What to pack for a stay at The Wade (seasonal checklist)
Pack the basics plus season-appropriate layers for Chicago weather, essentials for downtown walking and lakefront time, and items for The Wade’s on-site amenities (Current restaurant, indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center). Bring ID and a credit card for check-in (primary guest must be 21+), swimwear and a cover-up for the indoor pool, and business supplies if you’ll use the meeting rooms or business center.
In this guide
Important documents & arrival items
Bring a government-issued photo ID and the credit card you used to book; The Wade may request these at check-in and an incidental hold is commonly placed.
Print or save your reservation confirmation (if you booked through BookResorts or another site) and have the hotel phone number handy for 24/7 agent support: +1 (888) 605-1350.
- Government photo ID (primary guest must be 21+)
- Credit card for incidentals
- Reservation confirmation (digital or print)
- Emergency contact and travel insurance info
Seasonal clothing — Chicago by month
Chicago weather changes a lot through the year. In spring and fall bring a midweight jacket and windproof layers; summers are warm and humid near the lake; winters are cold and often below freezing.
Plan outfits for walking the Magnificent Mile, the Lakefront Trail and short walks to Navy Pier or Ohio Street Beach. Comfortable, weatherproof shoes are important.
- Spring/Fall: light sweater, windbreaker, closed-toe walking shoes
- Summer (May–Sept): breathable shirts, shorts, light rain jacket, sandals
- Winter: insulated coat, hat, gloves, warm boots
| Season | Key items |
|---|---|
| Spring / Fall | Layering pieces, windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes |
| Summer | Light layers, sun protection, comfortable sandals |
| Winter | Warm coat, boots, hat, gloves |
Pool, beach and fitness gear
The Wade has an indoor swimming pool open year-round and a sun deck/terrace. One booking source describes the indoor pool as reserved for adults; if this matters for your trip, check with the front desk on arrival.
The 24-hour fitness center is complimentary for guests—pack workout clothes and shoes if you want to use machines or group classes.
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel (hotel provides pool towels, but bring your own if preferred)
- Cover-up or robes and sandals for pool area
- Workout clothes, running shoes, reusable water bottle
Toiletries, meds and in-room needs
The Wade rooms include standard bathroom amenities; if you prefer specific brands, bring your own toiletries. Pack prescriptions and a basic first-aid kit.
If you plan to use the bathtub or shower in-room, consider bringing preferred bath products — some rooms or suites show bathtub setups and double vanities, but availability varies by room type.
- Prescription medications (in original bottles)
- Daily toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, razor)
- Small first-aid kit and any allergy meds
- Optional: travel-size laundry detergent for in-room touch-ups
For work and meetings
If you’re attending meetings or using The Wade’s business center and meeting rooms, bring a laptop, chargers and presentation adapters. The hotel offers a 24-hour business center and many meeting spaces across the property.
Wireless internet availability is listed differently across sources (complimentary vs. surcharge-based); plan to have a mobile hotspot or offline copies of materials if you need guaranteed connectivity.
- Laptop, power adapter, charging cables
- Portable battery pack
- USB or HDMI adapter for presentations
- Printed handouts or offline copies
Room selection notes & extras to bring
Room names at The Wade are Room, City View; Suite, 1 Bedroom, Lake View; Premium Room, Lake View; and Room, Lake View. If a lake or skyline view matters to you, request it when booking or checking in.
Consider bringing earplugs or a white-noise app if you are sensitive to hallway noises; some guest reviews note noise from ice machines and elevator shafts.
- Earplugs or white-noise device
- Small travel laundry kit for longer stays
- Power strip if you have many devices (check hotel outlet availability)
| Room type | Common bed options |
|---|---|
| Room, City View | 1 King Bed or 2 Double Beds |
| Suite, 1 Bedroom, Lake View | 1 King Bed or 2 Double Beds |
| Premium Room, Lake View / Room, Lake View | 1 King Bed or 2 Double Beds |
Pets, parking and other practical items
The Wade is pet-friendly, but policies vary; one booking source lists dogs up to 40 pounds and a maximum of two pets per room—call ahead to confirm current rules and any fees.
On-site parking is valet-only. If you’re driving, expect to use valet service; confirm rates and accessible parking options directly with the hotel before arrival.
- Pet documents (vaccination records) if traveling with a pet; call the hotel to confirm policy
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration for valet
- Copies of any accessibility or special-request confirmations
