What to pack for a Chicago stay at Marriott Marquis
Pack seasonally for Chicago weather, layers for lake breezes, and basics for business or family needs. Include photo ID and a credit/debit card for check-in, comfortable walking shoes for the South Loop, and items for in-room dining or fitness if you plan to use hotel services.
In this guide
Arrival essentials
Bring government-issued photo identification and a credit or debit card for check-in; the hotel may require a card or cash deposit for incidentals. The hotel's stated check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 12:00 PM (noon).
Marriott Marquis Chicago accepts credit cards and does not accept cash for some transactions; service animals are allowed but pets are not. If you need accessible accommodations, request one of the Room (Mobility/, Tub) or Room, Lake View (Mobility/, Tub) types when booking.
- Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Credit/debit card (for incidentals/deposit)
- Reservation confirmation
- Any service-animal documentation you normally carry (hotel welcomes service animals)
| At the desk | What to have ready |
|---|---|
| Check-in | ID + credit/debit card |
| Check-out | Confirm charges; settle incidental balance |
| Accessibility requests | Confirm accessible room type at booking |
Clothing: dress for the season and lake wind
Chicago weather varies by season. Spring and fall are often mild but can be breezy near Lake Michigan; summer can be warm and humid; winter is cold with possible snow. Layering is the safest strategy.
Pack a light windbreaker or medium-weight coat for lake breezes, and warmer outerwear, hat and gloves if you travel in winter. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking to nearby attractions and the Lakefront Trail.
- Light jacket or windbreaker (spring/fall)
- Warm coat, hat, gloves (winter travel)
- Shorts or lightweight clothing (summer)
- Comfortable walking shoes
| Season | Key clothing |
|---|---|
| Spring/Fall | Layers + windproof jacket |
| Summer | Light clothing + umbrella for storms |
| Winter | Insulated coat, boots, warm accessories |
Business travel and working from your room
If you're visiting for a convention at McCormick Place or a meeting, bring work essentials: laptop, chargers, and any presentation adapters. Many rooms have desks and wide windows that serve as a work spot.
Wi‑Fi is offered to guests, though some booking channels list different in-room access terms or fees. Confirm Wi‑Fi access or speed with your booking channel if you need guaranteed bandwidth for meetings or streaming.
- Laptop/tablet and power adapters
- Ethernet adapter or portable hotspot if you need backup connectivity
- Portable charger and USB cables
- Presentation materials (USB drive, clicker) if needed
| Room feature | Why bring it |
|---|---|
| Desk and window work area | Comfortable workspace with city or lake views |
| Complimentary fitness center | Workout clothes and sneakers for 24-hour gym access |
| In-room dining (A La Carte) | Snacks or pajamas for late-night work meals |
In-room basics and toiletries
Rooms include standard bathroom fixtures; larger suites have living areas. The hotel provides towels and basic bathroom amenities, but bring any personal toiletries or specialty items you prefer.
If you rely on a particular pillow, allergy bedding, or medical supplies, pack them. The property does not list an on-site spa with treatments, so bring any at-room self-care items you might want.
- Toiletries you prefer (toothbrush, shampoo, medications)
- Sleep aids or earplugs if you are a light sleeper
- Power strip with surge protection (if you have multiple devices)
- Reusable water bottle
| What the hotel provides | You may still want to pack |
|---|---|
| Towels and basic toiletries | Personal toiletries and medications |
| In-room coffee/ beverage station | Favorite coffee or tea packets if you prefer |
| Flat-screen TV and desk | HDMI cable or adapters for presentations |
Family travel and kids
Marriott Marquis Chicago welcomes children of all ages. Crib availability and extra-bed rules can vary, so confirm accommodations and any fees when booking your Room, Room, City View, Room, Lake View or suites.
On-site dining options include family-friendly choices such as Woven and Bound, 2121 Pantry and the Showroom Food Hall; breakfast is available for an additional fee at hotel venues.
- Pack small toys or entertainment for children (especially for downtime)
- Bring any child-specific toiletries or medications
- If you need a crib or rollaway, request it when you book
| Dining option | Good for |
|---|---|
| Woven and Bound | Sit-down meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner) |
| 2121 Pantry | Coffee, grab-and-go breakfast and snacks |
| Showroom Food Hall | Casual, multiple concepts for picky eaters |
Fitness, outdoors and getting around
The hotel offers a complimentary, 24-hour fitness center on the fourth floor with Lake Michigan views; pack workout clothes and trainers if you plan to use it. There is no on-site pool.
For outdoor time, the Lakefront Trail and local beaches such as 31st Street Beach are within walking or biking distance. The hotel is directly connected by skybridge to McCormick Place and Wintrust Arena, making it convenient for event attendees.
- Workout clothes and sneakers (fitness center open 24 hours)
- Biking or running gear if you plan to use Lakefront Trail
- Umbrella for sudden summer storms
| Nearby | How to reach from hotel |
|---|---|
| McCormick Place / Wintrust Arena | Direct skybridge connection |
| Lakefront Trail / 31st Street Beach | Walk or bike along the lakefront |
| Cermak-McCormick Place Green Line 'L' station | About a 10-minute walk |
Food, snacks and special diets
On-site dining includes Woven and Bound (American restaurant), 2121 Pantry (café) and the Showroom Food Hall (multiple casual concepts). In-room 24-hour dining (A La Carte) is also available.
Vegetarian and vegan menu options are offered across on-site restaurants. If you have strict dietary needs, bring any specialty items you require and check menus in advance.
- Snacks for quick energy between meetings
- Any specialty food or allergy-safe items you require
- Reusable cutlery or container if you prefer to pack leftovers
| Venue | Typical service times |
|---|---|
| Woven and Bound | Breakfast, lunch, dinner (hours vary) |
| 2121 Pantry | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (coffee & light snacks) |
| Showroom Food Hall | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (casual lunch & dinner) |
