Where to Stay in Chicago (13 Best Places, By a Local)

13 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in Chicago

The center of downtown Chicago is known as “the Loop.” All train lines meet and form a “loop” in this part of the city, hence the name. The Chicago River and Lake Michigan border the Loop, and other neighborhoods are located around it. 

Popular neighborhoods like River North, Gold Coast, and Lincoln Park are in the north. Areas like Wicker Park and West Loop fall to the west. Neighborhoods like South Loop and Hyde Park are to the south. 

Chicago Loop

👉 Best Area For First-Time Visitors | ✨ Best Loop Hotels: River Hotel • Chicago Athletic Association • Pendry Chicago

The Chicago Loop is commonly referred to as “the Loop” by locals and is the heart of downtown Chicago. This part of Chicago is where all train lines meet or “loop,” giving the neighborhood its name. It’s the best area to stay if you’re a first-time visitor. 

The Loop is where you’ll find Chicago’s top attractions like Millennium Park, Cloud Gate, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Staying here allows you to walk and take the train to other museums and landmarks throughout the city. You’ll also be within walking distance of tons of restaurants and shops, making it easy to explore night and day.

I recommend staying at the River Hotel for its awesome location. It overlooks the Chicago River and is a great value overall. The Chicago Athletic Association is another fantastic hotel in the Loop with boutique decor and views of Grant Park.

Pros of Staying in Chicago Loop Neighborhood:

• Central location
• Walkable
• Close to shops, restaurants, and top attractions
• Some of the best Chicago hotels are located here
• Accessible by Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines

Cons of Staying in Chicago Loop Neighborhood:

• Noisy
• Crowded
• Expensive
• Touristy

River North

👉 Best Area For Nightlife | ✨ Best River North Hotels: Freehand Chicago • The Westin Chicago River North • Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown

River North is where to stay in Chicago if you want to be close to the city center and partake in some nightlife. I’d especially recommend River North to young professionals who want that vibrant city life feel. However, it’s a good area to stay for anyone new to the city. 

River North is located just north of the Loop across the Chicago River. This area is full of trendy restaurants, art galleries, bars, and clubs. You’ll be within walking distance of the Loop, Magnificent Mile, and other popular areas. The Westin Chicago River North is an overall good choice with a great location. 

Freehand Chicago is another good hotel that’s ideal for those visiting Chicago on a budget. It offers family rooms and bunk-style rooms, which is good for families and groups of friends.

Pros of Staying in River North Neighborhood:

• Central location
• Walkable
• Close to shops and restaurants
• Vibrant nightlife
• Close to the Chicago River
• Accessible by Brown, Purple, and Red Lines

Cons of Staying in River North Neighborhood:

• Noisy from nightlife
• Less local character

Magnificent Mile

👉 Best Area For Shopping | ✨ Best Magnificent Mile Hotels: Park Hyatt Chicago • The Gwen, Michigan Avenue Chicago • The Drake Hotel

The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s most famous shopping street, located on N Michigan Avenue. It’s sandwiched between River North and Streeterville, and a great area to stay if shopping is a priority.

You’ll find countless name-brand shops and landmarks here. Luxury shops include places like The RealReal, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Louis Vuitton. Places like the Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Water Tower Place Mall are here. Notable Chicago landmarks lie along the Magnificent Mile, including the Historic Water Tower and 875 North Michigan Ave. 

The downside to staying near the Magnificent Mile is that it tends to be more expensive since it’s a touristy area. Park Hyatt Chicago is an expensive hotel here, but it’s luxurious, has a great location, and views of Lake Michigan. 

Pros of Staying in Magnificent Mile Neighborhood:

• Great shopping
• Central location
• Walkable
• Close to Lake Michigan 
• Accessible by the Red Line

Cons of Staying in Magnificent Mile Neighborhood:

• Can be pricey
• A bit touristy 

Streeterville

👉 Best Downtown Area For Families | ✨ Best Streeterville Hotels: Loews Chicago Hotel • Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile • Courtyard Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile

Streeterville is located just east of the Magnificent Mile. I recommend Streeterville to families who’d prefer to stay downtown. It’s closest to Navy Pier, which is a popular attraction for families. Navy Pier is home to rides, the Chicago Children’s Museum, Chicago’s Funhouse Maze, and other activities.

