What to pack for a stay at The Drake (seasonal checklist)
Pack a mix of seasonal clothing (layers for spring/fall, warm outerwear for winter, lightweight clothes and a rain jacket for summer), travel documents, chargers, and a few beach-ready items — The Drake sits across from Oak Street Beach. Also bring any prescription meds, footwear for walking the Magnificent Mile and Lakefront Trail, and anything special your room type needs (crib requests, mobility aids) — the reservation holder must be 21+ at check-in.
In this guide
Travel documents, money, and arrival essentials
Bring photo ID and the credit card used to make the reservation — the reservation holder must be at least 21 years old and must present a photo ID and credit card at check-in. Keep the BookResorts 24/7 phone handy if you booked through an agent (+1 (888) 605-1350).
Carry a printed or digital copy of your reservation and any special requests (crib, connecting rooms, accessible room). Luggage storage and porter service are available at the 24-hour front desk if you arrive before the hotel's 3:00 PM check-in.
If you plan to drive, bring the card you want to use for parking charges; The Drake charges separately for self-parking and valet parking and self-parking includes in/out privileges.
- Photo ID and card used to book
- Reservation confirmation (print or screen)
- BookResorts contact: +1 (888) 605-1350
- Any documentation for accessibility requests or pet policy
| Service | Notes |
|---|---|
| Check-in | 3:00 PM (front desk open 24 hours) |
| Check-out | 12:00 PM (noon) |
| Front desk | 24-hour assistance, luggage storage, concierge |
Seasonal clothing and footwear
Chicago weather changes by season and The Drake sits at the lakefront, so plan for wind and cooler temps near Lake Michigan. Late spring and early fall are mild; summer can be warm but lakefront breezes cool evenings; winter is cold and occasionally snowy.
Pack layers you can add or remove, including a windproof jacket for lake breezes, a warm coat and hat for winter, and breathable layers for summer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the Magnificent Mile and nearby attractions.
- Spring/Fall: light sweater, windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes
- Summer: lightweight clothing, light rain jacket, sandals or walking shoes
- Winter: insulated coat, hat, gloves, waterproof boots
| Season | Must-haves |
|---|---|
| Spring/Fall | Layers, windproof jacket, umbrella |
| Summer | Light clothes, sun protection, light sweater for evenings |
| Winter | Warm coat, thermal layers, cold-weather boots |
Beach and lakefront items
The Drake sits directly across from Oak Street Beach (about a 3–5 minute walk). If you plan to use the beach or walk the Lakefront Trail, pack beach and active items accordingly.
Even in summer the lakefront can be breezy, so include a light wrap or windbreaker for evenings on the shore.
- Swimsuit, quick-dry towel or lightweight beach towel
- Water bottle and sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Beach shoes or flip-flops, light cover-up or windbreaker
| Activity | Suggested item |
|---|---|
| Beach visit | Swimsuit + sunscreen |
| Lakefront walk or bike | Comfortable shoes + water bottle |
| Evening on the shore | Light jacket or wrap |
Tech, work essentials, and valuables
Bring chargers for phone, laptop, and any camera gear; The Drake offers in-room safes suitable for a laptop. If you need reliable WiFi, note that standard in-room and lobby WiFi is available for a daily surcharge and may be complimentary for eligible loyalty members.
If you plan to work in your room or use business facilities, pack a laptop, HDMI cable (if you present slides), and a portable battery. The hotel has a business center and meeting rooms if you need more formal space.
- Phone and laptop chargers; portable battery
- Plug adapters if coming from abroad
- Small lockable pouch or use the laptop-compatible safe in-room
| Need | Tip |
|---|---|
| WiFi | Daily surcharge unless waived for rewards members |
| Printing / meeting rooms | On-site business facilities and meeting spaces available |
| Secure valuables | Use the in-room laptop-compatible safe |
Bathroom, health and accessibility items
The Drake is non-smoking and provides standard room toiletries, but if you prefer specific brands, pack your own. There is no on-site spa; in-room massages can be arranged if you want spa-style services in your room.
If you require accessible accommodations, request an accessible room in advance. The property offers wheelchair-accessible paths, a registration desk, accessible parking spaces, and accessible fitness and lounge areas.
- Personal toiletries and any preferred skincare products
- Prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit
- Mobility aids or documentation if you requested accessible features
| Amenity | Notes |
|---|---|
| Spa services | No dedicated on-site spa; in-room massage can be arranged |
| Accessible rooms | Accessible rooms and features available; request in advance |
| Pool | No on-site pool |
Dining, special-occasion and event packing
If you plan to dine at Palm Court for Afternoon Tea or visit Coq d'Or, check their dress codes: Palm Court is Smart Casual and Coq d'Or lists Business Casual. Palm Court reservations are highly encouraged and tea seatings last up to 90 minutes.
For wedding or conference guests using The Drake's event spaces (Gold Coast Room, Grand Ballroom, French Room, Camellia Room), pack attire appropriate to the event and any items you need for a reception or meeting (programs, shoes for dancing).
- Smart Casual or Business Casual outfits for Palm Court and Coq d'Or
- Flat, comfortable dress shoes plus one dress pair for events
- Anything required for event presentations (USB, adapters)
| Venue | Dress code |
|---|---|
| Palm Court (Afternoon Tea) | Smart Casual |
| Coq d'Or (bar & restaurant) | Business Casual |
| Ballrooms (Gold Coast Room / Grand Ballroom) | Event attire varies by invitation; plan for formal or semi-formal |
