Not only is Chicago the third-most populated city in the United States, but did you know that it is also the second most popular city for tourists as it is outranked only by New York City?
Chicago, known as the “Windy City”, is located next to Lake Michigan. Every year people flock here to visit the many awesome attractions.
This beautiful city is particularly well known for its museums and the arts, although there are multiple activities to suit all tastes. Chicago also offers a spectacular culinary scene and impressive architecture that tells the story of the different eras of Chicago.
Choosing where to stay
We know that when you visit Chicago, you are going to want to stay at the best accommodations possible to meet your needs, whether that is location, budget, or entertainment. Right?
- See also: The best time to visit Chicago
Allow us to share with you Chicago’s most known neighborhoods as well as the best accommodation you will want to consider. All of these are close to the most popular attractions in Chicago, and all are wonderful places to stay.
1. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a neighborhood that sits on the shore of Lake Michigan in the South Side of Chicago, Illinois. Many visitors would recommend this area if they were asked where to stay when visiting Chicago.
Map of Hyde Park, Chicago | Source: Google Maps
This area is a lovely place to stay as it is home to many of the best tourist attractions, including the Museum of Science and Industry. Also great for those who enjoy a little retail therapy, you’ll find varied shopping options in this district.
Chicago Hyde Park | Photo by Erik Cooper via Flickr
There are plenty of restaurants that serve cuisine from all four corners of the globe with dining options for all budgets and occasions in this neighborhood.
Check out these top recommended hotels in Hyde Park:
#1. Best luxurious hotel in Hyde Park: Sophy Hyde Park
A top hotel in Hyde Park is Sophy Hyde Park. Luxurious, modern, and art-filled, the hotel is highly rated by former guests.
It is close to the local landmarks and boasts a library bar and a refined restaurant. This hotel is best-suited to adults who want to enjoy a peaceful vacation in upscale surroundings.
More information:
• 1411 East 53rd Street, Hyde Park, Chicago, IL 60615
• Avg. $290+ per night | Check rates
#2. Top Choice: Hyatt Place Chicago (South/University Medical Center)
This hotel has simple yet comfortable rooms. Facilities for guests include a gym, an indoor pool, and a café with a bar.
It is a good option for those who are wondering where to stay in Chicago with family as it is a child-friendly hotel that aims to please customers of all ages, and it has been noted for its excellent customer service by those who have stayed there.
More information:
• 5225 S Harper Ave, Chicago, IL 60615
• Avg. $349+ per night | See rates for Hyatt Place
#3. Hyde Park best’s budget friendly hotel: Chicago Lake Shore Hotel
Just on the outskirts of Hyde Park is the Chicago Lake Shore Hotel, which is a great choice for people with a limited budget.
Although it is one of the cheapest options in this area, it has an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a restaurant, and beach access.
If you visit when the weather is good, the beach access is a particularly good feature as you can relax on the beach or take advantage of the waterside activities.
More information:
• 4900 South Lakeshore Drive, Hyde Park, Chicago, Il 60615
• Avg. $113+ per night | See rates for Chicago Lake Shore
2. Lincoln Park
Map of Lincoln Park Neighborhood, Chicago | Source: Google maps
Located in the North Side of Chicago, this designated community area is named after its park, which is the largest park in Chicago.
It is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the Windy City, so many people consider it one of the best places to stay in Chicago when visiting.
Lincoln Park South Pond and Lincoln Park Zoo Nature Boardwalk in Chicago | Photo by Alanscottwalker via Wiki Commons
Locals agree that this is one of the safest places to stay as well. If you plan on eating out regularly during your stay, this area is a good choice as there are multiple excellent restaurants, including ‘Alinea’, which is the only 3-Michelin star restaurant in Chicago.
#1 . Best luxurious hotel in Lincoln Park: The Hotel at Midtown
An upscale option is The Hotel at Midtown, which sits on the south edge of Lincoln Park close to many amenities and attractions. Guests can take advantage of the indoor and outdoor pools, the fitness center, a rooftop bar, hot tubs, spa services, golf, and a farm-to-table restaurant.
More information:
• 2444 North Elston Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647
• Avg. $354+ per night | Check The Hotel at Midtown rates
#2. Top choice: Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago
You can still enjoy staying in top-class accommodations even if you opt to stay in a budget hotel. The Hotel Versey Days Inn has a trendy but no-frills vibe. Guests can play golf or keep fit in the fitness center.
