Chicago Hotel Market Report

Chicago is the latest American city to announce a full reopening, removing restrictions that have hampered both travel and business. Additionally, major events like Lollapalooza are returning to the city.

Mask requirements now eased for Illinois. Travel demand returning

On May 18th, Chicago updated the city’s mask guidance, following the state of Illinois: individuals who are two weeks past their final vaccination – around 38% of the population (as of 5/18) – were allowed to go maskless in most settings; just in time for the Memorial Day weekend travel rush.

Chicago leadership has the city on a steady reopening strategy

Key announcement dates:

• April 19th: Vaccine open for all aged 16+
• May 18th: Mask mandate loosened
• May 18th: Lollapalooza confirmed
• June 4th: Chicago announces full reopening, ahead of schedule
• June 11th: Phase 5 – all businesses open

Spotlight: Chicago

Chicago opened vaccination to all those over 16 years of age on April 19th. Since then, travel demand has steadily increased week over week.

Spotlight: Chicago

After easing mask mandates on May 18th, Chicago hotel searches have steadily increased every week. A spike in searches since this date is clearly seen; overall, and has increased over 120% increase since the start of the year.

Spotlight: Chicago

Distribution for Hotel search Lead times, primarily made up of drive-in guests has been fairly equitable for dates under 90 days. However, we are now seeing travel for Lead time 0-7 spiking significantly.

The return of Lollapalooza

Chicago’s world famous music festival was officially confirmed for 2021 and lineups revealed. The windy city plans to be fully open for travel by July 4th.

Spotlight: Chicago

Flight searches have also consistently been trending upward consistently throughout 2021 as well, surpassing a 100% increase since January 1st
immediately following the mask announcement.

Spotlight: Chicago

Flight search lead times also display Chicago will be a hot destination. Lollapalooza dates and the much anticipated summer months (lead time 29-90) have increased dramatically.

Spotlight: Chicago – Demand data

Demand Evolution for Lollapalooza July 19th stay-date shown reveals that that search traffic around Grant Park and the entire city has erupted (data pulled from Market Insight – as of 6/7).