Chicago is one of my all-time favourite cities. I absolutely love it. It has everything you could want from a major city, but it feels much less chaotic and stressful than places like New York and London.
Like most big cities, Chicago consists of different areas known as neighbourhoods. In total, there are 178 neighbourhoods in the city, and narrowing down where to stay can sometimes be a headache. This is especially true if it’s your first time visiting the Windy City.
In this post, I’ve shared a quick summary of where to stay in Chicago, including River North, the Magnificent Mile and The Loop. I’ve also shared several of my favourite neighbourhoods in Chicago.
Thankfully, the tourist spots in Chicago cover quite a small area (at least relative to the size of the city). Providing you stick to one of the Downtown areas mentioned below, it’s hard to go wrong.
Safe places to stay in Chicago
Chicago has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous cities in America. However, much of this crime occurs between gangs in specific city areas.
While crimes can occur anywhere, most of the popular areas are as safe as any other big city.
I’ve travelled to Chicago several times now, and I’ve never had any issues. In fact, I’ve often felt safer than in other cities.
The neighbourhoods I’ve outlined below are popular with tourists and locals, and generally considered safe areas to stay. That’s not to say crimes don’t happen, but you’d have to be unlucky.
Best places to stay in Chicago for first-timers
Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is one of Chicago’s most iconic destinations and a fantastic place to stay if you want to be in the heart of the action. Stretching along Michigan Avenue, the district is home to world-class shopping, famous restaurants and stunning architecture.
You’ll also find the iconic John Hancock Center and historic Water Tower, two of Chicago’s most famous landmarks.
The Magnificent Mile really is an excellent place to stay. Many restaurants and shops are nearby, and most attractions are within walking distance. You’ll also be a short walk from stunning Lake Michigan.
One thing to note is you’ll be in one of the busiest areas of the city. The area can be crowded with tourists, and it doesn’t exactly offer that local feeling.
However, if you want somewhere close to the action, the Magnificent Mile is an excellent choice.
Budget accommodation
Warwick Allerton | This simple hotel is perfect for those travelling on a budget who still want to be at the heart of the action. The rooms are nothing fancy, but you won’t be spending much time inside anyway.
Omni | This hotel is in a convenient location right on Michigan Avenue offers rooms with separate living areas, giving you much-needed extra space. It also has an on-site fitness center and restaurant.
Midrange and luxury
Riu Plaza | If you want a taste of luxury at a reasonable cost, the Riu Plaza might be your answer. I stayed here on one of my visits to the city and thought it was excellent value. Our room also had epic views of the city.
The Langham | When it comes to a luxury hotel in Chicago, it doesn’t get much better than the Langham Hotel. This five-star hotel is known for its impeccable service, luxurious rooms and views of Downtown Chicago.
The Peninsula | This is another one of the best hotels in Chicago. It offers fantastic service, modern rooms, and even an indoor swimming pool with epic city views.
River North and Streeterville
The River North and Streeterville neighbourhoods surround the Magnificent Mile and make up a large part of Downtown Chicago, and it’s where you’ll find most of the hotels.
While it’s technically two different neighbourhoods, I’ve included it in one area on this list as the benefits are similar, plus they’re right next to each other.
Both areas are north of the river and within walking distance of the main attractions. Streeterville is arguably slightly more beneficial because you’re closer to Lake Michigan. Plus, I find this area slightly quieter than River North.
However, River North has slightly more going on, especially in the evenings. Either way, you can’t really go wrong with either of these options.
Budget
Moxy | This is one of my favourite hotels in Chicago. The rooms are modern, there’s a fantastic bar on site, and it’s reasonably priced. There are some fantastic restaurants within walking distance too.
Kinzie | The rooms at the Kinzie aren’t quite as modern as Moxy, but they’re well-priced. Plus, it’s only a block away from the Chicago River.
Eurostars | This well-rated and budget-friendly hotel offers epic floor-to-ceiling views of Downtown Chicago. Plus, it’s only a few blocks away from the Magnificent Mile.
Mid-range & Luxury
The Westin | This stunning hotel is right on the Chicago River, offering fantastic views of Downtown Chicago.
Hampton Inn | This well-known hotel chain is in the heart of Downtown Chicago. The rooms are simple but sufficient, and everything is on your doorstep.
The Loews Chicago | This four-star hotel offers guests city or lake views and a luxurious indoor pool! If you want to explore the famous Navy Pier, it’s only a ten-minute walk from the hotel.
The Loop
The Loop is one of Chicago’s most iconic neighbourhoods and the heart of Downtown Chicago. The area is home to Chicago’s financial district and several iconic attractions, including the Willis Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, The Bean, Millennium Park, and several museums.
The Loop is not to be confused with The West Loop, another Chicago neighbourhood just west of the river.
My personal preference would be to stay in The Loop. The location really doesn’t get much more perfect! However, The West Loop does have a few great options, so just try to stick close to the river.
Budget
Hi Chicago | If you’re looking for a hostel, Hi Chicago is a fantastic option. It’s in an excellent location and offers both dorm and private rooms.
River Hotel | This classic hotel is located right on Chicago’s riverfront. Despite its low price, the four-star hotel has all the amenities you need for the perfect stay in Chicago.
The Allegro Royal | This is another budget-friendly hotel found right in the heart of the Downtown area. It’s just a few blocks from famous attractions like the Willis Tower and Millennium Park.
Mid-range & luxury
The St. Regis | This five-star hotel is one of the best hotels in Chicago. With luxury rooms, a swimming pool with incredible views, and rooms with views of the river, it really doesn’t get much better than this.
Hyatt Regency | Another river-front hotel, the Hyatt offers modern rooms with views of the city and river.
The Radisson Blu | This is another one of my favourite hotels in Chicago. The iconic building has a rooftop pool that overlooks the park and has a trendy bar. I’ve stayed here twice now and have never been disappointed.
The Renaissance | A fantastic option for those who want to be in the centre of the action for a reasonable price. The four-star hotel even has a rooftop bar.
Local places to stay in Chicago
Wicker Park
Wicker Park is one of my favourite places to explore in Chicago. This trendy area is known for its independent boutiques, cute coffee shops, and award-winning restaurants. Wicker Park is also a fantastic area to experience Chicago’s lively nightlife, with endless bars and live music venues in the neighbourhood.
If you want to experience a local side of Chicago, I highly recommend staying in Wicker Park. It’s a popular spot for young professionals to live, and it’s only a fifteen-minute ride on the L train to Downtown Chicago.
I have family who live in the area, so I’ve regularly been able to explore all it has to offer.
There are only a few hotels in Wicker Park, but there are plenty of Airbnbs. It really is the perfect place to experience a different and more local side of Chicago.
Hotels in Wicker Park
Stay 424 Hostel | If you’re travelling on a budget, Stay 424 is the perfect choice. It has both dorm and private rooms, and it’s in a fantastic location close to the L station.
Wicker Park Inn | This boutique hotel offers classic yet modern rooms in a beautiful property. It’s a small hotel, so you get very personal service. It’s an excellent option for Wicker Park.
The Robey | Located in the heart of the Wicker Park Neighbourhood, The Robey offers a range of modern rooms and a restaurant on the 13th floor, with some incredible city views.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is one of my favourite areas of Chicago! I absolutely love wandering through the neighbourhood. There are some fantastic lake and skyline views, and so many delicious restaurants and cute cafes to discover. It has easy access to Downtown Chicago and other Chicago Neighbourhoods.
Lincoln Park is also home to Chicago’s largest green space. It has several beautiful walking trails and it’s a fantastic place to spot wildlife. (Avoid the zoo area. Although free, the enclosures are small, and the animals look miserable.)
If you’re on a budget in Chicago, Lincoln Park is home to the Chicago Getaway Hostel, offering dorm and private rooms. There are also several apartment-style rooms available.
Logan Square
Logan Square is a popular Chicago neighbourhood known for its mix of trendy eateries, old-school charm, modern developments, boutique shops, and its lively craft beer scene. It’s become a hub for culture, and there are galleries, music venues and quirky art venues all over the area.
Even if you choose not to stay in Logan Square, it’s still worth exploring and including in your Chicago itinerary.
There isn’t much choice when it comes to hotels in Logan Square, but the Avondale Guesthouse or The Hotel at Midtown are fantastic options. Similar options are available on Booking and Airbnb.
Other options
If you’re not entirely convinced by the areas mentioned so far, another option could be The Gold Coast. This is one of Chicago’s most affluent and historic neighbourhoods, it’s just north of Downtown Chicago and south of Lincoln Park, so it’s very well-located. However, it’s a very residential area, so it’s not the best for those wanting to be close to the action.
If visiting attractions like the Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, and Shedd Aquarium is high on your list, you may want to consider accommodation close to The Museum Campus (South of Grant Park and close to South Loop).
There’s not a lot else going on in this area, but it’s a good location for those who want to experience a quieter side of Chicago. I suggest the Homewood Suites by Hilton or the four-star Le Meridian.
Summary: Where is the best place to stay in Chicago?
If this is your first time visiting Chicago, the best area to stay in Chicago is in the Downtown area, including the Magnificent Mile, the Loop, and River North.
You really can’t go wrong with these neighbourhoods. They’re close to the main attractions, surrounded by endless restaurants and bars, and are within walking distance from Lake Michigan and the beautiful Riverwalk.
If you prefer to stay somewhere that’s local and away from the tourist areas, I suggest either Logan Square or Wicker Park. Both of these neighbourhoods have plenty going on and excellent public transportation options.
