Welcome to Chicago! Known as the windy city, Walt Disney’s hometown hosts gorgeous buildings, world-class museums, and a vibrant shopping district. There’s also a vast amount of art and food to enjoy in this one of the major cities of the United States. Whatever you’re looking for, they have it all. So, are you ready to discover the best of the Bulls’ home? Join us, on an exciting journey to unveil some of the best hotels in Chicago!
Where to Stay in Chicago
As the most populated city in Illinois, you should be able to find at least the top 10 things to do in Chicago. From shopping in a vibrant district, admiring the architecture, enjoying cultural attractions, and much more. But in order to find them all, you have to know exactly where to stay and choose from the best hotels in downtown Chicago.
Of all the neighborhoods in town, the Loop is perhaps the most popular with tourists. This is an area that often becomes the first stop for visitors. It’s home for the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the largest museums in the United State. Neighbored by the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, this is also one of the most lovely areas around. You won’t have a hard time finding some of the 11 most romantic hotels in Chicago here.
Most of Chicago’s significant attractions are in Lincoln Park. Here you can visit some of the historic structures that have survived the great fire of 1871. This is also a great area with an open-minded community. There are lots of bars and restaurants with a friendly vibe. In fact, some of the top 11 gay-friendly hotels in Chicago are located in this neighborhood.
For a little touch of luxury, we highly recommend the Magnificent Mile. This is the city’s commercial elite district, where you’ll find high-end shops, gourmet restaurants, and expensive hotels. Speaking of which, a number of the top 11 hotels with a rooftop pool in Chicago are located here. Double your fun by swimming while enjoying the beauty of Jazz city from the skyline!
Have you decided where to stay? If you haven’t, there’s no need to worry. Right after this break, we’ve got some recommendations for the best hotels in downtown Chicago that might inspire you.
Hyatt Place Chicago/Downtown – The Loop
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If you really want to explore the cultural and social side of Chicago, it’s important to choose a place to stay with a strategic location. Hyatt Place Chicago / Downtown offers these advantages, as they’re right in the heart of the city. 400 meters from here you’ll find the Willis Tower. While less than a mile is Millennium Park, one of the top tourist attractions in the midwestern United States.
Apart from being an ideal location, Hyatt Place Chicago also offers a number of attractive leisure facilities, such as a restaurant, fitness center, and of course, free WiFi access. As with most of the best hotels in downtown Chicago, each room comes with standard amenities such as cable TV, sofa, and refrigerator. A private bathroom is also featured, complete with a hairdryer and toiletries. If you need a desk for work or ironing facilities, both are available upon request. Talk about convenience!
Hyatt Place Chicago has a 24-hour front desk that’s ready to help you with any matter. Starting from dry cleaning services, luggage storage, booking tickets for attractions and shows, to delivering groceries! If you’re still not in the mood to leave the hotel, you can sit back and relax in their lounge area which boasts a spacious room and shared TV.
One of the city’s top attractions, Art Institute Chicago, is located less than a mile from here. We highly recommend stopping by the largest art museum in the United States. Founded in 1879, this museum houses valuable collections such as The Old Guitarist by Pablo Picasso and American Gothic by Grant Wood. No wonder this place is estimated to be visited by no less than 1.5 million people per year!
LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
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Just being close to Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River makes LondonHouse Chicago Curio Collection by Hilton special. But there was one thing that made them stand out from the crowd. It’s the only hotel in town to have a three-level rooftop bar! How cool is that? Picture this in your mind. Sit back and relax from evening to midnight, listening to live jazz music, while enjoying your favorite cocktail or drink. If this isn’t what you’re looking for in the best hotels in downtown Chicago, we don’t know anymore!
Indulge in the spacious rooms of LondonHouse Chicago Curio Collection. All come with a 55-inch flat-screen TV and free WiFi. Need to stay productive during the holidays? A dedicated workstation is readily available. Enjoy your rest time while enjoying the beautiful view, as there are large windows that overlook some of the city’s beautiful landmarks. However, not all rooms carry this lovely feature. So maybe you want to contact local staff for more information.
The LondonHouse Chicago Curio Collection also qualifies as hotels in Chicago Illinois near Navy Pier. It only takes 1.2 miles to travel to one of the city’s most beloved attractions. If you can’t get enough of the Chicago skyline, 0.86 miles from here is Willis Tower. Once the world’s tallest building for 25 years, here you can freely admire the beautiful view of the windy city through the bird’s eye view!
Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
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Put on your best travel shoes and bring lots, lots of cash, because there’ll be plenty of shopping during your stay at the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile! This luxury hotel is just two blocks from some shopping, dining, and entertainment centers on the Magnificent Mile, the most elite district in the windy city. Enjoy the best of Chicago, as this accommodation is set on the 32nd floor of a prism glass building with stunning views of Lake Michigan!
