As Amtraks Chicago train station, Chicago Union Station is an exciting place to begin or end a train trip. But if you plan to tour Chicago while you are in town, you have numerous hotel options. These lodging alternatives have their advantages and disadvantages depended on what it important to you.

Here are five ways to save money and have fun while staying near Chicago Union Station:

One: The number one tip for saving money while staying in Chicago is to choose a hotel away from Michigan Avenue. Since The Magnificent Mile has copious amounts of shopping and tourist attractions, Michigan Avenue and the streets next to it host the most expensive hotels in the city. You will save money staying closer to Union Station itself and taking other means of transportation to shopping and attractions.

Two: Since downtown Chicago has flat topography, it is an easy area within to walk. If the weather is nice, walking at least one way to a tourist site will save money. Also, you will be able to afford (financially and calorically) to eat the great Chicago food.

Three: Taxis are everywhere in downtown Chicago when you want fast, personal service. But if you wish to save money, try the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and trains. There is an informative Downtown Transit Sightseeing Guide at www.transitchicago.com. It has detailed descriptions on how to ride the buses and trains, fare information and a guide to getting to numerous sightseeing attractions. The best deal is the one, three and seven day CTA passes that can be purchased online in advanced or at many locations around downtown (ask at your hotels front desk for the nearest location.)

Four: In the summertime, one of the coolest ways to get to Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Chinatown if you are staying close to Union Station is by taking the water taxi. Chicago Water Taxi loads at Madison Street at 2 North Riverside Center next to Union Station. Shoreline Sightseeing also offers water taxi service across the Chicago River on Adams street next to 200 South Wacker. From Navy Pier, Shoreline also has boats that go to Buckingham Fountain/Grant Park and the Museum Campus where the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium are located.

Five: Three recommended hotels close to Chicago Union Station are the La Quinta Inn and Suites Chicago Downtown, the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Downtown Chicago, and the Crowne Plaza Metro. All of these hotels are moderately-priced and have amenities such as fitness centers, indoor swimming pools, and business centers. The La Quinta even serves free breakfast!

Charles Self is the editor of the Amtrak Train Stations Across America website. At http://www.passengertraininfo.com/chicagohotels.aspx you will find additional information on hotels near Chicago Union Station and information about other Amtrak train stations.