Best Chicago Suburbs To Stay In

Hyde Park And Kenwood

For a true experience of culture and history in Chicago, head south to Hyde Park, home to the Worlds Columbian Exposition in 1893 and Kenwood, home to some of Chicagos grandest homes, including one belonging to Barack and Michelle Obama.

This neighborhood is home to the University of Chicago and its striking Gothic campus, first designed by renowned architect Henry Ives Cobb and then added to by Eero Saarinen and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and others for a modern feel. The famed Frank Lloyd Wright Frederick C. Robie House sits on the campus, and you can take in one of the best views of the Chicago skyline from Promontory Point.

Hyde Park has long been a center of Black culture in Chicago with the DuSable Museum of African American History but also with food at Virtue, a heralded Southern restaurant from famed chef Erick Williams, or Jamaican jerk chicken at JaGrill. Catch an array of live musicrock, electronic, dance, jazz, and moreat the Promontory.

Best Hotels In Downtown Chicago

Luxury: Pendry Hotel

Pendry Hotel is inner city class. The hotel is set in an industrial-looking high rise, right at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Place. It is one of the best hotels to stay in Chicago if you want luxury facilities. Pendry Hotel has a fitness suite, business center, restaurant, and terrace. See rates, reviews and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Mid-range: Hotel Blake

Hotel Blake is a boutique hotel situated between Grant and Millennium Park. Like Pendry Hotel, Hotel Blake has an old-money class. But the prices are slightly lower than those at Pendry Hotel, so perfect if you have a mid-range budget in mind.

It has a fantastic location and is just a ten-minute walk from the Chicago Art Institute. Hotel Blake has a fitness center, restaurant, 24-hour business center, and free wifi. Compare rates and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking

Budget: HI Chicago Hostel

Finding a budget place to stay in Chicago can be challenging, especially downtown. HI Chicago Hostel is an excellent option if you can get a space this hostel is always in demand. HI Chicago Hostel has a games room, lounge, and 24-hour reception. You can choose a private or dorm room, too. Compare Rates and Availability on TripAdvisor / Booking

VRBO: Stylish two-bedroom apartment

Best Neighborhoods & Places To Stay In Chicago

In total, there are 77 neighborhoods in Chicago each with its own distinct atmosphere and feel. Situated on the western shore of Lake Michigan, the city is organized by a grid layout with the Chicago River further geographically dividing it into the North Side, South Side, and West Side. Meanwhile, the central downtown area of the city is called The Loop.

Lets take a look at the best places to stay in the third most populated city in the US.

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Best Place To Stay In Chicago With Family

As a family visiting any city, your priorities when looking for a place to stay should be space, security and proximity to attractions.

With this criterion in mind, the best places to stay in Chicago with family are Gold Coast and Lincoln Park.

There are numerous hotels in all budget brackets for you to choose from.

You could also choose to rent one of the many beautiful homes whether it is a waterfront highrise apartment or a townhouse in the more old-school part of the community.

So what is there to see or do in this place?

For food adventures, Third Coast Café is a family-friendly restaurant open from 7am to 11pm.

It serves American cuisine and caters to all your meal needs from breakfast to late evening cravings.

The Original Pancake House is a popular breakfast-all-day spot for locals and tourists alike. They serve artisanal breakfast items with unique twists that your family will definitely enjoy.

The Lincoln Park Zoo is great fun for kids. It is one of the oldest zoos in America and is home to some pretty magnificent beasts.

The zoo also offers access to numerous souvenir shops and eateries. The best part: the entrance is FREE.

Another great family activity is the Painted Penguin. This is a center that allows your kids to tap into their inner Picasso.

They get to work on everything from painting landscapes to decorating blank sculptures.

Suggested accommodations in this area:

Budget Hotels In Downtown Chicago

If you are looking to where to stay in Chicago near the Magnificent Mile, here are a few budget-friendly recommendations:

Address: 166 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

There are 216 total rooms and suites in the Magnificent Mile Collection of the Chicago Hotel Collection. This hotel is located just a few blocks from Chicagos famous Michigan Avenue and Lincoln Park. It is one of the best hotels to stay in Chicago to be close to its most known attractions.

Address: 323 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Swissotel Chicago is within a 10-minute walk away from the waters edge, located in the heart of downtown, just steps from the Magnificent Miles finest boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife this glass-and-steel triangle hotel offers a unique perspective of the city.

See Related:Do You Need a Car in Chicago? 7 Things to Know

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Best Hostel In Downtown/the Loop: Hi Chicago

At HI Chicago, guests have all of the citys top tourist attractions, art galleries, museums, shops, and restaurants right at their doorstep. This hostel is massive and comes complete with more than 500 comfortable beds. Its the perfect place to relax after a long day out in Chi-Town, get remote work done, or make new friends!

Bonus : Best Hotels Near The Two Chicago Airports

In case you have a very early or very late flight, a great idea for you could be to book a hotel thats as close to the airport as possible! Chicago has not one, but two international airports OHare International Airport and Midway International Airport.

