conservatory.org
Often known as "landscape art under glass," this conservatory, occupying 4.5 acres, is one of the largest and most spectacular in the United States. Housing many plant exhibits with specimens from all over the world, come here to surround yourself in nature in an urban landscape.
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Willis Tower and Skydeck
- 233 South Wacker Drive
- Chicago, IL 60606
- +1 (312) 875-0066
- www.theskydeck.com
Your trip to Chicago would not be complete unless you visited this tower, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, and the eighth tallest in the world. Visitors can go up onto the Skydeck located on the 103rd floor to see a breathtaking view of Chicago, Lake Michigan, and even to Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin on a sunny day. Walk onto the protruding glass ledges to experience the unobstructed views and take memorable photos. Also check out the Skydeck Theater, which features a 9-minute movie about the story of the tower and Chicago's architectural scene.
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Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
- 220 East Chicago Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60611
- +1 (312) 280-2660
- www.mcachicago.com
A museum dedicated to contemporary art since 1945, it displays our visual culture through painting, sculpture, photography, video, film, and performance. With cool architecture and funky art, you won't be bored while visiting this museum.
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Navy Pier
- 600 East Chicago Avenue
- Chicago, IL 60611
- +1 (312) 595-7437
- www.navypier.com
Located on the Chicago shoreline of Lake Michigan, this pier is home to many attractions for you to choose from. Experience a dinner cruise on the water, ride the Ferris wheel, and enjoy the fireworks on Wednesday and Saturday nights during the summer (only Saturday nights during the fall months). There are multiple events throughout the year, so be sure to check out the Calendar of Events to see what's going on during your visit.
At-a-Glance
Location:
Grant Park, Chicago, IllinoisDates:
August 3-5, 2012Price Points:
General Admission 3-Day Pass $230; VIP $1050Website:
www.lollapalooza.com
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10 July 2012

