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 ChicagoLoop: iconic ChicagoLincoln Park: scenic and sereneHyde Park: a cultural treasure troveWicker Park: hip and historicSouth Loop: museums and so much moreRiver North: nightlife and new restaurantsMore Chicago areas to stayLuckily, we’ve got your guide right here. Weve 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.

Crown Fountain in Millennium Park; photo by Kathleen HinkelBest 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 cityTop shopping: window shop along State Street, one of the city’s most famous retail corridors, home to the historic Macy’s on State StreetWaterfront 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 RiverwalkLive theatre: grab tickets to see a show at one of the opulent venues that make up the downtown theatre districtClose to events: walk to top festivals and events, including the Chicago Jazz Festival, Lollapalooza, Chicago Gourmet, and more

Chicago Cultural Center

Ranvestel Photographic What are things to do in the Loop?Millennium Park: the city’s signature downtown green space, home to the world-famous Cloud Gate sculptureChicago Riverwalk: a bustling pedestrian path with up-close skyscraper views, boat tours, and waterfront diningArt Institute of Chicago: one of the world’s top art museums, with an Impressionist art collection that rivals the LouvreChicago Cultural Center: the city’s largest hidden gem, filled with free exhibits, events, and the largest Tiffany glass domeSkydeck Chicago: see Chicago’s legendary skyline from the tallest observation deck in the countryBroadway in Chicago: catch the latest hits and pre-Broadway premieres inside stunning historic theatres

LH Rooftop, ©Adam Alexander Photography 2019

Skydeck Chicago What hotels are in the Loop?There are an abundance of hotel options in Chicagos 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

Photo by Kathleen HinkelBest 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.

Lincoln Park Zoo; photo by Abel Arciniega @tequilagraphics

Kingston Mines Why stay in Lincoln Park?Stroll charming streets: admire the stunning residential architecture or shop along Armitage Avenue near HalstedVisit the zoo: meet animals from around the world and enjoy the lovely grounds of this free, historic zooWander the lakefront: the neighborhood is bordered by the lake, where Chicagoans walk the Lakefront Trail, picnic in the grass, and swim at sandy beachesCheck out local museums: take the kids to a butterfly haven, see artifacts from the Great Chicago Fire, or admire contemporary art exhibitsEnjoy top dining: feast like a local at Michelin-starred restaurants, trendy new spots, and waterfront barsWhat 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 neighborhoodAlfred Caldwell Lily Pool: tucked away near the zoo, this zen garden is a local favoriteLincoln Park Conservatory: a free indoor botanic garden where flowers thrive all year longNorth Avenue Beach: one of the city’s most popular beaches, with beach volleyball, kayak rentals, and waterfront diningPeggy Notebaert Nature Museum: a family-friendly museum with hands-on exhibits designed to inspire a love of the natural worldChicago History Museum: learn about the fascinating history of our city, from the Great Chicago Fire to the World’s Fair and beyondSteppenwolf Theatre: one of the nations most influential ensemble companies, staging groundbreaking original productionsKingston Mines: a legendary blues club known for its nightly nonstop music on two stagesiO Theater: catch a show at this famous comedy club, in the city where improv was bornWrightwood 659: tucked away on a residential street, this striking exhibition space hosts rotating displays of contemporary art

Chicago History Museum; photo by Clayton Hauck

Photo by Kathleen Hinkel 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 neighborhoodsHotel 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 Loading...

Hyde Park: a cultural treasure trove

Choose Chicago HYDE PARK LOCATIONSBest 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 museumsLakefront green space: one of the citys 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

The Obama Presidential Center; photo by Angie McMonigal

Robie House in Chicagos Hyde Park neighborhood 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 SideUniversity of Chicago: the dramatic Gothic campus is home to museums, performance venues, and the daily rhythms of student lifeGriffin 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 exhibitsOsaka Garden: inside Jackson Park, the Osaka Garden is a peaceful sanctuary and a tiny slice of World’s Fair historySmart 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 yearsCourt Theatre: a Tony-Award-winning theatre that specializes in remixes and retellings of classic talesFrank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House: a UNESCO World Heritage site, this is one of the planet’s finest examples of Prairie-style architecture

Sophy Hyde Park; photo by Kathleen Hinkel

Osaka Garden 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 residentsHyatt Place Chicago-South/University Medical Center: situated along the bustling 53rd Street corridor, this inviting hotel is convenient for both business and leisure travelerThe 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 locationWicker Park: hip and historic