Below Ill be talking about both of them and Ill give you some hotel options for each of them:

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Where To Stay In Chicago: Best Areas And Hotels For 2022

Chicago is the best. The largest city in Illinois is one of the most exciting cities in the United States. It has a skyline that would turn most cities green with envy and has vibrant city life and culture. Chicago is also situated on the shores of Lake Michigan and even has waterfront and watersport activities on offer.

Of course, as the third most populated city in the United States, it is no wonder that the windy city is full of things to do and places to eat. The massive city has lots of different neighborhoods with different qualities. This guide will cover where to stay in Chicago and which areas you should choose.

Well introduce you to each of Chicagos best areas. From the citys trendiest neighborhoods to its most convenient, lets delve into where to stay in Chicago.

Dont Forget Travel Insurance For Chicago

Having good travel insurance for when things dont turn out as planned is a lifesaver. Better safe than sorry.

Its good to get lost sometimes, but its also good not to get too lost. There are people that want you home in one piece.

Theres one travel insurance provider The Broke Backpacker trusts for all his wildest shenanigans World Nomads!

And then let the shenanigans begin.

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Rentals In Printers Row

Printers Row is a vibrant, diverse neighborhood located on the south side of Chicago. Its known for its history and architecture, as well as its proximity to downtown Chicago.

One great option is the Sonder The Plymouth. This apartment is located in a gorgeous historic building and has hardwood floors throughout the common areas, including the living, dining room, and kitchen. The bedroom has carpeting, but its all very clean and comfortable. It also has three full baths!

More other rentals are available on the website, which varies from apartment units, condo units, and hotel suites for you to choose from for your stay in Chicago.

If youre looking for the best Chicago neighborhood to raise your family, look no further than Edison Park.

Located just north of the citys downtown area and nestled between two of Chicagos most famous neighborhoodsWicker Park and Logan SquareEdison Park is a haven for families who want to be close enough to the city to enjoy all it has to offer, but far enough away that they can enjoy peace and quiet at home.

This small community offers plenty of amenities, from parks and playgrounds to local shops, restaurants, and even a movie theater. It also has easy access to public transportation options like Metra trains and buses that will take you anywhere you want to go in the city.

Here are some of the best things to do in Edison Park:

West Loop/near West Side

Home of the basketball legend Michael Jordans former stomping ground,, Near West Side is home to a number of Chicagos well-admired cultural landmarks, including the Blues Brothers, the deep-dish pizza, the blues, and the Chicago-style hot dog. A major port of entry for Chicago throughout the 1800s and the early part of the 1900s, Near West Side was once home to Oprah Winfrey. Now recognized for the two culinary streets, Little Italy and Greektown, the neighborhood also comprises the West Loop, home of many elite restaurants, flourishing gallery scene, and quite a few museums. If you are here for the weekend, dont miss a visit to the New Maxwell Street Market.

Good for: All kinds of travelers, especially food-lovers.Others Highlights: Jane Addams Hull House Museum, National Hellenic Museum, Andrew Rafacz Gallery, Donald Young Gallery, National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, and Saint Ignatius College Prep.

Hotel Recommendations:

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Where To Stay In Chicago On A Budget

Although the city’s less expensive lodgings are priced higher than most destinations, there are some options with reasonable rates that are in good neighborhoods. The Hotel Versey – Days Inn is in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, just a few blocks from Diversey Harbor and a 20-minute walk to Wrigley Field. The lobby immediately gives you a sense of its upbeat, quirky atmosphere, where you will find Chicago murals in the clean, well-kept rooms.

You can also find some very affordable options at the pet-friendly La Quinta Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown, which is close to the Skydeck Chicago and the Money Museum, and is across the river from Union Station. A hot breakfast is included, a rarity in the city, and there are self-serve laundry facilities.

Choose The Right Time To Travel

Timing your visit to Chicago is everything. This is a popular tourist destination, and even more people visit during federal holidays and school breaks. It may be smart for you to try to schedule your visits around these times. See my full guide to the best time to visit Chicago for more info.

Also, unless you love cold weather, avoid Chicago during the winter Chicago winters are notoriously harsh!

No matter what season youre visiting, be sure to check out our Chicago essentials packing checklist to prepare for your trip!

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Living In Magnificent Mile Or The Loop: Which District Is Best

Chicago is a fun and exciting city with extravagant shopping, incredible architecture, live music, fantastic restaurants, and electric clubs. Undoubtedly, Chicago is a town thats worth your money and time.

If youre seriously considering staying downtown and asking where to stay in Chicago downtown, then you need to choose between the Loop and Mag Mile. While the decision to pick either of these two is personal, some factors can influence your decision to settle in one of the districts, such as:

Preferred Lifestyle

If you enjoy quiet and dont crave nightlife, then the Loop is for you. However, if you prefer the noise, shopping, nightlife, and major tourist attractions, you might want to consider staying at Magnificent Mile.

Commuting Needs

Thanks to Chicagos robust transit system, navigating the vast city is easy. Theres an expansive network of trains and buses that are relatively inexpensive, safe, and efficient.So whether youre in the Loop or Magnificent Mile, you dont need to worry about commuting as youd be using either the subway, taxi, or bus.

Living Costs

Both districts have moderately high living costs. However, due to the high-scale restaurants, shopping centers, and boutiques in Magnificent Mile, you might be tempted to go out and spend more than those living in the quiet and business-dominated areas of the Loop.

Gold Coast And Lincoln Park

The Gold Coast is an exclusive neighborhood in the northern parts of Chicago right next to Lake Michigan.

With its beautiful combination of modern highrise buildings and traditional stand-alone homes, The Gold Coast contributes a great deal to the citys skyline.

This affluent part of town is for the most part very calm and quiet and would, therefore, be perfect if you are looking to escape the hustle and noise of livelier Chicago districts.

A little further north you will find the Lincoln Park community.

Here, you will find the world-famous zoo with the same name, numerous galleries and a thriving food scene.

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Best Hotels In The West Loop

Luxury: Nobu Hotel, Chicago

Nobu Hotel is a dreamy level of luxury. The dark color scheme adds a relaxed, mysterious atmosphere to the property. And what could be more relaxing than dining with city views on the rooftop after a swim in a dimly lit indoor pool? See it on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Mid-range: The Publishing House Bed and Breakfast

The Publishing House is already a favorite, and youll need to book ahead to secure a spot for your stay in Chicago. The hotel building is a traditional, industrial red brick. Each room retains some original features for the character yet has been beautifully renovated for ultimate comfort. The cherry on top is the buffet breakfast, available for most room options every morning. Compare prices and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Budget: Hotel Chicago West Loop

Hotel Chicago West Loop is a straightforward accommodation option at one of the lowest prices in the area. Each room features a microwave and coffee machine, which is great for saving money on eating out. There is also a 24-hour gym and reception. Book it now on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

VRBO: West Loop One-Bedroom Apartment

This property is everything you want in a vacation rental. The apartment comes with stunning city views, ample living space, comfortable furnishings, and the use of a gym and pool. Couples or solo travelers will love this accommodation choice, especially considering its fantastic location. Search for this and more apartment rentals on VRBO

River North Best Area To Stay In Chicago For Nightlife

River North is located to the immediate west of Streeterville and north of The Loop, just off the Magnificent Mile .

The area is known for its vibrant nightlife with options to satisfy happy hour goers and those seeking a full night out as well as its impressive supply of art galleries, clustered in the northwest corner of the neighborhood.

Youll also find a decent choice of restaurants and places to shop if youre planning on engaging with some retail therapy while in the city.

If youre looking for some recommendations to kickstart your stay in the best part of Chicago to stay in for nightlife, check out Celeste for a swanky meal, Howl at the Moon for late nights and live music, or Gilt Bar for sophisticated cocktails in an elegant setting with a literary theme.

Pros and cons of staying in River North

PROS

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Overview Of Where To Stay In Chicago

Before we tackle the best parts of Chicago to stay in, lets run over the layout and landscape of the city.

Located in the state of Illinois on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan one of the five Great Lakes of North America Chicago sits behind New York and Los Angeles as the third-largest city in the US.

Covering 235 square miles , the city comprises 77 community areas that are often grouped into 9 districts within which you will find additional neighborhoods. The areas that I have selected for this guide sit within the more central districts.

As a beacon for finance, culture, industry, education, technology, and tourism, Chicago has received a whole stream of accolades: for beauty, the high standard of living, and as one of the overall best large cities in the country.

Known for its remarkable urban skyline, the city is equally blessed with outdoor spaces including over 20 public beaches and almost 600 public parks, each brimming with statues, fountains, and manicured gardens.

The best areas to stay in Chicago place you within easy access to the top landmarks and attractions.

Getting around Chicago is a breeze thanks to a fantastic network of subway trains, commuter trains, and public buses. In the more central areas, then you can walk most places.

If you are visiting the city as part of a road trip then you will need to book a hotel with parking or stay further out to avoid the hefty parking fees.

Things To Do In Lincoln Park

The best part about the neighborhood is its 1,200-acre park, also called Lincoln Park. The park has everything from Lincoln Park Zoo to its own lifeguard-patrolled beach, North Avenue Beach. Lincoln Park Zoo is an excellent spot for a family day out, and North Avenue Beach is the best place for a swim or game of volleyball. On a rainy day, Lincoln Park Conservatory is a godsend, and you can easily spend an hour or two exploring indoors.

The streets themselves in Lincoln Park are safe and friendly. Yet Lincoln Park is also well-suited to budget travel. You wont find the hoity-toity attitudes and sky-high prices that sometimes curse neighborhoods like Gold Coast and the Chicago Loop. If you are deciding where to stay in Chicago as a family or budget traveler, we recommend considering Lincoln Park.

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