Stepping into the rooms at the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile will leave you feeling swept away by a wave of delightful luxury. The furnishing uses French art de Vivre. The mattress features a feather top duvet that is second to none. And don’t get us started with the bathroom, it’s all covered in marble! Just like most of the best hotels in downtown Chicago, you’ll also get standard amenities such as a flat-screen TV and free WiFi access.
Be sure to stop by the highly recommended Cafe des Architectes. From the name alone you might have guessed that this cafe serves menus that are very French-inspired. Enjoy it all on their open terrace, while enjoying the vibrant and warm Chicago atmosphere. For some light refreshment, make your way over to Le Bar. Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, this modern bar offers drinks and an unmatched gorgeous view!
Since it’s only 1.9 miles away, the Sofitel Chicago actually also qualifies as hotels in Chicago Illinois near Navy Pier. Within approximately the same distance you’ll also find the famous Art Institute of Chicago. Want to immerse yourself in Chicago’s life and its people? Visiting Millenium Park is highly recommended. It only takes about a 10-minute drive to reach this one of the city’s top attractions.
La Quinta by Wyndham Chicago Downtown
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For those who come to Chicago for some business affairs, La Quinta by Wyndham Chicago Downtown is at your service. This three-star accommodation offers a strategic location, right in the city’s financial district. Only a few steps to the Willis Tower, the tallest building in the windy city, and several office centers. Stay productive during the holidays, as they also offer a business center with printing services. Just like most of the best hotels in downtown Chicago, free WiFi is available in all areas.
The rooms at the Wyndham Chicago are also guaranteed not to disappoint. Everything’s decorated in a modern and tasteful way. Standard amenities such as a flat-screen TV with premium cable channels and a private bathroom are provided. Need to work in a quiet setting? Take advantage of the provided work desk with the ergonomic chair. You don’t even need to leave your room at all, as the hotel also provides in-room dining services. Nothing will stop you from catching those deadlines!
Once you’re done with all the business, go out because there’s so much to enjoy around here. Need a little exercise? There’s a fairly complete 24-hour fitness center that’s available free of charge for all guests. For some local attractions, we recommend the United Center and Lincoln Park Zoo. Both are only 2 miles from here and the latter is really worth considering, especially for those on vacation with the family. If you’re not in the mood to go too far, less than a mile is the Magnificent Mile, Chicago’s trendiest district. Get hours of fun as this area is home to brand name shops, top restaurants, and cool cafes.
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
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Don’t let the Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago‘s 92-story stainless steel building intimidate you, because inside you’ll find one of the friendliest services in town. Rated five-star, this stylish accommodation will ensure you have fun times while in the windy city. Indulge in their exclusive leisure facilities, such as luxury spas, fine dining venues, and swimming pools. Set along the Chicago River, this hotel clearly has all the rights of being the best hotels in downtown Chicago.
Get one of the best stay experiences in jazz city, as each of the spacious rooms at Trump International Hotel features floor-to-ceiling windows. It offers a gorgeous view of the Chicago skyline that’s second to none. Enjoy hours of classy entertainment via the flat-screen TV with premium cable channels provided. Let off some of the steam by soaking yourself in their luxurious marble-lined bathtub. If all that’s not enough, room service is only a call away!
To satisfy your culinary desires, Trump International Hotel has Terrace 16. Headed by the brilliant chef Nick Dostal, the hotel’s restaurant serves classic American menus guaranteed to blow your mind with its unexpected modern twists. Need a more relaxing moment? Sit in the bar area. Enjoy your favorite cocktail or drink while being accompanied by the gorgeous landscape of the Chicago River and the rest of the city.
For family vacationers, a visit to Michigan Avenue on the Magnificent Mile is highly recommended. A two-minute walk from the hotel, it has something for everyone. From shopping centers, restaurants, cafes, to entertainment. Speaking of which, one that you shouldn’t miss is the House of Blues. It’s the premier home for live music, folk art, and southern-inspired cuisine. It’s definitely worth checking out.
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago
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Set in the modern Aqua building, the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago offers another luxurious alternative for those who need to stay in the city of jazz. This classy accommodation can be found in Lakeshore East, an urban neighborhood that hosts some of the city’s tallest buildings. Its location is ideal for both business and leisure. Millennium Park and Magnificent Mile are within a five-minute walk, while the Campus Museum is only an eight-minute drive away.