More information:
• 644 West Diversey Parkway, Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
• Avg. $286+ per night | Check rates
#3. Best budget friendly hotel in Lincoln Park: Hotel Lincoln
The best overall hotel in Lincoln Park is Hotel Lincoln. This reasonably priced four-star hotel is in a good location close to Lincoln Park and many local attractions. Guests can enjoy the original artwork on display, the wine hours, and the rooftop yoga.
More information:
• 1816 N Clark Street, Chicago, IL, 60614
• Avg. $290+ per night | Check rates for Hotel Lincoln
3. Magnificent Mile
Map of Magnificent Mile, Chicago | Source: Google Maps
Another great place to stay in Chicago when visiting is the Magnificent Mile on North Michigan Avenue.
Magnificent Mile is home to many landmarks, museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is also the link between Loop and Gold Coast, which is where many of the other popular attractions are located. Therefore, it is the convenience of staying in this neighborhood that many tourists find appealing.
#1. Magnificent Mile’s best luxurious hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
If you prefer to stay in luxurious accommodations when you take a vacation, then the obvious choice along Magnificent Mile is the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. This luxurious hotel boasts impressive city views, a relaxing spa, an indoor pool, and an outstanding restaurant.
More information:
• 120 E Delaware Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
• Avg. $854+ per night | Check rates for Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
#2. Top choice: Hyatt Centric Chicago Magnificent Mile
Those who are wondering where to stay in Chicago with family should look no further than the Hyatt Centric Chicago Magnificent Mile. It has a convenient location and amenities that will suit families, such as indoor and outdoor pools, a café, a restaurant, children’s meals, and friendly staff.
More information:
• 633 N Saint Clair St, Chicago, IL
• Avg. $659+ per night | Check rates
#3. Magnificent Mile best budget hotel: Whitehall Hotel
Those on a budget should consider staying at the Whitehall Hotel. Despite the low price, this four-star hotel has plenty of in-room amenities, a restaurant, a bar, all-inclusive packages, and a great location. You can enjoy a comfortable stay in a location close to the things you want to see for a low cost.
More information:
• 105 East Delaware Place, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
• Avg. $342+ per night | Check rates for Whitehall Hotel
4. Near South Side / South Loop
Map of Near South Side, Chicago | Source: Google Maps
Located to the south of The Loop and to the east of Lower West Side and Chinatown, South Loop and Near South Side is one of the older parts of Chicago.
Many of the old warehouses and railroad buildings have now been converted into hotels, businesses, and trendy accommodation.
South Side South Loop | Photo by David B. Gleason via Flickr
The area is known for its theaters and arts, and it is also close to many of the landmarks and tourist attractions such as Shedd Aquarium and several museums. Therefore, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to daytime activities during your stay right on your doorstep.
This neighborhood sits next to Lake Michigan, which is another factor that appeals to visitors who enjoy water views, want to spend time at the lake, or intend to take boat trips to the nearby islands.
#1. Best luxurious hotel in South Loop: Kimpton Gray Hotel
One of the most luxurious hotels in this area is the Kimpton Gray Hotel. Surprisingly, it has a lower price tag than you would expect for what is one offer at this highly-rated hotel.
It is a swanky high-rise with impressive views from its lively rooftop lounge.
The rooms boast chic décor and luxurious amenities, while the facilities include a polished spa and a hip dining room that serves contemporary dishes.
More information:
• 122 West Monroe Street, Chicago, IL, 60603
• Avg. $444+ per night | Book it
#2. Top Choice: Hilton Chicago
This hotel is an affordable option perfect for families and couples alike. The rooms have a good selection of amenities, and the facilities in the hotel include an indoor pool, an Irish pub, and an upscale grill restaurant that serves some child-friendly options.
More information:
• 720 South Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605-2116
• Avg. $256+ per night | See rates
#3. Best budget friendly hotel: Jaslin Hotel
A budget-friendly option in South Loop is Jaslin Hotel. It is within walking distance of transport links and many attractions, including Shedd Aquarium and the outdoor theater at Millennium Park.
