In this section you will discover our tips for places to stay in Chicago. Check out the best hotels in Chicago that we can personally recommend.
Where to stay in Chicago
Chicago has a relatively small Downtown, but it is full of hotels. Living within the immediate downtown area should be the first area where you look for hotels. This is because in this case, you'll often make do with just your own two feet and won't need to use public transportation at all.
Downtown Chicago is divided into two parts. Click on the name of the district to see the hotels:
- Chicago Loop - the area south of the river, where, for example, the Willis Tower stands. Hotels here are slightly cheaper than north of the river.
- Magnificient Mile - The area north of the river, where, for example, the John Hancock Center stands. There are a large number of expensive luxury hotels here.
Lovers of water views can of course choose to live by the waterfront, where, especially further away from the centre, you will find good quality hotels at a decent price.
You probably won't find any downright dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago, but the entire south side of the city (from about 35th Street south) is one of the worst, unkempt ones, and tourists can be an unwanted focus of attention.
Tips for the best hotels
Chicago is a fairly expensive city and the cheapest classic hotels with private bathrooms in the room cost around 150 usd.
Cheap hotels with good accessibility
For cheap deals, it's always a good idea to check the distance from downtown or at least the nearest subway station.
- The Whitehall Hotel - BW Premier Collection *** - One of the cheapest major brand hotels, you'll also find it in a great location right next to the John Hancock Center
- Chicago Getaway Hostel *** - Well-rated hostel with regular hotel rooms 400 metres from Fullerton station
- Freehand Chicago **** - small hotel with a great location just steps from the Magnificent Mile
Hotels overlooking the Chicago River
Views of the Chicago River with its monumental skyline full of skyscrapers are among the most iconic places in the entire USA. Choose a hotel with this majestic view.
- Club Quarters Hotel Wacker **** - It is one of the best value hotels in Downtown.
- Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk **** - Luxury hotel with affordable rates compared to hotels in the same category
- Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago ***** - Iconic hotel offers luxury without compromise and divine views
Lake Michigan Hotels
Enjoy views of the endless expanse of Lake Michigan. Hotels on its shores are ideal for travelers who love long walks or playing sports along its many walking paths.
- W Chicago-Lakeshore **** - A hotel right on Oak Street Beach with stunning views and easy access to Downtown
- Sable At Navy Pier Chicago **** - luxury hotel on Navy Pier, one of Chicago's most popular tourist spots
Rates
Chicago is a bit of a standout among American cities. Unlike, say, New York or San Francisco, the rule that the earlier you book a hotel, the cheaper it will be doesn't apply here so much as the opposite.
It's recommended to keep an eye out for deals about 2 months to 14 days before your trip, when unexpectedly good prices can appear even at hotels right in the centre.
In the low season, i.e. winter, expect prices around 90 usd per night in a double room in a local 3* hotel, multinational chains start at around 120 usd per night.
In summer, prices go up by about 20-30%. Most deals on booking portals already include all taxes in the first price shown (compared to other US cities).