Get a stay like no other, as the rooms at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago feature gorgeous views of the surrounding gardens and stunning Lake Michigan. For an alternative to standard entertainment, a flat-screen TV with cable channels is available. Need some quick refreshment? Take advantage of the minibar and mix your own poison. And like most of the best hotels in downtown Chicago, the hotel doesn’t fail to offer private bathrooms and free WiFi access.
Leisure facilities such as an indoor, outdoor swimming pool, outdoor track, and sauna are ready to welcome you while you’re here. If you come in summer, we highly recommend stopping by the seasonal outdoor pool featuring the sundeck. Lay down under the warm Chicago summer sunshine, after a refreshing and luxurious swimming session. Now that’s what we call celebrity treatment!
Breakfast is available at the FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar. The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves menus inspired by local cuisine. Expect some excellent seafood and meat dishes here. For those who have special needs, don’t worry. They also provide options for gluten-free cooking.
Hyatt Place Chicago River North
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Experience the glitzy side of the city, because the Hyatt Place Chicago River North is only two blocks away from the Magnificent Mile. Chicago’s fanciest district is the home of Michigan Avenue, the premiere home to some of the top brand stores and luxury shopping malls. Located in the heart of the city, staying at this hotel will also ensure you don’t miss all the action. Perfect for first-time visitors to Chicago.
The rooms at the Hyatt Place Chicago River North also deserve praise. All come with a 42-inch flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. For those who need some productive moments, there’s a separate work station with a desk. Want to welcome friends or guests? The hotel has got you covered with a seating area plus a sofa bed. However, please note that there are only a few rooms that feature iconic views of the city. We strongly recommend contacting local staff first to inquire about availability.
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the delicious dishes of star chef CJ Robson while here. Head to the Ema Restaurant next to the hotel lobby. Although relatively small, this eatery serves some of the best Mediterranean-inspired dishes in Chicago. Meanwhile for some snacks or soft drinks, simply go to the 24-hour on-site market.
1.3 miles from here’s the Navy Pier, one of the city’s tourist magnets. If you’re looking for hotels in Chicago Illinois near Navy Pier, Hyatt Place is worth considering. Softball fans, be sure not to miss Wrigley Field. The home of the Chicago Cubs can be found within a 15-minute drive. As for some alternative entertainment and art, the famous House of Blues is just within a few steps away.
Eurostars Magnificent Mile
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Welcome to a boutique hotel like no other. The Eurostars Magnificent Mile is ready to amaze you with extraordinary attention to detail. Its sleek, contemporary design deserves the highest praise. Indulge in their award-winning spa that ready to welcome you with top-notch service. Enjoy a unique stay experience in a place that combines avant-garde style and cutting-edge technology very well. Even better, this property is also among the top 11 pet-friendly hotels in Chicago!
The rooms on the Eurostars Magnificent Mile are no less attractive. As you would expect from a four-star hotel, all are carefully designed to maintain a unique character. It has a relaxed modern setting, with a minibar stocking chilled wines. Enjoy a little entertainment through the provided flat-screen TV. Admire gorgeous views of Chicago and its surroundings, as each room features floor-to-ceiling windows. Just like most of the best hotels in downtown Chicago, WiFi can be accessed for free in all areas.
Discover the best of Chicago culture, as this hotel is right in the bustle of the city. World-famous Michigan Avenue is just a stone’s throw away, while the Museum of Contemporary Art can be found within a 10-minute walk. Less than a mile is the Navy Pier, making Eurostarts Magnificent Mile also worthy of being included in the list of best hotels in Chicago Illinois near Navy Pier. Those coming for a business affair will also not miss all the fun, as The Loop business district just steps away from the hotel.
Rafaello Hotel
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When it comes to the best accommodations in Chicago, we can’t help but mention the Rafaello Hotel. This four-star property offering luxurious accommodation in the middle of world-famous Michigan Avenue. Enjoy some of your best time in the windy city on their incredible rooftop terrace. Be prepared to have a blast, as the hotel is also surrounded by some of the best that Chicago has to offer.
The European style rooms definitely make the Rafaello Hotel stand out from the crowd. All feature earth tones that create a calming atmosphere. Get a memorable stay with amenities such as a 46-inch flat-screen LED TV, private en suite bathroom, and microwave. Meanwhile, sofa beds are available for those who book a suite type of room. And just like most of the best hotels in downtown Chicago, WiFi is available in all areas at no extra cost.
Get one of the best dining experiences in Chicago when you stop by Pelago Ristorante. Rafaello’s pride serves Italian dishes, all of which are made from the best local ingredients. For some little exercise, there’s a fitness center with free access for all guests. Meanwhile, print and fax services are available at the business center, just in case you need to get some work done.
