How to find the best hotel deal in Chicago
You've got your ideal flight locked in. Now let that same smart search engine find you deals on Chicago hotels. These tips will get you one step closer to zipping up your suitcase.
The earlier you book, the better off you are. You're more likely to score a cheaper rate on a Chicago hotel and have more choice when you plan in advance.
That said, booking at the last minute can work out well. Some places drop their rates a day or two ahead of check-in to keep rooms from sitting empty.
Another trick to scoring cheaper hotels? Stay flexible. If your itinerary isn't written in stone, try a few different travel dates and discover just how much you can save.
Browse around for stays with free cancellation. Lock in a good rate today and easily cancel later if your itinerary changes.
Where to stay in Chicago
Central Chicago
To make the most of central Chicago, you'll want to be near the attractions that brought you here in the first place. Here are a few standout stays close to the highlights.
If you're searching for hotels near Millennium Park, make your base at The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago. This 4-star Chicago hotel is about 2 kilometres from this sight and is a go-to for families.
Browsing around for hotels near The Art Institute of Chicago? About 2 kilometres away, The Langham Chicago keeps you close enough to pop over on a whim. With a 5-star rating, this hotel in Chicago is especially appealing to couples.
Hotels near Willis Tower are other options to keep in mind. Four Seasons Chicago is 3 kilometres or so from this top sight and has earned a reputation among business travellers. It has a 5-star rating and is a great base for discovering the city at large.
Lake View
Need more ideas on where to stay? Lake View has a range of comfortable hotels within easy reach of the top sights.
Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel is one of the most popular hotels near The Legacy Walk, a major attraction in this area. This hotel in Chicago has a 3-star rating and gets strong guest feedback for its location.
The Willows Hotel, one of the hotels near Athenaeum Centre for Thought & Culture, could be where your next stay begins. Along with being a good starting point for exploring this highlight, this 3-star Chicago hotel stands out in reviews for its location.
Hotels near The Park at Wrigley also make a great choice for any visit. Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel is a go-to if you're eager to discover this and other attractions around Lake View. It's rated 4 stars and receives solid feedback for its cleanliness.
More great stays await. Check out the full lineup of hotels in Lake View and find your next home away from home.
When to go to Chicago
The tourist season peaks in July. If you like to keep your trip action-packed, this is a fantastic time to book a hotel in Chicago.
Experience a slower pace by locking in a Chicago hotel in March. This is the quietest time to visit and is usually cheaper too.
Consider your ideal weather conditions when deciding your travel dates. With maximum highs of 28ºC (82ºF), July offers the warmest conditions.
The weather is at its coolest in January. You can expect lows of -12ºC (10ºF).
For the best chance of sunshine, search for Chicago hotels in September. With an average of six days of rain, this is the driest month.
The wettest time of year is May. Plan your trip then and you can expect to get around ten days of rainfall.
Best hotels in Chicago
Best budget hotels
Why pay more than you have to? Budget Chicago hotels come with the basics so you can save your cash for the real highlights: having adventures and cramming your suitcase with souvenirs. Often equipped with money-saving amenities like in-room kettles and microwaves, you'll find at least 80 of these well-priced stays across the city.
Fairfield Inn and Suites Chicago Downtown-River North promises comfort without breaking the bank. Make use of luggage storage, heating and more at this 3-star option in Near North Side.
With practical perks like parking and hair dryers, The Buckingham Hotel packs in everything you need, and nothing you don't. This Chicago hotel is in Loop and carries a 3-star rating.
Another easy win for your wallet is City Suites Hotel. This 3-star stay in Lake View features a 24-hour front desk and a laundry.
Best 4-star hotels in Chicago
Indulge a little without going all out at one of the 4-star hotels in Chicago. Pick from around 80 of these stays, many of which come with perks like rooftop bars, fitness centres, and in-house restaurants. From the rooms to the amenities and service, it's all about extra attention to detail.
Located in Near North Side, Gale Chicago delivers the kind of stay that makes every detail feel taken care of. Concierge assistance and a restaurant are included in the 4-star guest experience.
Hotel EMC2, Autograph Collection is another standout option. You'll find amenities like a restaurant and concierge assistance at this Chicago hotel in Near North Side.
Searching for something else? The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago in Near North Side proves you don't need five stars to feel spoiled. Take advantage of concierge assistance, valet parking and more at this stay.
Best luxury 5-star hotels
You could just find a place to crash. Or you could book one of the ten or so 5-star hotels in Chicago and feel every bit like a VIP. Think indulgent wellness offerings, impeccable dining experiences, and unbeatable locations. (And perhaps even a personal concierge at your service.) Most of these luxurious stays are in Near North Side.
Nobu Hotel Chicago doesn't just meet expectations — it beats them. There's a long list of things to love about this Near West Side accommodation option, including concierge assistance and massage services.
Alternatively, enjoy the stay you deserve at Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile. This 5-star Chicago hotel is located in Near North Side and features a fireplace, massage services and more.
Best hotels in Chicago for families
Family travel can be hectic, but your hotel should be the least stressful part. You'll find at least 60 family-friendly hotels in Chicago that work hard to keep both kids and adults happy. These stays often come with handy features like rollaway beds, adjoining rooms, play areas, and games rooms.
You don't need a big budget to have a great time at Rodeway Inn Chicago North Shore - Lincolnwood. A restaurant and Wi-Fi in designated areas are a few of the amenities you'll find at this affordable 2-star option.
The Langham Chicago takes the standard family trip up a notch. This 5-star stay in Near North Side offers a pool and a ticket office.
Another one for your list is The Whitehall Hotel - BW Premier Collection. It often earns positive mentions for its location and comes with express check-out and a fitness centre. You'll find this 3-star accommodation option in Near North Side.
Best hotels with a spa
Discover your zen at one of the 50 or so Chicago hotels with a spa. Located mostly in Near North Side, they feature anything from soaking tubs to gyms and thermal pools. Toss in meditation classes, massages, and manicures and you have the recipe for relaxation.
Ready to switch off for a while? Come rest at LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton. This 4-star accommodation option in Loop has a spa and room service.
Located in Loop, theWit Chicago, a Hilton Hotel is another favourite that has what you need to unwind. Make the most of a spa and room service at this 4-star hotel in Chicago.
ACME Hotel Chicago, Outset Collection by Hilton lets you balance sightseeing with a little spa bliss. You'll find a fitness centre and concierge assistance at this 3-star option in Near North Side.
Best hotels with a pool
Add an extra splash of fun to your trip with a pool. If you go for a city hotel, expect indoor or rooftop options. Resorts? They usually step things up with expansive outdoor layouts and maybe even a swim-up bar. There are at least 50 pool hotels in Chicago made for your next adventure.
Located in West Town, The Robey, Chicago, a Member of Design Hotels comes with an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and tour services. You'll have the right mix of features for a memorable stay at this 3-star Chicago hotel.
A swimsuit and good vibes are all you need at Nobu Hotel Chicago. Featuring an indoor swimming pool, internet access and a 24-hour front desk, this Near West Side stay is rated 5 stars.
Or add a little play to your getaway at Sentral Michigan Avenue. You'll have access to an indoor swimming pool, a lounge and parking at this 3-star hotel in Loop.
Best pet-friendly hotels
Escaping with your furry friend? Pet-friendly hotels often come with cosy pet beds, bowls, and designated outdoor areas. Some even go the extra mile with things like dog-walking and grooming services. With at least 140 Chicago hotels that welcome pets, your little pal can be part of the journey.
Hotel EMC2, Autograph Collection is a 4-star option in Near North Side. A cash machine and air conditioning are some conveniences available at this pet-friendly hotel in Chicago.
There's also room for you and your little buddy at The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago. Rated 4 stars, it's located in Near North Side and includes a fireplace, express check-out and more.
Rated 4 stars, Sophy Hyde Park ensures comfort for all guests, big and small. It's in Hyde Park and features air conditioning and car rental options.
Flying to Chicago
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
A flight to Chicago usually means touching down at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), the main airport. From there, the centre is around 26 kilometres away.
The drive to the centre of Chicago takes about 30 minutes, while public transport is roughly 45 minutes.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Chicago O'Hare Airport by IHG is the perfect place to stay if you have a late flight in. Within easy reach of the airport, guests speak highly of this 3-star option's cleanliness.
Also close to ORD, Avid Hotel Chicago O’Hare – des Plaines continues to win over guests. This 2-star stay has a solid overall rating of 4-plus out of 5 based on traveller feedback.
Need another reliable pick? Hampton Inn & Suites Rosemont Chicago O'Hare could be the one for you. It has a 2-star rating and is particularly popular with families.
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)
You can also travel to Chicago through Chicago Midway Airport (MDW), which is about 14 kilometres from the centre.
Travelling by public transport into the city will take roughly 30 minutes. The journey by car is usually 25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Searching for a Chicago hotel not far from MDW? Carlton Inn Midway is just the thing if you have a late flight or a stopover. Amenities like a fireplace and a laundry add to the convenience of this 2-star stay.
Or book a room at Chicago Marriott Midway. A top pick among families in particular, this 3-star option will get things off to a comfortable start.
DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago Midway Airport, IL also offers easy access to MDW, and holds high overall ratings above 4 out of 5. Call it a day and enjoy uninterrupted rest at this 4-star stay.
Chicago Rockford Airport (RFD)
Around 129 kilometres from the centre of Chicago, Chicago Rockford Airport (RFD) offers an alternative route into the city.
It takes around 1 hour 40 minutes to reach central Chicago by car and 2 hours or so on public transport.
If you're not ready to head into the city just yet, find a Chicago hotel near RFD. Studio 6 Rockford, IL – RFD Airport is a top pick that comes with air conditioning and more.
Another go-to is Super 8 by Wyndham Rockford South. It sets the standard for a solid airport hotel.
Step off the plane and feel instantly grounded at Motel 6 Rockford, IL – RFD Airport. It comes with a 2-star rating and amenities such as a 24-hour front desk and internet access.
