> My wife and I have never been to chicago. we would like to be within
> walking distance to some events. could someone recommend somewhere to stay?
Pinkfest is kind of like DLV in that the various activities happen all over. The biggest concentration of activities will probably be in the downtown "Loop" and River North areas.
If you're unfamiliar with Chicago, a discussion of the geography of the area, focusing on where Pinkfest activities often happen, appears about 1/4 into the page at this URL:
http://www.geekbabe.com/pinkfest/expect/Unfortunately, hotels in the downtown/River North area tend to be outrageously expensive. The real answers here depend on what your budget limitations are.
Red Roof Inn at Ontario and St. Clair is probably the cheapest almost-decent place in that area.
One place I considered, which one of our people used last year, was the La Quinta Inn just west of the Loop.
Rather than repeat a lot of things, I suggest reading this page for some suggestions on where to stay:
http://www.geekbabe.com/pinkfest/hotels/Personally, I tend to enjoy things better when I pay a bit more and get a hotel room downtown than when I get one out in the toolies and have to commute.
> Will we need a car?
Again, personally, I enjoy Pinkfest (and DLV) better when I don't have a car.
One thing to consider if you're concerned about hotel prices is that the savings on hotel rooms will easily pay for a rental car if you stay out in the 'burbs and commute.
If you'll give a bit more detail about how comfortable you are driving, how comfortable you are taking public transit, and what your price range is, I can give you some more specific suggestions.