A three-minute walk from Rafaello is Oak Street Beach, a popular spot that offers paths for cyclists, rollerbladers, and walkers. It’s also a great place to find some of Chicago’s best restaurants, especially if you’re not in the mood for some swimming or beach volleyball. However, please note that the parking area is only available on the street and is limited.
Best Western River North Hotel
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We always like hotels that have roof decks. Relaxing while gazing at the beautiful skyline of a city is always an interesting experience. This is one of the reasons why we’re happy to recommend the Best Western River North Hotel. In addition to stunning landscapes, this three-star property has an indoor heated pool and a well-equipped fitness center. The hotel also has a superior location, being only five blocks from the entertainment and shopping center of the Magnificent Mile.
Get yourself a great stay in Chicago, as Best Western River North Hotel provides spacious rooms with full amenities. Enjoy hours of entertainment via a flat-screen TV with premium cable channels. Brighten your mood at the start of the day with a warm cup of joe from the coffee maker. In case you need something from the internet, browse without worrying about data because there’s free WiFi available. And just like most of the best hotels in downtown Chicago, room service is available at your service.
Experience one of the best vacation experiences, as Best Western River North, is also ranked among the best hotels in Chicago Illinois near Navy Pier. You can find this top-visited attraction within 1.42 miles. Other notable landmarks, such as Millenium Park and Willis Tower, can also be visited within roughly the same distance. For you, Chicago Cubs fan, no trip to the windy city is complete without a visit to Wrigley Field. It’s only 6 miles from the hotel and they offer a variety of interesting tour programs for tourists most days.
Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago
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Location is one of the main things to consider when choosing a place to stay. That’s what makes the Congress Plaza Hotel quite recommended. This three-star property stands directly across Millenium Park, a place many consider the heart of Chicago. Apart from that, it also offers elegance and history. The building is the work of the famous architect Clinton J. Warren and has been around since 1893. Apart from having an important role in the development of the city, it also has beautiful views of the city and the lake.
Just like the historical story, the rooms at the Congress Plaza Hotel are no less impressive. There are contemporary amenities that blend well with classic styles. We like the high ceiling feature the most, as it makes the room feel more spacious. Just like most of the best hotels in downtown Chicago, you’ll get standard facilities such as a coffee maker, work desk, private bathroom, and flat-screen TV. For those traveling with family, we recommend booking a special type of room with a separate living area.
Some of the must-see sights of Chicago are within easy reach of the Congress Plaza Hotel. Art Institute, Buckingham Fountain, and Lake Michigan are just steps away. However, if you’re more into shopping, we recommend taking the A Most Magnificent Mile Shopping and Sightseeing Tour. For two hours, you’ll experience many shops and sights. Learn why this retail boulevard is one of the best in the world.
Recommended Restaurants/Bars in Chicago:
- Billy Goat Tavern – We don’t usually recommend crowded places to eat, but this one is an exception. This local food magnet has burgers that are, in all likelihood, among the best you’ve ever tried. We highly recommend ordering their famous ‘cheezborger’. Finish with a Schlitz beer and you know you’re in for one of the best culinary experiences in Chicago.
- Hoosier Mama Pie Company – For sweet teeth, this food heaven is a must-visit while in Chicago. The interior features pastel colors of the 1950s, creating a fun and friendly Americana vibe. All of the menus are highly recommended, but make sure you don’t miss the Dutch cranberry and chocolate chess sour-cream pie. Finish with fresh warm coffee and you’re in for a treat.
- Girl & The Goat – When it comes to goat dishes, most Chichagoers will almost certainly mention this dining place. It’s not hard to find why, as this restaurant is always full every evening. Most fans appreciate the fact that the mutton served here is of top quality, sourced from the best local farms. Give it a try if you get a chance.
Recommended Activities in Chicago:
- Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise – Cruise along the Chicago River while discovering some of the city’s finest architecture. Discover the unique facts of some notable buildings in the windy city, as you’re accompanied by an experienced professional guide. Explore all the main areas of the city via the three main river branches and have an unforgettable holiday experience.
- Chicago: 45-Minute Private Helicopter Flight for 1-3 People – Enjoy Chicago from above the clouds. Get a little thrill, as you’ll be invited to experience a ‘doors off’ flight! Accompanied by a charismatic and experienced guide, learn more about the impressive buildings in the city of jazz. Find out the interesting stories behind the founding of all that amazing architecture.
- Chicago Underground Donut Tour – Besides pizza, did you know that Chicago is also famous for its sweet rolls? Learn more about this, as you browse the city’s four famous donut shops. Enjoy some local delicacies on the one and only donut tour in the windy city!
