Best Areas To Stay In Chicago
Before writing and suggesting the best areas to stay in Chicago let me give a quick sketch of how Chicago is organized on a map. Take this as a reference through the post.
In the map, I highlighted the top areas to stay in Chicago.
They all differ from each other and they do have their own character.
For example, I would never suggest families staying in River North, and you will understand why.
The most popular area to stay in the city is surely Chicago Downtown.
This is where you will have easy access to most of the popular attractions and shopping streets, besides great restaurants and bars.
Chicago Downtown is actually a macro area including a few neighborhoods:
- The loop
- River North
These areas have all their own identity, definitely different from Chicago Downtown.
Following is a short description for each area with later a few suggestions on the neighborood to book your stay based on the type of trip and experience you are looking for.
Things To Do In Near North Side
Ride the Centennial Wheel, walk through the Crystal Gardens, hop on a Lake Michigan speedboat tour, or grab dinner and drinks all at Chicagos famous Navy Pier. Peruse through Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and more stores in The Magnificent Mile shopping district. Visit the John Hancock Centers 360 Chicago Observation Deck, where you can check out Chi-Towns incredible skyline. Settle in for dinner, drinks, and amazing live music performances at House of Blues Chicago. Order the Roasted Bone Marrow or the Turkey Leg Confit at Mediterranean restaurant The Purple Pig. Stop in for an Old-Fashioned or Moscow mule with late-night samplers of chicken wings or stuffed meatballs at gastropub The VIG Chicago. Or check out Chicago hidden gem and underground bar Suite Lounge, where youll find handcrafted cocktails, martinis, and a large selection of beers and wines.
What Neighborhood To Stay In
I’m looking to plan a trip for June to Chicago. It will be me, my husband, my 12 yr old son and 14 yr old neice. Instead of a hotel, I would like to rent a house through VRBO.COM, but I have no idea what neighborhood I should be looking at. Any ideas?
If this helps, we’ve never been to Chicago, so we want to go to all the typical tourist areas. The kids aren’t into ‘learning on vacation’ so we won’t be visiting any museums.
Bucktown, Wicker Park, Lincoln Park and Lakeview neighborhoods would be desirable. All are close to downtown and are accessible via public transit.
I would try Embassy Suites. Are you bringing a car or planning on using public transport. There is a big issue with parking in Chicago. If you do VRBO and do not have a parking space or neighborhood sticker then parking can become a huge problem unless the rental furnishes you with a weeks worth of neighborhood guest parking stickers which you must affix to your windshield every day.
Thanks for the replies so far. The only reason we are looking at a rental vs a hotel is because I was thinking it would be cheaper since we would need 2 hotel rooms. Even if the average hotel is $150 per night, that’s still $300 a night. I think a rental would be cheaper. I’ll have to look out to see the parking situation.
Edited: 11 years ago
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Best Hotel In Downtown/the Loop: Central Loop Hotel
The Central Loop Hotel has stylish décor, spacious rooms and is centrally located in Downtown Chicago. It has a modern lounge bar, concierge service and a convenient 24-hour reception. Each room is air-conditioned and comes with coffee/tea facilities and on-demand movies. All of this combined makes it our choice for where to stay in Chicago in the Downtown area.
South Loop Where To Stay In Chicago For Museums
Situated on the lakefront Museum Campus, the South Loop is where youll find some of Chicagos grandest museums, as well as the Jazz Showcase, blues label Chess Records, and Buddy Guys Legends.
Here is where established and forthcoming artists alike seek out and showcase new work, with students, locals, and travelers coming together for lively nighttime events.
No stay in Chicago is complete without a walk through the South Loops elegant Prairie Avenue District, home of the Millionaires Row where many of Chicagos earliest elite set up residence.
Those who partake in a water taxi lake route tour can disembark directly in front of Shedd Aquarium, with the nearby Field Museum an ideal companion for your science-themed outing.
