MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Chicago

Where to Stay in Chicago

Chicago Illinois, USA Travel Guide

Selecting Your Stay

Hotel Choices

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end amenities and service, often in prime locations.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Unique design and customized experiences.

  • Chain Hotels

    Reliable standards and widespread availability.

  • Extended Stay

    Apartment-style lodging with kitchens for longer travels.

Factors

  • Location

    Proximity to attractions, transport, or quiet neighborhoods.

  • Budget

    Options across all price points to fit your financial plan.

  • Amenities

    Consider pool, gym, complimentary breakfast, or pet policies.

  • Guest Reviews

    Insights from past guests inform your decision.

Online Booking Platforms

Employ these platforms to compare various accommodation types, rates, and availability across Chicago.

Hotels

Pros
  • Consistent service
  • On-site amenities like restaurants and gyms
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Front desk support
Cons
  • Less space than rentals
  • Less local living experience
  • Can be costly for families
  • Limited access to a kitchen

Vacation Rentals

Pros
  • Extra room and seclusion
  • Kitchen facilities save on dining
  • Authentic local neighborhood experience
  • Good for groups or families
Cons
  • No daily housekeeping
  • Fewer hotel-style services
  • Check-in processes vary
  • Can have strict cancellation policies

Hostels & Budget Stays

Pros
  • Highly cost-effective
  • Social environment for meeting travelers
  • Often centrally located spots
  • Organized activities and tours
Cons
  • Shared dorms offer less privacy
  • Communal bathrooms
  • Can be noisy
  • Limited individual space

Booking Tips

Book Early

Secure better rates and availability, especially during peak seasons or major events.

Check Cancellation Policies

Familiarize yourself with terms for flexibility in your travel plans.

Specialized Stays

Going going beyond traditional lodging, Chicago has special ways to experience the city.

Boutique Hotels

  • Unique design and artistic flair
  • Personalized guest service
  • Distinctive dining and bar experiences
  • Often positioned in neighborhoods

Eco-Friendly Accommodation

  • Green certifications and sustainable practices
  • Emphasis on recycling and waste reduction
  • Energy-efficient operations
  • Water conservation efforts

Housesitting & Home Exchanges

Community-Based Options
  • Stay in a local home, often in exchange for pet or house care.
  • Offers a full cultural immersion into a neighborhood.
  • Can dramatically cut lodging expenses.
  • Requires flexibility and communication with hosts.
Affiliate Resource

Affiliate Resources for Booking

General Platforms

Booking.com
Agoda

Hotel Chains

IHG Hotels

Specialized Bookings

Hostelworld (budget stays)
Vrbo (vacation rentals)

Premium & Group Stays

For those seeking luxury or traveling with a larger party, Chicago has tailored solutions.

Luxury Hotels

Historic Grandeur

Stay in iconic establishments like the Palmer House Hilton.

  • Opulent architecture and interiors.
  • Exceptional service standards.
  • Fine dining options on site.
  • Central city locations.
Modern Elegance

Contemporary luxury hotels with cutting-edge design and amenities.

  • Panoramic skyline or lakeside vistas.
  • State-of-the-art fitness centers and spas.
  • Sophisticated bar and lounge areas.
  • Personalized concierge support.

Waterfront Accommodations

Lakefront Views

Hotels situated along Lake Michigan offer breathtaking vistas.

  • Direct access to Lakefront Trail.
  • Proximity to Navy Pier and beaches.
  • Rooms with scenic lake panoramas.
  • Calm ambiance away from city bustle.
River North Stays

Hotels near the Chicago Riverwalk with surroundings.

  • Easy access to architectural boat tours.
  • Surrounded by diverse dining and nightlife.
  • Urban views of the stream from many rooms.
  • Close to the central business district attractions.

Family-Friendly Stays

  • Spacious Suites

    Accommodations with separate living and sleeping areas.

  • Kids' Programs

    Hotels with specialized activities or facilities for children.

  • Dining Options

    On-on-site restaurants with kid-friendly menus or else room service.

  • Morning Meal included

    Complimentary breakfast simplifies morning routines.

Accessibility-Focused Stays

  • Accessible Rooms

    Rooms designed with qualities for mobility impairments.

  • Roll-in Showers

    Showers designed for easy wheelchair access.

  • Service Animal Policy

    Clear guidelines for guests traveling with service animals.

  • Visual/Audio Aids

    Rooms with visual alarms or TTY capabilities.

Short-Term Rentals Considerations

Local Regulations

Be aware that some Chicago neighborhoods or buildings have specific regulations or restrictions on short-term rentals. Check listing details carefully.

  • Confirm legality with host or platform.
  • Familiarize yourself with building rules.
  • Respect local community guidelines.
  • Choose reputable booking platforms.
Host Communication

Clear communication with your host is important for a smooth stay, specifically for check-in/out procedures and local tips.

  • Ask questions before booking.
  • Confirm arrival instructions.
  • Clarify any house rules.
  • Maintain open dialogue during your stay.

Group Accommodation

Large Vacation Rentals

Suitable for large families or friends traveling together, offering communal spaces.

Connecting Hotel Rooms

Lots of accommodations have adjoining rooms, providing privacy alongside convenience.

Group Discounts

Certain lodgings or hostels extend special rates for larger bookings.

← Previous
Getting Around Chicago
← Back to Chicago
Next →
Best Restaurants in Chicago

Next Up: Best Restaurants in Chicago. Food, Dining, Local Cuisine

Continue to Best Restaurants in Chicago
Where to Stay in Chicago. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation