Chicago is a city of multitudes — skyscrapers and sparkling waterfronts, bustling city streets and sprawling green spaces, a cosmopolitan downtown and charming neighborhoods. And while those contrasts make Chicago the dynamic city that it is, it can make it difficult to decide where to stay when you come to visit.
Where to stay in Chicago
Luckily, we’ve got your guide right here. We’ve broken down popular places to stay, both in downtown and in the city’s neighborhoods, so you can compare and find the area that’s best for you. And for a limited time, you can take advantage of 20% off on Chicago hotels for stays through spring 2027.
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Things to do |
| Loop |
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| River North |
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| South Loop |
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| Lincoln Park |
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| Wicker Park |
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| Hyde Park |
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Loop: iconic Chicago
Best for: first-time visitors, business travelers, anyone looking for hustle and bustle
The Loop, Chicago’s central heart, gets its name from the elevated train tracks that encircle the area. This is classic downtown Chicago — busy streets, soaring skyscrapers, stunning views, and some of the city’s most famous attractions. The Loop offers a central location, an electric energy, and tons of hotel options across a variety of price points.
Why stay in the Loop?
- Iconic sights: stay close to top Chicago sights, including “The Bean,” Willis Tower, the Chicago Cultural Center, and more.
- Public transit: the Loop is a transit hub with stops for every train line, making it easy to explore different corners of the city
- Top shopping: window shop along State Street, one of the city’s most famous retail corridors, home to the historic Macy’s on State Street
- Waterfront access: bound by the Chicago River and the lakefront, it’s easy to hop on a boat tour, rent a kayak, or stroll the Chicago Riverwalk
- Live theatre: grab tickets to see a show at one of the opulent venues that make up the downtown theatre district
- Close to events: walk to top festivals and events, including the Chicago Jazz Festival, Lollapalooza, Chicago Gourmet, and more
What are things to do in the Loop?
- Millennium Park: the city’s signature downtown green space, home to the world-famous Cloud Gate sculpture
- Chicago Riverwalk: a bustling pedestrian path with up-close skyscraper views, boat tours, and waterfront dining
- Art Institute of Chicago: one of the world’s top art museums, with an Impressionist art collection that rivals the Louvre
- Chicago Cultural Center: the city’s largest hidden gem, filled with free exhibits, events, and the largest Tiffany glass dome
- Skydeck Chicago: see Chicago’s legendary skyline from the tallest observation deck in the country
- Broadway in Chicago: catch the latest hits and pre-Broadway premieres inside stunning historic theatres
What hotels are in the Loop?
There are an abundance of hotel options in Chicago’s Loop neighborhood. Choose from historic hotels with ornate lobbies, modern skyscraper hotels, luxury hotels with in-house spas, hotels with views of Millennium Park or the Chicago River, hotels with rooftop bars, and beyond.
Explore your hotel options in the Loop.
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Lincoln Park: scenic and serene
Best for: families, animal lovers, and foodies looking for the latest hot spots
Lincoln Park is an ultra-charming enclave on the city’s north side, tucked along a pristine stretch of scenic lakefront. The neighborhood’s crown jewel is its namesake park, the city’s largest green space, bordered by the Lakefront Trail and some of the city’s most popular beaches. You’ll feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of downtown — but you might also feel right at home.
Why stay in Lincoln Park?
- Stroll charming streets: admire the stunning residential architecture or shop along Armitage Avenue near Halsted
- Visit the zoo: meet animals from around the world and enjoy the lovely grounds of this free, historic zoo
- Wander the lakefront: the neighborhood is bordered by the lake, where Chicagoans walk the Lakefront Trail, picnic in the grass, and swim at sandy beaches
- Check out local museums: take the kids to a butterfly haven, see artifacts from the Great Chicago Fire, or admire contemporary art exhibits
- Enjoy top dining: feast like a local at Michelin-starred restaurants, trendy new spots, and waterfront bars
What are some things to do in Lincoln Park?
- Lincoln Park Zoo: one of the country’s oldest free zoos, this is a can’t-miss place to visit when you’re in the neighborhood
- Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool: tucked away near the zoo, this zen garden is a local favorite
- Lincoln Park Conservatory: a free indoor botanic garden where flowers thrive all year long
- North Avenue Beach: one of the city’s most popular beaches, with beach volleyball, kayak rentals, and waterfront dining
- Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: a family-friendly museum with hands-on exhibits designed to inspire a love of the natural world
- Chicago History Museum: learn about the fascinating history of our city, from the Great Chicago Fire to the World’s Fair and beyond
- Steppenwolf Theatre: one of the nation’s most influential ensemble companies, staging groundbreaking original productions
- Kingston Mines: a legendary blues club known for its nightly nonstop music on two stages
- iO Theater: catch a show at this famous comedy club, in the city where improv was born
- Wrightwood 659: tucked away on a residential street, this striking exhibition space hosts rotating displays of contemporary art
What hotels are in the Lincoln Park?
- Hotel Versey: a casual boutique-style hotel on the border of Lincoln Park and Lakeview, making it a great jumping-off point to explore both neighborhoods
- Hotel Lincoln: a fun and funky space located right along the park, with a rooftop bar that offers expansive views of both the neighboring green space, the lake, and surrounding city
Hyde Park: a cultural treasure trove
Best for: history buffs, outdoor adventurers, and culture lovers
Hyde Park is one of the most culturally significant neighborhoods in the city — and perhaps the country. The South Side enclave is known for its town-in-a-city feel, diverse population, and historic contributions in arts, music, science, and beyond. The site of the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893, Hyde Park today is an incubator for top chefs, Nobel Prize winners, and even future presidents.
Why stay in Hyde Park?
- An intellectual hub: home to the University of Chicago, with a vibrant student life and picture-perfect campus.
- Endless cultural exploration: immerse yourself in the history of ancient civilization, thought-provoking art, and scientific principles come to life at the neighborhood’s many museums
- Lakefront green space: one of the city’s lakefront jewels, Jackson Park is an expansive and historic green space where culture and nature meet.
- Town-in-a-city feel: explore a tight-knit community filled with beloved local businesses and eateries.
- South Side location: Hyde Park is a great home base for exploring Chicago’s dynamic South Side neighborhoods
What are things to do in Hyde Park?
- Obama Presidential Center: this landmark museum and community space honors the country’s first Black president and his deep ties to Chicago’s South Side
- University of Chicago: the dramatic Gothic campus is home to museums, performance venues, and the daily rhythms of student life
- Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: one of the largest science museums in the world, this hands-on space is filled with interactive activities and immersive exhibits
- Osaka Garden: inside Jackson Park, the Osaka Garden is a peaceful sanctuary and a tiny slice of World’s Fair history
- Smart Museum of Art: this fine arts museum on the U of C campus has been free and open to the public for more than 50 years
- Court Theatre: a Tony-Award-winning theatre that specializes in remixes and retellings of classic tales
- Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House: a UNESCO World Heritage site, this is one of the planet’s finest examples of Prairie-style architecture
What hotels are in Hyde Park?
- Sophy Hyde Park: every element of this boutique hotel is designed to pay homage to the historic neighborhood and its many influential residents
- Hyatt Place Chicago-South/University Medical Center: situated along the bustling 53rd Street corridor, this inviting hotel is convenient for both business and leisure traveler
- The Study at University of Chicago: this on-campus hotel is perfect for families visiting U of C students or anyone looking for a central, scenic location
Wicker Park: hip and historic
Best for: repeat visitors, shoppers, and feeling like a local
Wicker Park gives you a chance to live like a local. Hunt for treasures at vintage shops and used bookstores, stroll the Sunday morning farmers market, and catch local theatre, music, and comedy acts at intimate venues. This area is thoroughly established as a trendsetting enclave, making it a perennial favorite among visitors and locals alike.
Why stay in Wicker Park?
- Walkable shopping: the area around Milwaukee, North, and Damen Avenues is known for its extensive retail options, from local boutiques to top brands
- Buzzy dining: choose from an array of local favorites, from viral bakeries to award-winning fusion cuisine to vegetarian dining
- Connected location: stay near a Blue Line stop to easily explore the surrounding area, get to or from O’Hare, or take a quick ride downtown
- Stay like a local: enjoy a true neighborhood vibe and get to know some of Chicago’s hidden gems
What are things to do in Wicker Park?
- The 606: a former elevated train line that’s been transformed into a thriving pedestrian park and pathway
- The Den: catch podcast tapings, local and visiting comedy acts, local theatre groups, and more
- Chopin Theatre: this quirky venue is known for its eclectic programming, with an emphasis on the experiment and avant-garde
- Subterranean: a legendary local venue with two floors of live music and themed dance nights
- Royal Palms Shuffle Board Club: spend an afternoon enjoying cocktails, food trucks, and indoor shuffleboard (plus one seasonal rooftop court)
- Lincoln Lodge: home to the nation’s longest-running independent comedy showcase
- The Strip Club: a collection of rare vintage photobooths where you can snap the perfect Chicago souvenir
- Historic homes: this area features a ton of cool residential architecture, with unique districts like “Beer Baron Row”
What hotels are in Wicker Park?
- The Robey Chicago: guests can enjoy brunch on the first floor and happy hour on the rooftop terrace, soaring high above the heart of the neighborhood
- Wicker Park Inn: a boutique spot with nine elegant rooms and a central location
- Ray’s Bucktown Bed and Breakfast: this welcoming B&B is family-friendly and dog-friendly, with cooked-to-order breakfasts and free parking
- Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park: take in the spectacular skyline views from the rooftop lounge
South Loop: museums and so much more
Best for: sports fans, art and museum lovers, convention goers
The South Loop is a unique enclave in downtown Chicago. It’s still got that urban buzz from being in the city center, but it’s also a more residential area. That means you’ll see plenty of locals walking to get coffee at their favorite cafe or heading to the lakefront for an afternoon walk. Its prime location makes it a great place to stay for convention and festival goers.
Why stay in South Loop?
- Top museums: stay right next to the Museum Campus, home to three of Chicago’s most popular museums (and great skyline views)
- A bustling vibe: a bit quieter than the Loop and River North, but still packed with jazz and blues clubs, locally loved cafes, and hot new restaurants
- Close to events: walk to major festivals and events at Grant Park, Soldier Field, Northerly Island, and McCormick Place
- Near downtown sights: enjoy easy access to classic Chicago attractions, including SkyDeck Chicago, the Art Institute, the lakefront, and more
- A living canvas: this area is known for its proliferation of public art, with murals covering huge swaths of the neighborhood
What are things to do in South Loop?
- Shedd Aquarium: meet aquatic creatures from the Great Lakes and beyond, plus interactive activities like the sting ray touch.
- Adler Planetarium: explore the depths of space via fascinating exhibits and sky shows at the country’s oldest planetarium.
- Field Museum: this renowned natural history museum is home to the largest T.rex fossil ever discovered.
- Wabash Arts Corridor: a living museum featuring dozens of large-scale murals by global artists.
- Soldier Field: check the schedule for the Chicago Bears, Chicago Fire FC, and top music artists
- Buddy Guy’s Legends: a mecca for blues fans, where the man himself plays a residency every year
- Grant Park: this sprawling lakefront park, home to events like Lollapalooza, is where you’ll find the famous Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest in the world
- Prairie Avenue District: admire historic homes along Chicago’s original “Millionaire’s Row,” now home to the Glessner House museum.
What hotels are in South Loop?
Choose from a variety of South Loop hotels, located inside everything from historic buildings to soaring lakefront skyscrapers. There are plenty of hotel options within walking distance of Grant Park, the Museum Campus, McCormick Place, and more South Loop attractions.
Explore hotel options in the South Loop.
River North: nightlife and new restaurants
Best for: anyone who wants nightlife, urban energy, and is on top of their reservation game
Chicago’s River North enclave is overflowing with dining and nightlife — grab cocktails at an underground speakeasy or a hidden tiki bar, get on the waitlist for one of the city’s hottest new restaurants, catch a show at an intimate blues club, splurge at a classic Chicago steakhouse, or take in the view from a rooftop bar.
Why stay in River North?
- Diverse dining: dine at the hot new restaurants, classic Chicago establishments, and everything in between
- Late nights: this area never sleeps, thanks to the abundance of cocktail lounges, clubs, hidden dive bars, and music venues
- Riverfront access: it’s easy to hop on architecture boat tours, dinner cruises, kayak rentals, and more
- Architectural gems: get up-close views of some of the city’s most iconic buildings, like the Marina Towers and the Wrigley Building
- Top shopping: stay near iconic Michigan Avenue, home to flagship stores, multi-story malls, and unique retail experiences
- Waterfront dining: the north edge of the river is lined with alfresco restaurants, offering views of the water and glittering skyline
What are things to do in River North?
- House of Blues: a must for music lovers, this long-time venue draws top acts across genres
- Driehaus Museum: the city’s “Marble Palace” features ornate interiors and rotating exhibits
- Art on the MART: cross the river to watch this nightly art experience, lighting up one of the city’s largest buildings
- The Magnificent Mile: take a stroll through one of the world’s most famous shopping districts
- 360 CHICAGO: a few blocks north, this observation deck offers panoramic views, a cocktail bar, and the famous TILT experience
- Art galleries: pop into contemporary galleries and showrooms to see works from emerging and established artists
What hotels are in River North?
River North is home to a dynamic array of places to stay, including a slate of award-winning hotels. Check out fun and funky hostels, luxurious five-star accommodations, and everything in between. And look for perks like in-house spas, rooftop lounges, riverfront views, acclaimed dining, and more.
Explore more hotel options in River North.
More Chicago areas to stay
- Pilsen: a colorful, artsy area known for its Hispanic culture, bars and restaurants, and abundance of galleries and murals
- West Loop: a food lover’s mecca, this former industrial area is now one of the country’s hottest restaurant scenes
- Lakeview: this lively neighborhood is home to historic Wrigley Field, a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and miles of scenic lakefront
- Andersonville: known for its local-first ethos, this charming neighborhood is a great place to eat and shop
- Gold Coast: an upscale lakefront area with opulent mansions, designer shopping, and historic charm
- Uptown: a hub for music and entertainment, this diverse area is known for its historic music venues and cultural corridor known as “Asia on Argyle”
- Bronzeville: the city’s “Black metropolis,” Bronzeville is a living monument to African American history and culture
- Old Town: Old Town pulses with energy, thanks to a thriving nightlife corridor, a mix of new and long-standing restaurants, and iconic comedy clubs
- Streeterville: this slice of downtown offers proximity to the lakefront, Navy Pier, boat tours, and the tucked-away Ohio Street Beach
Explore more Chicago neighborhoods and find your perfect place to stay.
