Chicago is America’s third 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.
In this travel guide:
Wicker Park
Wicker Park is to Chicago what Brooklyn is to New York City. It is Chicago’s hipster hotspot and tourists visit the area for its eclectic mix of shopping, music, and dining.
A lot of Chicago locals will swear they stay away from Wicker Park due to it being a destination for travelers. However, many locals still head to Wicker Park to explore the cool music venues and boutiques found there.
The neighborhood is easy to reach from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. You can fly into the city and reach Wicker Park quickly. It is a hub of Chicago culture thanks to its pubs and the young people that descend on the area making it energetic and vibrant.
If you need a break from Wicker Park’s bars and restaurant, try out the 606. Also known as the Bloomingdale Trail, the 606 is an urban walkway that stretches across the surrounding neighborhoods. The trail allows you to enter and exit at multiple points to visit the local shops, bars, parks, and hotels.
Best place to stay in Wicker Park
Hotel The Robey. Address: 2018 W North Avenue, Wicker Park, Chicago, IL 60647, United States of America.
The Loop
The Loop is an incredibly popular area to stay in when visiting Chicago. it is one of the city’s three downtown communities and is often favored by newcomers to the Windy City. The neighborhood is bordered on three sides by water. To the north and west is the Chicago River, while to the east lies Lake Michigan.
Chicago’s skyline is at its most impressive here. The city’s most iconic buildings are located in the neighborhood making it a great place to sightsee. If art and culture are your thing, then there is plenty of it in The Loop.
The Art Institute of Chicago is situated in the area and is perfect for a day of exploring. The museum is considered one of the best in the United States for fine and contemporary art.
Locals and tourists flock to Grant Park in The Loop to walk along its beautiful leafy paths. Buckingham Fountain is located in the park and is a popular place to sit and reflect on your day.
If you are preparing for your first trip to Chicago, then The Loop is the ideal place to stay. Foodies will love the authentic Chicago-style food served up at local establishments.
Best place to stay in The Loop
Athletic Association Hotel. Address: 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is a mix of individuals from university students to young families to professionals. Its mix of people allows you to rub shoulders with true Chicagoans and taste a true slice of life in the Windy City.
One of the reasons people move to Lincoln Park or base their stay at a hotel in the neighborhood is due to the amount of green space. Lincoln Park has 1,200 acres of natural space to discover.
The neighborhood has a wide range of accommodations, from upscale hotels to budget-friendly chains. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the area is Lincoln Park Zoo.
The area is near Lake Michigan and walks can be made along the shoreline. The botanical gardens located near Lake Michigan are a must-visit. The Lincoln Park Conservatory is also near the lake and perfect to explore.
Chicago History Museum is situated in Lincoln Park. You can take a dive into local and regional cultures on a visit. When the sun is out and temperatures are warm, North Avenue beach attracts people to its sands.
Best place to stay in Lincoln Park
Hotel Lincoln. Address: 1816 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.
River North
If a night out is high on your list of activities to enjoy in Chicago, then River North is the place to stay in the city. River North isn’t just known for its brilliant nights out, however. The area is home to museums, art galleries, and unique places that make Chicago one of the best cities to visit in all of America.
You will find a healthy dose of bars, restaurants, pubs, and cafes scattered throughout River North. It is a popular destination for music lovers due to its venues and you can always find a band playing on the weekend. Chicago’s House of Blues is just one of the music venues in the area.
Foodies will fall in love with River North. It has a range of top restaurants with many serving up popular Chicago staples. Fancy true Chicago deep-dish pizza? Then don’t miss out on dining at one of the restaurants in the neighborhood.
Best place to stay in River North
Acme Hotel Company. Address: 15 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Wrigleyville
Located on Chicago’s northside, Wrigleyville is hipster without being hipster. It has one of the best atmospheres of any neighborhood in Chicago. While Wicker Park and The Loop offer a more touristy version of Chicago, Wrigleyville is authentic, from the people who live there to the bars.
Wrigleyville is synonymous with Major League Baseball club, the Chicago Cubs. The area is named after the Cubs iconic stadium, Wrigley Field, which has been in the Northside neighborhood since 1914.
On a game day, hanging out at the sports bars around the stadium is one of the most fun activities you can do. If you happen to get a ticket to a baseball game, you can enjoy the famous Cubs and sample Wrigley Field’s great food offerings.
One of the most unique Chicago experiences is to watch a Cubs game from a rooftop apartment that overlooks the stadium. Even if it is difficult to see the game from the rooftop, the atmosphere provided is like no other sports experience.
Wrigleyville’s Gallager Way provides free family events throughout the year. You will also find a host of hotels to lay your head when the sun goes down and the party stops.
Best place to stay in Wrigleyville
The Wheelhouse Hotel. Address: 3475 N. Clark St., Lakeview, Chicago, IL 60657, United States of America.
Where travel critics stay in Chicago
Want to know where travel critics from publishers like The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet stay in Chicago? Check out our overview of all recommended hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Chicago.
Budget
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown.
“This unique property makes you feel like a road-tripper of yore. The dark-wood-paneled rooms strike the right balance of retro vibe and modern amenities. The central location puts you near the river, Magnificent Mile shops and Millennium Park.” — Lonely Planet.
Address: 33 West, Illinois, Chicago, IL 60654, USA.
