Adventure in every journey, joy in every day
Welcome to the Windy City! Chicago, a vibrant metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan, is famed for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, deep-dish pizza, and thriving arts scene. Whether you’re visiting for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, finding the right place to stay is key to an unforgettable trip. With countless options ranging from opulent suites to budget-friendly rooms, navigating Chicago’s accommodation landscape can be daunting.
This guide is designed to simplify your search. We’ve curated a list of top-rated Chicago hotels, meticulously categorized into Luxury, Mid-Range, and Budget tiers, ensuring there’s something for every traveler and every wallet. We’ll explore the unique features and advantages of each hotel, providing factual information to help you make an informed decision.
Get ready to discover your perfect Chicago home base, complete with insights into approximate costs and standout amenities. Let’s dive into the best places to stay in Chicago!
Luxury Escapes: Chicago’s Finest Hotels (Approx. $450+ per night)
Indulge in Unparalleled Comfort and Service
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, Chicago boasts several world-renowned hotels offering impeccable service, lavish amenities, and prime locations. Expect sophisticated design, gourmet dining, state-of-the-art spas, and breathtaking city or lake views.
The Peninsula Chicago
Price Range: $$$$$ (Approx. $600+ per night)
Features & Benefits: Located on the Magnificent Mile, The Peninsula offers timeless elegance and Far Eastern graciousness. Known for its award-winning spa, stunning indoor pool with skyline views, acclaimed restaurants (including Shanghai Terrace), and sophisticated afternoon tea service. Rooms feature intuitive technology and luxurious marble bathrooms. Its central location provides easy access to high-end shopping and cultural attractions.
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Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
Price Range: $$$$$ (Approx. $550+ per night)
Features & Benefits: Situated high above the Magnificent Mile in the 900 North Michigan skyscraper, the Four Seasons offers unparalleled views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. It features recently renovated, residentially inspired guest rooms and suites, a luxurious spa, an indoor pool with a Romanesque design, and exceptional dining options. Known for its family-friendly amenities and personalized service, it provides direct access to premium shopping.
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The Langham, Chicago
Price Range: $$$$$ (Approx. $500+ per night)
Features & Benefits: Housed within a landmark skyscraper designed by Mies van der Rohe along the Chicago River, The Langham combines modern sophistication with timeless glamour. Guests enjoy spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning river or city views, the Chuan Spa focusing on traditional Chinese medicine wellness, a state-of-the-art health club, and refined dining experiences like Travelle. Its location provides convenient access to both the Loop and River North districts.
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Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Price Range: $$$$$ (Approx. $500+ per night)
Features & Benefits: Located in the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood, the Waldorf Astoria exudes Parisian-inspired elegance. The hotel features spacious suites, many with fireplaces and private terraces, a renowned spa and health club, and sophisticated dining options. Its cobblestone courtyard entrance sets a tone of exclusivity and tranquility, while still being steps away from Oak Street’s designer boutiques and Rush Street’s vibrant nightlife.
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Park Hyatt Chicago
Price Range: $$$$$ (Approx. $480+ per night)
Features & Benefits: Overlooking the historic Water Tower Square on the Magnificent Mile, the Park Hyatt offers understated luxury and a significant collection of contemporary art. Guests enjoy spacious, residentially styled rooms, many with window seats offering stunning lake views. Amenities include the NoMI Kitchen restaurant (known for its garden terrace), a sophisticated lounge, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Its prime location is ideal for exploring shopping, dining, and cultural landmarks.
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Comfort & Value: Excellent Mid-Range Stays (Approx. $200 – $400 per night)
Stylish Comfort Without the Luxury Price Tag
Chicago’s mid-range hotels offer a fantastic balance of comfort, style, and value. These properties often feature trendy designs, desirable locations, quality amenities like fitness centers and on-site dining, and attentive service, making them ideal for both leisure and business travelers seeking a great experience without breaking the bank.
Thompson Chicago
Price Range: $$$$ (Approx. $250 – $450 per night)
Features & Benefits: Located in the chic Gold Coast neighborhood, Thompson Chicago blends sophisticated mid-century modern design with urban cool. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with city or lake views, plush bedding, and stylish bathrooms. The hotel boasts Nico Osteria, a popular Italian seafood restaurant, a lively lobby bar, and a well-equipped fitness center. Its location offers proximity to Oak Street Beach, high-end shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
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LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
Price Range: $$$$ (Approx. $280 – $480 per night)
Features & Benefits: Set in a beautifully restored historic building on the corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, LondonHouse offers stunning architecture and river views. Its main draw is the tri-level rooftop bar, LH Rooftop, offering panoramic city vistas. Rooms are modern and comfortable. Amenities include a full-service spa, a 24-hour fitness center, and sophisticated event spaces. Its location is perfect for exploring the Riverwalk, Millennium Park, and the Loop.
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Kimpton Gray Hotel
Price Range: $$$ (Approx. $220 – $400 per night)
Features & Benefits: Housed in a historic Loop building, the Kimpton Gray Hotel impresses with its original Georgia Gray marble lobby and contemporary design. Rooms are stylish and well-appointed. Standout features include Boleo, a vibrant rooftop restaurant and lounge with a retractable roof, and Vol. 39, a sophisticated lobby bar. Guests appreciate the complimentary evening wine hour, fitness center, and pet-friendly policies. Its location in the Financial District is convenient for business travelers and exploring the Loop’s architectural gems.
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Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago
Price Range: $$$ (Approx. $200 – $380 per night)
Features & Benefits: Located in the heart of the Loop, this hotel offers modern rooms designed for comfort and efficiency. It features AIRE, a popular rooftop bar with great city views, Cochon Volant Brasserie for French-inspired dining, a 24-hour fitness center, and convenient access to public transportation. Its central location makes it easy to walk to Millennium Park, the Art Institute, theaters, and corporate offices.
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AC Hotel by Marriott Chicago Downtown
Price Range: $$$ (Approx. $180 – $350 per night)
Features & Benefits: Situated in the vibrant River North neighborhood, this AC Hotel offers European-inspired design with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. Rooms are sleek and functional. Amenities include the AC Lounge (serving tapas and craft cocktails), the AC Kitchen (European-style breakfast), a well-equipped fitness center, and an indoor pool. Its location is excellent for exploring nearby art galleries, restaurants, and the Magnificent Mile.
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Smart Savings: Top Budget-Friendly Options (Approx. Under $180 per night)
Affordable Stays Without Sacrificing Location or Basic Comforts
Traveling to Chicago on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on a decent place to stay. The city offers several excellent budget-friendly hotels and hostels, often featuring stylish communal areas, clean basic rooms (sometimes with shared facilities), and convenient locations close to public transport and attractions. These options are perfect for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone looking to maximize their exploration funds.
Freehand Chicago
Price Range: $$ (Approx. $50 – $180 per night for dorms/private rooms)
Features & Benefits: Located in a classic 1927 building in River North, Freehand Chicago combines the social atmosphere of a hostel with upscale design. It offers a mix of shared dorms and private rooms, all stylishly decorated. The highlight is The Broken Shaker, an award-winning cocktail bar, and Cafe Integral, a Nicaraguan coffee shop. Its central location, vibrant common areas, and unique blend of affordability and style make it a popular choice.
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Found Hotel Chicago River North
Price Range: $$ (Approx. $70 – $190 per night)
Features & Benefits: Found Hotel offers affordable private and shared rooms in the desirable River North neighborhood. The focus is on communal experiences, with shared spaces designed for socializing and co-working. Rooms are efficiently designed and clean. While amenities are basic, the hotel provides essentials like free Wi-Fi and a central location close to restaurants, bars, and public transport, offering great value for budget-conscious travelers.
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HI Chicago Hostel
Price Range: $ (Approx. $40 – $150 per night for dorms/private rooms)
Features & Benefits: Located in the South Loop within walking distance of Millennium Park, Grant Park, and museum campus, HI Chicago is one of the largest hostels in the US. It offers clean dormitory-style rooms and some private rooms, catering primarily to backpackers and students. Features include a large common room, a self-catering kitchen, free daily activities and tours, and free Wi-Fi. It’s a great place to meet fellow travelers and explore the city affordably.