Breakfast is complimentary at this hotel, and guests have access to a fitness center and a lobby lounge. The on-site restaurant has received excellent reviews from former guests, so you’ll have no need to go searching for a good place to eat during your stay.
More information:
• 261 West Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL, 60616
• Avg. $208+ per night | Jaslin Hotel rates
5. River North
River North, also known as River North Gallery District, is part of the Near North Side of Chicago.
It encompasses the area that sits just north of the Chicago River. There are two main reasons this area is so popular with tourists.
Map of River North, Chicago | Source: Google Maps
View of River North | Photo by Aurimas via Flickr
The first is that it boasts the largest concentration of art galleries in the United States other than Manhattan. This means it is a great place to stay for art lovers. Second, it is known for its vibrant nightlife.
Those who intend to dine out, visit bars, and party into the early hours will love this location as it has an exciting and lively vibe.
#1. Best luxurious hotel: The Langham, Chicago
If you want your stay in Chicago to be truly special and stay in the best accommodations available, then The Langham, Chicago, is the top choice.
This five-star, luxurious hotel has stunning rooms, many of which have views across Lake Michigan. It is ideally located for accessing many of the local attractions, most of which are within walking distance of the hotel, but transport links are nearby if you need to go further afield.
Guest facilities include an indoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, hot tubs, a bar, and a modern Mediterranean restaurant.
More information:
• 330 North Wabash Avenue, River North, Chicago, IL 60611
• Avg. $731+ per night | Check rates for the Langham Chicago
#2. Top choice: Best Western River North Hotel
If you are considering where to stay in Chicago with family and would prefer a River North location, the Best Western River North Hotel comes highly recommended by former guests.
This child-friendly hotel has many features that children love, such as the indoor pool and direct beach access. This gives families options for hours of entertainment both indoors and outdoors during their stay, which is important in a city where the weather is somewhat unpredictable.
There is also a bar, a restaurant, and a fitness center for guests to use during their stay.
More information:
• 125 W Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60654-4410
• Avg. $239+ per night | Check Best Western River North Hotel rates
#3. Best budget friendly: Hotel Chicago Downtown, Autograph Collection
Those who want to keep the cost of their trip to a minimum should consider staying at this hotel as it is a comfortable place to stay within walking distance of major attractions and transport links.
Facilities for guests to enjoy include a bar, a fitness center, business and event spaces, and a restaurant. This means that guests have plenty to keep them entertained if they choose to spend a day in the hotel instead of exploring the surrounding area.
More information:
• 333 N Dearborn St, Driveway Entrance at 350 N State St, Chicago, IL
• Avg. $396+ per night | Check Hotel Chicago Downtown Autograph Collection rates
6. The Loop
Map of The Loop, Chicago | Source: Google Maps
If you are considering staying in downtown Chicago, The Loop is probably the best option due to its central location. This means you can enjoy the buzz of the inner city while also having easy access to all the surrounding areas.
The Loop, Chicago | Photo by Diego Delso via Wikimedia Commons
It is a central business hub, so it is just as popular with those traveling on business as it is with leisure travelers.
#1. Best luxurious hotel in The Loop: Chicago Athletic Association
The name of this hotel is a little misleading, as it is actually a stunning hotel set in a historic building. With upscale accommodations, a café, a gym, a bar, and rooftop dining with spectacular views across the city, you’ll love this hotel.
More information:
• 12 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago Loop, Chicago, IL 60603
• Avg. $466+ per night | See Chicago Athletic Association rates
#2. Top choice: Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel
This family-friendly hotel offers spacious, luxurious rooms and a fantastic pool that will help you relax during your stay. The spacious rooms and areas for gathering in the lobby, you’ll want to stay here every time you travel.
More information:
• 221 North Columbus Drive, Chicago Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
• Avg. $392+ per night | Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel rates
#3. Best budget friendly hotel in the Loop: Hyatt Regency Chicago
A good budget option is Hyatt Regency Chicago. This four-star hotel has all the modern amenities you need in your room, plus there is a bar, a fitness center, and an amazing restaurant.
More information:
• 151 East Wacker, Chicago Loop, Chicago, IL 60601
• Avg. $267+ per night | Check rates
We hope this post helped you have an idea of where you want to stay when visiting Chicago. If you are looking for things to do in Chicago, check out:
Safe Travels!
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