Mid-range
“The 247-room Thompson Chicago has a Gold Coast address with the casual opulence and views — of both city and lake — to match. A stylish, splurge-worthy hotel with an excellent location, thoughtful perks and destination-style dining without having to leave your room.” — New York Times.
Address: 21 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Luxury
“Open since 2013, a Mies van der Rohe-designed skyscraper is now home to the city’s hottest stay. The Langham Chicago stands out for its winning mix of impeccable service, sleek style, and outstanding location.” — Fodor’s.
Address: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
FAQ: Chicago hotel recommendations
If you’re looking for a budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Chicago, or maybe your travel plans require a splendid hostel? Want to know which hotel serves the best breakfast? Here are all those answers and more about where to stay in Chicago.
How much does it cost to stay in a Chicago hotel?
Hotels in Chicago aren’t cheap. For a 3-star hotel, you have to pay around $170 per night and for a 4-star Chicago hotel, you would be looking at $225 per night. If you’re after a luxury 5-star hotel then you can expect to pay around $400 per night.
What is the best luxury hotel in Chicago?
If money isn’t a problem and you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Chicago, then go for Langham Hotel. The hotel offers excellent service, it’s in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Make sure you check our shortlist of the best luxury hotels in Chicago, it’s a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
What is the best boutique hotel in Chicago?
You like some luxury but don’t like the famous chain hotels. If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Chicago, you should check out Viceroy Chicago. It’s a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts. Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Chicago, it’s a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
What is the best budget hotel in Chicago?
If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Chicago, then try Acme Hotel Company. It’s an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It’s in a good location, it’s been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Make sure you check our shortlist of the best cheap hotels in Chicago.
What is the best hostel in Chicago?
If you’re looking for a great hostel in Chicago, then you should check out Hostel Holiday Jones. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it’s in a good location. Also check out our list of best hostels in Chicago.
Which Chicago hotels offer the best rooftop bar?
Looking for a drink with a view in Chicago? Try The Godfrey Hotel, Hotel Lincoln or the Virgin Hotel. All those hotels have excellent customer reviews for the rooftop bars.
Which Chicago hotel serves a great breakfast?
The Langham Hotel is probably your best bet if you’re looking to start the day with a great breakfast. Customers have rated the breakfast buffet there as excellent.
Which Chicago hotels are good for a romantic getaway?
If you’re looking for a great Chicago hotel for couples then try The Thompson Hotel or The Langham Hotel. Both hotels have excellent customer review ratings by couples.
Best time to visit Chicago
The best time to visit Chicago is between March and May and also September and October.
This is the perfect time to visit the city as the temperatures are mild and comfortable. The days are long and the sunsets are beautiful. The city’s parks and gardens are in full bloom and the city’s iconic architecture becomes even more stunning.
During this time, you can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, and paddle-boarding.
The summer months of June, July and August are also popular times to visit Chicago. During this time, the city is alive with festivals and events. There’s something for everyone, from music festivals to food festivals. Plus, the beaches along Lake Michigan come alive with people enjoying the sun and sand.
The winter months of December, January and February are also popular times to visit Chicago. Although the temperatures during this time of year can be freezing, the city is still full of life.
Ice skating rinks and outdoor ice sculptures are popular attractions. Plus, the holiday season is a great time to explore the city’s Christmas markets, and stunning light displays, and enjoy the many festive events.
Best things to do in Chicago
There are numerous things to do in Chicago and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in and around Chicago:
Chicago River Architecture Cruise: Skip-the-Ticket-Office
Cruise along the Chicago River on a 75-minute tour, and discover hidden architectural gems among the city’s renowned landmarks. Led by a docent providing live narration, the tour passes more than 40 structures and sails under historic bridges. Price: $36. More info.
Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago
With a historian as your guide, you’ll step back to the roaring 20s, when the Chicago Loop was a hub for bootleggers, speakeasies, and gangsters like the infamous Al Capone. Price: $27. More info.
Bikes, Bites, and Brews: Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour
Chicago dogs, deep-dish pizza, cupcakes and craft beer are all sampled on this half-day bike tour through the Windy City. Cover about 13 miles (21 km), following an informative guide at a moderate pace. Price $80. More info.
Deciding where to stay in Chicago
In conclusion, this travel guide has covered the best areas and hotels in Chicago and how to get around. Now it is up to you to decide which area suits your needs the most.
Top 5 areas to stay in Chicago
- River North
- Wrigleyville
- Lincoln Park
- The Loop
- Wicker Park
As you have seen in this travel guide, there are a lot of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Chicago is important. Whether you stay in River North, Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park, The Loop or Wicker Park, all those neighborhoods are in good locations.
The atmosphere of the area, whether you travel for leisure or business, whether you travel with your family or friends, and proximity to the attractions you prefer to visit should probably be the deciding factors. Whatever your preference is, you’ll have a great time in Chicago, Illinois.
Chicago overview
| 🏨 Hotel prices: | High |
| 🛏 Budget hotel: | $150 |
| 💑 Boutique hotel: | $200 |
| ⭐ 5-star hotel: | $350 |
| 🌎 Best area for first visit: | The Loop |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Lincoln Park |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | The Langham Hotel |
| 👫 Best boutique hotel: | Viceroy Chicago |
| 💰 Best cheap hotel: | Acme Hotel Company |
| 🎒 Best hostel: | Hostel Holiday Jones |
More Chicago tips
Take a look at our other guides about the best places to stay in Chicago:
