18 BEST HOTELS in Chicago [December 2024!]

One of the largest cities in the USA, Chicago is big and bold.

This place, set on the shores of Lake Michigan, is famous for it impressive selection of sparkling skyscrapers as much as its big museums.

With every big city, there comes an issue with crime and that’s the case with Chicago too. With that in mind, you’re definitely going to want to stay in a secure, trusted hotel in a safe area.

Because of that, we have decided to create a bumper guide to the best hotels in Chicago. We’re not just talking safe and secure, but genuinely great hotels that will make (not break) your stay.

We’ve got you covered with everything from cheap, budget-friendly hotels to boutique, luxury hotels on offer to make sure you find the right place for you.

All you’ve got to do now is choose!

Quick Answers – Best Hotels in Chicago 

 

#1 – Hotel Versey Days Inn

Best Overall Hotel in Chicago

• $$
• Cool design
• Fitness centre
• Parking

The Hotel Versey Days Inn definitely has it covered when it comes to style. It’s decorated with touches of Chicago’s music and art history throughout. There’s an LA Fitness facility onsite for guests to use, plus a 24-hour front desk and daily housekeeping. It’s a good all-rounder and the best overall hotel in Chicago.

When it comes to the rooms, there are a wide selection to choose from, so you’ll be able to find something for you here. Nearby is the historic Briar Street Theater as well as the Magnificent Mile.

 

#2 –Hampton Inn Chicago

Best Hotel in Chicago Near O'Hare International Airport

• $$
• Babysitting services
• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre

This place honestly is just a couple of minutes by car from the airport, which is good news if you are arriving or leaving by a late or early flight. The Hampton Inn Chicago isn’t a basic airport hotel though. It’s very clean and well maintained, plus there’s a complimentary breakfast each morning.

To make things even more stress-free during your stay at the best hotel in Chicago near O’Hare International Airport, there’s even a shuttle service. Very, very convenient!

 

#3 – Hyatt Place Chicago

Best Hotel in Chicago Near Chicago Midway International Airport

• $$$
• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre
• Miniature golf

This branch of the Hyatt is a clean and comfortable hotel and the best hotel in Chicago near Chicago Midway International Airport. The rooms are spacious, well equipped and boast soft beds for a great night’s sleep. You won’t have to worry about noise from planes as it’s a quiet location.

The staff here are really accommodating and helpful with a friendly attitude. The onsite swimming pool is a good place to unwind after a long flight, or maybe you’d like to try some mini golf!

 

MUST READ – If you are heading to Chicago next you need to read our post about the things to do in Chicago!

#4 – Wyndham Grand Chicago Riverfront 

Best Hotel in Chicago Near Downtown

• $$$$
• Restaurant
• Room service
• Spa and wellness centre

The Wyndham Grand Chicago Riverfront has got to be the best hotel in Chicago near Downtown. Not only is the location great, but it’s a stylish place to stay. It’s got cool, contemporary interiors, muted lighting, neutral colour palettes for a calm, comfortable stay in the city. Some rooms even boast river views from up high.

The hotel features its very own restaurant where you can unwind with a meal before heading up to the rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy taking in the famous city skyline at night.

 

How much do you know about Chicago? You can learn about Chicago’s history before you go!

 

#5 – Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago

Best Hotel in Chicago For Families

• $$$
• Babysitting service
• Bicycle rental
• Laundry services

The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago easily snaps up the title of best hotel in Chicago for families. It is set right in the middle of the city, making it easy to travel around. You’ll be able to walk to nearby sights like the Millennium Park in mere minutes.

This is a stylish place to stay, but it’s also comfortable and the staff will help to make you feel at home. The selection of rooms is handy and so is the onsite restaurant which can cater for little ones.

 

Did you know? Some months are better to visit Chicago than others. Rad our EPIC guide for when to visit Chicago! 

#6 – Virgin Hotels Chicago

Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in Chicago

• $$$$
• Rooftop terrace
• Tour desk
• Sauna

For the best pet-friendly hotel in Chicago, look no further than Virgin Hotels Chicago. If you’re in town with a fluffy companion, staying here means a modern slice of Chicago luxury. The rooms which are pet-friendly even come with amenities for your pet, so they get a comfortable stay, too!

Your dog can get a bed, food and water – even treats! You even get a branded bandana for your dog. Other than that, you can enjoy shops and restaurants within walking distance.

 

Do you have some time? There are tons of amazing places to visit in Illinois!

#7 – Inns of Chicago

Best Cheap Hotel in Chicago

• $$
• Express check-in
• Fitness centre
• Luggage storage

Inns of Chicago may well be the best cheap hotel in Chicago, but staying here doesn’t mean you’ll be treated like you’re staying at a cheap hotel. The staff are very helpful, polite and courteous. The rooms may be small, but they are clean and secure.

From here the Magnificent Mile is just a few blocks away, plus there is also plenty to do in the local area. This hotel is perfect if you are looking for an affordable hotel in Downtown Chicago.

 

Want to go deeper? These great museums in Chicago are perfect for learning a little more.

#8 – Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile

Best Hotel in Chicago Near Magnificent Mile

• $$$$
• Laundry service
• Beauty centre
• Concierge

It just so happens that this branch of Sofitel is also the best hotel in Chicago near Magnificent Mile. Staying at this hotel may come at a cost, but for the experience of staying somewhere luxe it’s worth it. Expect automatic curtains in the room, slippers and robes, as well as incredible city views from up high.

The decor here is also funky, tastefully designed and really makes you feel like you’re staying somewhere cool. Plus there is an in-house restaurant and lounge bar so you don’t even have to leave the hotel for great food and drink.

 

#9 – Hotel Lincoln a Joie de Vivre Hotel

Best Hotel in Chicago Near Lincoln Park

• $$$
• Incredibly cool
• Rooftop terrace
• Room service

Hotel Lincoln a Joie de Vivre Hotel is not only the best hotel in Chicago near Lincoln Park, but it’s also one of the coolest hotels in Chicago, too. Think boutique style with quirky design features, ideal for your Instagram feed. It is set inside a historic building where you can enjoy views of the city from the rooftop or dining in the restaurant.

Nearby you will find Lincoln Park, which is just a ten-minute walk away, and so is the very comprehensive Chicago History Museum. With its style, service and comfy rooms, it’s a truly special place to stay in the city.

 

#10 – Central Loop Hotel

Best Hotel in Chicago Near The Loop

• $$$
• Valet parking
• Amazing location
• Fitness centre

The Central Loop Hotel is right in the middle of the city, surrounded by bars and restaurants in the area. It’s also the best hotel in Chicago near The Loop. The rooms here are compact but comfortable and decorated with simple style, including big headboards and white-washed walls.

There is a restaurant and bar onsite serving up American classics and even British food. Plus the fitness centre here means you can keep up with your workouts.

 

#11 – Majestic Hotel Chicago

Best Hotel in Chicago Near Lake View

• $$$
• Gym
• 24-hour front desk
• Laundry service

A homely feeling place to stay, the Majestic Hotel is also the best hotel in Chicago near Lake View. It’s a small hotel with personal, traditional touches throughout. The service is friendly and, for what you get, it’s a good value-for-money hotel. It is also set inside an old apartment building that’s over 100 years old!

Something of a hidden gem, with period features throughout and lots of character, this hotel is practically next door to the park and set on a picturesque tree-lined boulevard.

 

More Best Hotels in Chicago 

#12 – The Palmer House Hilton

• $$$$
• Opulent design
• Close to public transport
• Golf course

The Palmer House Hilton is probably the best luxury hotel in Chicago. This truly is a big, historic hotel with classic high-end interiors and even an onsite golf course. There is a lot of charm to staying in this top Chicago hotel. Fans of architecture will love its grand entranceway and stylish bar.

There’s an onsite swimming pool to enjoy, as well as Jacuzzis, and a wide selection of restaurants. The staff here run the show professionally, too.

 

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#13 – Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel

• $$$
• Fitness centre
• Ballroom
• Luggage storage

The Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel is one of the best hotels in Chicago. It is located just steps away from the Magnificent Mile and the Museum of Contemporary Art. It mixes modern interiors with elegant traditional touches for a high-end Chicago hotel. It’s even got a ballroom!

There is a great ambience at this hotel. The staff are also friendly and attentive. There is also a valet parking service, adding to the sense of luxury.

 

#14 – Club Quarters Hotel Wacker at Michigan

• $$
• Luggage storage
• 24-hour front desk
• Concierge

Club Quarters Hotel Wacker at Michigan has compact rooms which are great for business trips, but at the same time they come with contemporary decor and are neat, clean, calm spaces to relax in. They even boast great city views. There may not be an onsite restaurant, but there are plenty of places nearby for snacks and meals.

For the location, this is one of the best budget hotels in Chicago, offering up a good value-for-money place to stay in this cool city.

 

#15 – Chicago Athletic Association

• $$$
• Cool historic building
• Interesting interiors
• Billiards

When it comes to buildings, architecture and interior design, the Chicago Athletic Association has got to be one of the coolest hotels in Chicago. It is all about the aesthetics here. Each room is a little different, but all of them are decorated high-end, classy, boutique way.

There is a rooftop atrium for a stylish place to grab dinner and drinks. On the whole, there is a cool atmosphere at this top Chicago hotel. It’s definitely a place to stay if you love design.

 

If you are traveling to Chicago, You gotta check out our article on Chicago’s coolest neighborhoods!

#16 – The Blackstone Autograph Collection

• $$$$
• Amazing location
• Cool design
• Gift shop

With a fantastic location right next to Grand Park as well as Chicago Natural History Museum, there are many things to see and do right on the doorstep of this cool Chicago hotel. Not only that, but there is also a metro station just steps away. After a busy day of sightseeing, returning back to this opulent hotel is always a great thing.

There is a restaurant on site for a bite to eat. Rooms at this top hotel in Chicago are spacious and come with comfortable beds as well as amazing views of the city.

 

#17 – Loews Hotel Chicago

• $$$
• Swimming pool
• Room service
• Great city views

Loews Hotel Chicago boasts rooms that are sleek and modern, which also come with large windows so you can soak up the famous skyline of Chicago from the comfort of your bed. There is an inviting and cosy atmosphere in this hotel which makes for a relaxing stay.

There is a babysitting service at this hotel, so if you’re staying with children this is a good option. It means you can go to the rooftop terrace for a few late night drinks and enjoy more of those amazing city views.

 

#18 – Ivy Boutique Hotel

• $$$
• Tour desk
• Laundry service
• Restaurant

Ivy Boutique Hotel is a top Chicago hotel. It features comfortable, well-appointed rooms that have a boutique style and elegant, feminine touches. There is an onsite sun terrace with views of the city. There is also a bar and an onsite restaurant for dinner and drinks.

However the local area is packed with different places to eat and drink, so you will want to head out to explore. Michigan Avenue and a subway station are both within walking distance, making the location very convenient.

 

Bonus Hotel!

Holiday Jones

• $
• Luggage storage
• Cool interiors
• Great location

One of the best budget hotels in Chicago, Holiday Jones features urban design and feels more pricey than it is. Perfect for budget travellers with an eye for style and design, there is a choice of everything from bunk beds to family rooms. The bathrooms are shared.

It is a clean and cool place to stay in the city. This top hotel in Chicago also boasts a restaurant and coffee lounge. Nearby there is a lot of nightlife on offer, plus museums and even a subway station.

 

To conclude…

So that’s that. The end of our epic guide to the best hotels in Chicago. There sure is a lot to choose from when it comes to the coolest hotels in Chicago, we made sure of that!

If you still can’t decide which place is right for you, let us help you. We would personally go for Hotel Versey Days Inn, the best overall hotel in Chicago. It’s a mix of everything that makes it right for just about anybody – with any budget!

Tell us which of these top Chicago hotels you stayed at in the comments! Was it great? Let us know!

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