Th3 606 and Walsh Park Drone photograph from Bucktown view of SkylineBest 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 brandsBuzzy dining: choose from an array of local favorites, from viral bakeries to award-winning fusion cuisine to vegetarian diningConnected location: stay near a Blue Line stop to easily explore the surrounding area, get to or from O’Hare, or take a quick ride downtownStay like a local: enjoy a true neighborhood vibe and get to know some of Chicagos hidden gems

Shopping in Wicker Park

The 606 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 pathwayThe Den: catch podcast tapings, local and visiting comedy acts, local theatre groups, and moreChopin Theatre: this quirky venue is known for its eclectic programming, with an emphasis on the experiment and avant-gardeSubterranean: a legendary local venue with two floors of live music and themed dance nightsRoyal 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 showcaseThe Strip Club: a collection of rare vintage photobooths where you can snap the perfect Chicago souvenirHistoric homes: this area features a ton of cool residential architecture, with unique districts like Beer Baron Row

The Robey rooftop in Wicker Park; photo by Kathleen Hinkel

Do Division in Wicker Park 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 neighborhoodWicker Park Inn: a boutique spot with nine elegant rooms and a central locationRay’s Bucktown Bed and Breakfast: this welcoming BB is family-friendly and dog-friendly, with cooked-to-order breakfasts and free parkingHyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park: take in the spectacular skyline views from the rooftop loungeSouth Loop: museums and so much more

Maximo in Stanley Hall at the Field Museum, Photo by Lucy HewettBest 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 restaurantsClose to events: walk to major festivals and events at Grant Park, Soldier Field, Northerly Island, and McCormick PlaceNear downtown sights: enjoy easy access to classic Chicago attractions, including SkyDeck Chicago, the Art Institute, the lakefront, and moreA living canvas: this area is known for its proliferation of public art, with murals covering huge swaths of the neighborhood

Adler Planetarium

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 artistsBuddy Guy’s Legends: a mecca for blues fans, where the man himself plays a residency every yearGrant 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 worldPrairie Avenue District: admire historic homes along Chicagos original Millionaires Row,” now home to the Glessner House museum.

Buckingham Fountain

VU Rooftop 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

DISCO at CelesteBest 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 betweenLate nights: this area never sleeps, thanks to the abundance of cocktail lounges, clubs, hidden dive bars, and music venuesRiverfront access: it’s easy to hop on architecture boat tours, dinner cruises, kayak rentals, and moreArchitectural gems: get up-close views of some of the city’s most iconic buildings, like the Marina Towers and the Wrigley BuildingTop shopping: stay near iconic Michigan Avenue, home to flagship stores, multi-story malls, and unique retail experiencesWaterfront dining: the north edge of the river is lined with alfresco restaurants, offering views of the water and glittering skyline

Chicago First Lady boat cruises

TAO Chicago; photo by Adam Alexander Photography What are things to do in River North?House of Blues: a must for music lovers, this long-time venue draws top acts across genresDriehaus Museum: the city’s “Marble Palace” features ornate interiors and rotating exhibitsArt on the MART: cross the river to watch this nightly art experience, lighting up one of the city’s largest buildingsThe Magnificent Mile: take a stroll through one of the world’s most famous shopping districts360 CHICAGO: a few blocks north, this observation deck offers panoramic views, a cocktail bar, and the famous TILT experienceArt galleries: pop into contemporary galleries and showrooms to see works from emerging and established artists

Driehaus Museums Sculpture Gallery, photo by Alexander Vertikoff

Crying Tiger; photo by Lindsay Eberly 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 neighborhood in ChicagoPilsen: a colorful, artsy area known for its Hispanic culture, bars and restaurants, and abundance of galleries and muralsWest Loop: a food lovers mecca, this former industrial area is now one of the country’s hottest restaurant scenesLakeview: this lively neighborhood is home to historic Wrigley Field, a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and miles of scenic lakefrontAndersonville: known for its local-first ethos, this charming neighborhood is a great place to eat and shopGold Coast: an upscale lakefront area with opulent mansions, designer shopping, and historic charmUptown: a hub for music and entertainment, this diverse area is known for its historic music venues and cultural corridor known as “Asia on ArgyleBronzeville: the city’s “Black metropolis,” Bronzeville is a living monument to African American history and cultureOld Town: Old Town pulses with energy, thanks to a thriving nightlife corridor, a mix of new and long-standing restaurants, and iconic comedy clubsStreeterville: this slice of downtown offers proximity to the lakefront, Navy Pier, boat tours, and the tucked-away Ohio Street BeachExplore more Chicago neighborhoods and find your perfect place to stay.