As you can read in our article on things to do in Chicago, this is one of the most visited American cities, not only for tourism but also for work, as it is the location of many international congresses. Accommodation possibilities are therefore endless, from hostels to the most luxurious hotels, suiting all needs.
Of course, in addition to the period of low/high season linked to the climate of Chicago and other factors, the accommodation’s location in regard to the city’s central area will also affect the cost of the stay. The best places to stay in Chicago are the central ones, such as the Loop and the Near North Side, but the South Side area, while decentralized, is also interesting, with significantly lower prices and good transport links to the center.
So let’s take a look at the best neighborhoods to stay in Chicago.
Contents
Chicago Loop: right in the center
Amidst the majestic skyscrapers and the greenery of Millennium Park and Grant Park, there are several, expensive hotels, being in the middle of the Loop and a few blocks from the Magnificent Mile (the shopping street and center of economy), but that guarantee you a stay with all the comforts.
The Loop is indeed the historical and economic center of the city of Chicago, with its countless clubs and entertainment opportunities, but its charm is due to the exceptional skyline, which includes the Sears Tower, the tallest skyscraper in America, and the particular-looking Aqua Tower.
Accessibility to public transport is well organized, of course, allowing you to move around the area easily and visit the Museum of Fine Arts, the Hancock Observatory, or admire the sculpture called The Chicago Picasso, made by the master of cubism in the Loop. Here are some tips on where to stay in the area:
- Virgin Hotels Chicago The hospitality of this hotel is top-notch, both in the communal areas and in the private ones: the rooms are large, spacious, accessorized and equipped with all the amenities we would expect from a 4-star hotel in Chicago. One of its gems? The terrace on the top floor with a view of all of Chicago and the aperitifs offered at the bar.
-
Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown/N Loop/Michigan Ave As we mentioned, it’s tough to find a budget hotel in the Chicago Loop. The only way is to look for 3-star hotels that have a few rooms to offer at slightly more favorable prices. The Hampton Inn may satisfy this need. The hotel chain is not luxury, but the service is still aimed at the comfort and convenience of the traveler.
Find accommodation in the Chicago Loop area
Near North Side: an excellent compromise
This area of Chicago is a great compromise for a centrally located stay without spending too much. Across the Chicago River, it’s off the main streets (which can be chaotic), but with everything you need nearby.
The North Side is also full of places of interest, starting with the lake view, with its romantic shores on Lake Michigan, and also offers several attractions on Navy Pier and great green spaces to escape the oppression of the city, such as Lincoln Park.
However, there are also impressive skyscrapers and architectural masterpieces here, including Trump Tower, Tribune Tower, The Water Tower Place and the John Hancock Center, as well as artistic tours at the many museums and theaters. A great area to sleep.
-
The Langham Chicago Reassuringly contemporary design, huge glass windows with city and lake views, classy amenities and location make The Langham a first-rate hotel. Spa and pool are available, as well as a restaurant and bar where, in addition to excellent cuisine, guests can enjoy evening entertainment.
- Freehand Chicago The fact that the Freehand is more of a youth hostel than a hotel doesn’t mean you should prepare to sleep in vagrant-like conditions. Although the rooms are a bit small, they are clean and basic. Perhaps, if you don’t like crowded food halls, you’ll avoid having breakfast in the hostel bar.
Find accommodation in Near North Side
South Side: not to be underestimated…
This neighborhood is located just south of the Loop, beyond the Near South Side, and is another area suitable for a stay that will meet your main needs, with a good quality-price ratio. It is an area that has always been characterized by a strong mixture of cultures and ethnicities, especially the Bronzeville neighborhood, a historical one for the African-American community, and where you can visit the museum dedicated to it.
Precisely for this reason, the area was often considered unsafe, but in recent times the situation has definitely changed and, according to many, offers a great example of multiculturalism and education, thanks to the influence of the University of Chicago.
The South Side is also home to Chicago’s Midway Airport, the main international gateway to the city. Here, there are fewer large buildings and the main tourist attractions are represented by the architecture of Ida Wells House, the Victory Monument and the Fountain of the Great Lakes.
Connections to downtown are excellent, so it can be a great base for sightseeing. Here are the hotels that I recommend:
-
Best Western Plus Hyde Park Chicago Hotel: Best Western hotels are a guarantee. This one, located in South Side, right by the lake, is no different. The hotel is well connected to downtown by shuttle and offers good amenities, including a gym and a golf course.
-
Chicago South Loop Hotel : The advantages and disadvantages of choosing this mid-range hotel balance out. On the one hand, you save money compared to downtown establishments, and on the other hand, you are far from the main attractions. The problem does not exist if you are willing to use public transport.
Find accommodation in South Side
Places stay near the Chicago airport
In Chicago there are 2 airports, the most important one, Chicago-O’Hare International Airport, and the one mainly used by low cost airlines, Chicago Midway International Airport. Both are not very far from the city, but still a bit decentralized from Downtown and from the main attractions of the city. For this reason, it is a suitable choice for those who are traveling for business or just passing through the city. For tourists, the districts indicated in this article are undoubtedly the best solutions.
Accommodations near Chicago O’Hare
We recommend:
-
Sonesta Simply Suites Chicago – O’Hare Just a few miles from O’Hare, the Sonesta is one of the best motels in the area. Since those looking for such accommodations have a strategic stopover in mind, it doesn’t hurt to find a place where the stay is comfortable. The suites at this hotel are also equipped with a kitchen, for greater guest independence. A shuttle is available that shuttles guests to the airport.
-
Hampton Inn Chicago-Midway Airport If you need to get to Chicago Midway International instead, you’ll need to find a good foothold in the area. A good compromise between quality and price is the Hampton Inn, which includes a continental breakfast and a shuttle to the hotel in the rate.
Finding accommodation outside the area
If you prefer to search for a hotel regardless of the area or neighborhood, you can click on the link below and then filter your search by other needs (stars, price distance from attractions etc…). Enjoy your stay in Chicago!