The South Loops stunning lakefront views make for some of the best hotel possibilities, although prices can run on the costlier side during peak seasons.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CHICAGO IN SOUTH LOOP
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How To Stay Safe In Chicago
Read:
The crime rate in Chicago is significantly high and if you choose to visit the city you have to take extra care at all times. Some specific parts of Chicago are very dangerous just like the ones mentioned above however, if you take precautions, you have nothing to worry about.
As much as you can, avoid the south side of the city. This area is known for gang activity and contains most of the worst neighborhoods in Chicago. If you are new to Chicago, make sure you avoid walking around alone especially at night. Stay close to well-lit paths and avoid dark areas. As long as you practice common sense, you will be safe.
Install A Home Security System
Home security systems are one of the best ways to protect your home from burglary and home invasion. Burglary is extremely common in Chicago, especially in the more dangerous neighborhoods. In dangerous neighborhoods, home security systems can be the difference between being a common target for burglary and one of the few homes that arent targeted.
According to studies, home security systems will deter 60 percent of burglars. If an alarm is triggered, 90 percent of burglars will choose to run rather than face the aftermaths of an alarm.
One of the best home security systems for Chicago homeowners and apartment owners is Cove Security. Cove Security offers DIY systems that can be installed inside the house in less than 10 minutes. The inexpensive systems also come with professional monitoring and remote monitoring to ensure that someone always has an eye on your home.
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Where To Stay In Pilsen
If you want to stay in Pilsen, you can find some good options on Airbnb, but if youre looking for a hotel, the historic Blackstone on Michigan Avenue overlooking Grant Park or the modern at McCormick Place are both within two miles of Pilsen.
Book the Blackstone: from $129/night, expedia.com
Book the Marriott Marquis: from $224/night, expedia.com
Wicker Park & Bucktown
Technically two separate neighborhoods divided by North Avenue, the area has generally gotten grouped together since its rise in popularity in the early 90s when such artists and musicians as Liz Phair and Urge Overkill gathered here, especially at bars like the Rainbo Club and rock venues like Subterranean.
Over the past two decades, the neighborhood has gentrified , but what has remained are hip independent shops like Una Maes, for a mix of vintage and contemporary mens and womens clothing, candles, apothecary, and more Myopic Books, one of Chicagos best selections of new and used bookswere talking 60,000 books stacked on those old wooden shelves and Asrai Garden for stunning floral design, jewelry, scents, and other distinctive offerings.
While you make a day of strolling and shopping, stop at Antique Taco for blood orange margaritas and crispy tempura cod or barbecue pork carnitas tacos, wood-fired pizza and meats at Etta, elevated Spanish fare at Mama Delia, classic red sauce Italian at Club Lucky, house-made pasta at Tortello, Costa Rican at Irazu, Southern-style tamales at the Delta, modern Filipino at Cebu, or seasonal tasting menu fare at the Bristol. The options are plentiful so wander until you find what grabs you.
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Where To Stay In Chicago Illinois: 5 Best Areas & Neighborhoods
Chicago is Americas second city and a perfect place to visit for music aficionados, sports fans, and foodies alike. While a lot of foreign travelers head to New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, Chicago still attracts its fair share of visitors.
In 2018, the city welcomed 58 million visitors, setting an all-new record. But what draws travelers to Chicago? The city has some of the most iconic tourist attractions in the United States and its cuisine is another top reason people visit the Windy City. If you are looking for a great area to stay in Chicago, then check out these neighborhoods for a brilliant stay.
Where To Stay In Chicago For A Unique Stay Wicker Park
Finally, if you are looking for a one-of-a-kind and truly Chicago authentic stay then Wicker Park is the place to go.
This place is as authentic Chicago as it gets.
From the architecture to the numerous decades-old family-owned restaurants, Wicker Park offers a really unique experience.
The boutique bars and unusual party scenes will also offer you a trip to remember.
Enso Sushi and Bar is set in an industrial-style building which adds to the charm and ambiance. It serves the best sushi and craft beers that you will get anywhere in Chicago.
Chop Shop is a must-visit, especially for its location.
This bar and deli is set on a rooftop deck in the heart of Wicker Park and truly comes to life at night.
With the beautiful multicolored seats, enchanting fairy lights and amazing food and drinks, it is going to be a really fun evening.
Suggested accommodations in this area:
- AirBnb & Apartments: 1549 North Maplewood , Boutique Wicker Park
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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: Avg. $290+ per night | Check rates
Lincoln Park Best Chicago Neighborhood For Families
When I was a youngin in Chicago, the Lincoln Park neighborhood was THE place to be. Today, my favorite dive bars have been replaced by Pilates studios and juice bars, making it the best place to stay in Chicago with kids. Just north of the Gold Coast, and centered on the park of the same name, Lincoln Park is still a trendy residential neighborhood with leafy streets lined with a few mansions and a lot of brownstones. Staying in Lincoln Park will give you a much more local feel and is my recommendation for travelers wanting to avoid the touristy parts of Chicago. For families, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, and some of the best summer festivals in Chicago take place in Lincoln Park and adjacent Old Town.
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Chicagos Neighborhoods Not To Miss
The 77 official neighborhoods further slice into sub-neighborhoods like Wrigleyville within Lakeview, Andersonville within Edgewater, Chinatown within Armour Square, and Ukrainian Village within West Town. Its here where the real Chicago thrives.
Many visitors to Chicago tend to visit the more tourist-driven areas like Millennium Park, the Gold Coast, and River North. But to know Chicago is to get into the neighborhoods and explore the citys rich, diverse history.
Here we highlight some of the best Chicago neighborhoods to help you make the most of your visit.
Most Dangerous Parts Of Chicago: How To Stay Safe In A Red Zone
Chicago is well known for its crime no one has tried to argue that Chicago is a safe place to live. In fact, Chicago is one of NeighborhoodScouts’ top 100 most dangerous cities in the United States . However, not every part of Chicago is as dangerous as the numbers may claim. Some parts of Chicago are relatively safe, such as Printers Row.
However, some areas in Chicago are incredibly dangerous. The most dangerous neighborhood in Chicago has a violent crime rate that is 943 percent higher than the national average, making it a severely dangerous neighborhood to live in. That being said, how can a person stay safe while living in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago? And what are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago?
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Where To Stay In Andersonville
The Guesthouse Hotel
Book now: from $199/night, expedia.com
Stay local at the Guesthouse Hotel, a great option with one- to three-bedroom suites with kitchens, living rooms, and balconiesnot to mention a roof deck for summer hangs and a communal fireplace in the winterfor a weekend or extended stay.
Lincoln Park Where To Stay In Chicago On A Budget
Lincoln Park is my recommendation for people who are traveling to Chicago on a budget and for those visiting the city with their family and kids as well!
Some of the unmissable attractions in the area include Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park Conservatory, St. Michaels Church and Chicago History Museum. Other than that, just taking a stroll on the beautiful streets counts as a nice experience as well.
Actually, Id recommend this area to any type of traveler, from young people to families with small children its so versatile and nice! That being said, here are the best hotels in Lincoln Park district:
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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:
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: Avg. $286+ per night | Check rates
Where To Stay In Chicago: Neighborhood Guide Best Hotels And Places To Stay
Wondering where to stay in Chicago? We’ve got you covered. Find here the best neighborhoods and hotels in the Windy City.
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?
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Allow us to share with you Chicagos 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.
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Where To Stay In Chicago The Jewel Of The Midwest Read On To Get A Glimpse Of All The Best Areas To Stay In The Windy City
If youre looking for a place to stay in Chicago, then you have come to the right place. This guide will help you navigate the grid of the windy city, through the many areas that are all unique and definitely worth exploring in a city that is the a perfect merger of history, music, architecture and diversity.
Theres a lot to see and experience in Chicago, so this guide can assist you in making the most of your trip. Learn about tourism in the city, where to stay, what to see, and how to have the best time possible.
Where To Stay In Chicago: Mid
As the name suggests, the Hampton Majestic Chicago Theatre District is located in the heart of Chicago’s performing arts area in the Downtown/Loop neighborhood, conveniently attached to the Private Bank Theater. A five-minute walk takes you to the Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park, and there are many historic buildings and museums nearby. Your stay includes modern amenities and a hot breakfast with a wide selection.
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