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Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago
Price Range: $$ (Approx. $90 – $200 per night)
Features & Benefits: Offering one of the best budget locations right in the heart of the Loop near Grant Park and Millennium Park, Travelodge provides basic, clean accommodations. Rooms typically include free Wi-Fi and coffee makers. While amenities are limited compared to higher-tier hotels, its unbeatable location for sightseeing and access to public transport makes it a solid choice for travelers prioritizing location and affordability over extensive facilities.
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Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago
Price Range: $$ (Approx. $100 – $220 per night)
Features & Benefits: A historic hotel dating back to 1893, the Congress Plaza offers a prime location overlooking Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain. While known for its history (and rumored hauntings), it provides basic, often spacious rooms at competitive prices for its location. Amenities include multiple dining options and large event spaces. It’s a choice for those who appreciate historic character and an excellent location over modern luxury, offering significant value.
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Beyond Your Hotel: Exploring Chicago
Now that you have some ideas for where to stay, let’s talk about what to do! Chicago is brimming with incredible sights, activities, and culinary delights.
Must-See Attractions
- Millennium Park: Home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (“The Bean”), Crown Fountain, and Pritzker Pavilion. A must-visit for photos and public art.
- Art Institute of Chicago: One of the oldest and largest art museums in the world, housing an extensive collection including famous Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works.
- Navy Pier: A bustling pier on Lake Michigan featuring rides (like the Centennial Wheel), gardens, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Willis Tower (Skydeck Chicago): Step out onto The Ledge, glass balconies extending from the 103rd floor, for thrilling views of the city.
- Magnificent Mile: Chicago’s premier commercial district, packed with upscale shops, restaurants, hotels, and architectural landmarks.
Engaging Activities
- Architecture River Cruise: Widely regarded as the best way to appreciate Chicago’s stunning architecture. Several companies offer guided tours along the Chicago River.
- Visit Museum Campus: Explore the Field Museum (natural history), Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium, all conveniently located near each other.
- Catch a Show: Chicago has a vibrant theatre scene, from Broadway productions in the Loop’s Theatre District to innovative performances at Steppenwolf or Goodman Theatre.
- Explore Neighborhoods: Venture beyond downtown to explore unique areas like Wicker Park (trendy boutiques, street art), Lincoln Park (zoo, conservatory, green space), or Pilsen (vibrant murals, Mexican culture).
- Bike the Lakefront Trail: Rent a bike and enjoy scenic views along the 18-mile paved path bordering Lake Michigan.
A Taste of Chicago
- Deep-Dish Pizza: You can’t visit Chicago without trying its famous deep-dish pizza. Iconic spots include Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, Pequod’s, and Pizzeria Uno.
- Chicago-Style Hot Dog: An all-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun, topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. (No ketchup!) Try one at Portillo’s or The Wieners Circle.
- Italian Beef Sandwich: Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef simmered in au jus, served on a dense Italian-style roll. Get it “dipped” or “wet” for extra flavor. Al’s #1 Italian Beef is a classic choice.
- Fine Dining: Chicago boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and innovative culinary experiences. Explore options in the West Loop’s “Restaurant Row” or River North.
- Garrett Popcorn: A Chicago tradition, famous for the “Garrett Mix” – a blend of caramel crisp and cheese corn.
For even more ideas and detailed planning resources, the city’s official tourism website is an excellent starting point:
Explore Chicago Attractions & Activities via Choose Chicago
This link directs you to the official Choose Chicago website’s “Things to Do” section, offering comprehensive, up-to-date information on attractions, events, and tours.
Wrapping Up Your Chicago Stay
Chicago truly offers accommodation for every style and budget. From the sheer opulence of its luxury hotels lining the Magnificent Mile and the riverfront, to the stylish comfort of mid-range properties in vibrant neighborhoods, and the smart, social options available for budget-conscious travelers, you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
We hope this guide, featuring factual details on Luxury, Mid-Range, and Budget hotels, helps you narrow down your choices. Remember to consider location, desired amenities, and your budget when making your final decision. Using the search tool provided above or checking availability through the links can help you secure the best rates for your dates.
“Eventually, I think Chicago will be the most beautiful great city left in the world.” – Frank Lloyd Wright
Prepare for an amazing trip filled with stunning architecture, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences. Chicago awaits!
What are you most excited to experience in Chicago? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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