I am not a native Chicagoan, so thanks to all of you for your advice! My spreadsheet is getting huge with directions, times, distances and attractions, lol!
For this trip, we’re staying at the Hilton because that was one of UChicago’s recommended hotels. So upon landing, we’ll be going from Midway to Hilton, and the next morning, UChicago said they’ll provide shuttles from the Hilton (at 720 South Michigan) to campus.
For some reason, my hubby is opposed to being in traffic during the afternoon and rush hours, but if there are questionable areas, we might Uber it. (post #31 ‘never in danger of being shot’ rotfl! --yep that’s the standard by which everyone uses to determine a neighborhood’s safety threshold.)
Probably after this trip, we’ll be more familiar with the layout o’ the land and will be able to figure out whether other hotels might be better depending on what we’re planning on doing.
Thanks for all the touring destination suggestions. So looking forward to seeing them. We’re definitely going to be walking alot, as it really gives us a flavor of the city/area we’re in. We’re not going anywhere upscale, just wanted to explore the city, so I guess we’ll leave our tux and gown at home! 
Wow, there’s so much I am interested in seeing, so I obviously need a few more trips to Chicago! (or should I say Chicagoland?)