Places like The LEGO Store Chicago, American Girl Place, the Museum of Ice Cream, and Maggie Daley Park are also within walking distance in Streeterville. Other Chicago attractions like Millennium Park, 360 Chicago at the John Hancock Center, and the Museum of Contemporary Art are close, too.

Loews Chicago Hotel is a good hotel choice. However, all the hotels mentioned for Streeterville are highly rated and offer family rooms.

Pros of Staying in Streeterville Neighborhood:

• Central location
• Family-friendly attractions nearby
• Close to shopping and restaurants
• Accessible by the Red Line

Cons of Staying in Streeterville Neighborhood:

• Can be noisy from nearby nightlife and hospital 
• Can be pricey
• Less local charm

Lincoln Park

👉 Best Area For Families | ✨ Best Lincoln Park Hotels: Hotel Lincoln • Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago • The Willows Hotel

Lincoln Park is the best place to stay in Chicago for families. This northern neighborhood is walkable, generally safe, and full of green space (Lincoln Park is the largest of Chicago’s parks). Lincoln Park is also a nice choice for returning visitors who are familiar with Chicago and want a quieter, local vibe.

The neighborhood of Lincoln Park is full of brownstones and a variety of vacation rental options. The hotel options are pretty limited, though. Hotel Lincoln is the main hotel. This is what makes it a quieter, less touristy neighborhood overall. 

You’ll have easy access to attractions like Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago History Museum, and North Avenue Beach. There are also great streets for walking around, plus cute shops and great restaurants to try. The area around W Armitage Avenue and N Halsted Street is lively.

Pros of Staying in Lincoln Park Neighborhood:

• Walkable
• Local charm
• Lots of local shops and restaurants
• Great greenspace
• One of Chicago’s safest areas
• Accessible by Brown, Purple, and Red Lines

Cons of Staying in Lincoln Park Neighborhood:

• Not the most convenient public transportation access
• Farther from downtown Chicago 
• Limited hotel options

West Loop

👉 Best Area For Foodies | ✨ Best West Loop Hotels: Nobu Hotel Chicago • The Publishing House Bed and Breakfast • The Hoxton, Chicago

The West Loop is where to stay in Chicago if you want to experience its foodie scene. It’s one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods and also ideal if you’re visiting for an event at the United Center.

This neighborhood is located west of the Loop and is chock full of trendy restaurants and bars. Some of Chicago’s best restaurants like Girl & The Goat and Au Cheval are located here, along with Time Out Market. There are so many other amazing restaurants here, though.

The West Loop is home to trendy, unique hotels that match the neighborhood’s lively vibe. Nobu Hotel is a modern luxury hotel with three restaurants (including a rooftop bar) right in the Fulton Market District. The Publishing House Bed and Breakfast is a highly-rated boutique hotel with a more relaxed atmosphere.

Pros of Staying in West Loop Neighborhood:

• World-class food scene 
• Trendy and lively atmosphere
• Accessible by the Green & Pink Lines

Cons of Staying in West Loop Neighborhood:

• Can be pricey
• Limited hotel options 
• Farther from top Chicago attractions

Wicker Park

👉 Best Area For Young People | ✨ Best Wicker Park Hotels: The Robey • Wicker Park Inn • Hyatt Place Chicago Wicker Park

Wicker Park is a fantastic neighborhood for younger visitors who want a vibrant yet local atmosphere, while still having easy access to downtown Chicago. 

Wicker Park is located northwest of the Loop. It’s home to tons of restaurants, coffee shops,music venues, and vintage boutiques. The vibe here is buzzing but not too touristy. It’s a part of town that many locals love to visit and explore. There are also cute residential streets to wander down.

I recommend staying at The Robey to be in the heart of Wicker Park. This hotel provides great views and a boutique atmosphere. Wicker Park Inn is a good option for couples since it’s on a quieter residential street but is still close to everything.

Pros of Staying in Wicker Park Neighborhood:

• Local charm 
• Lots of shops and restaurants to enjoy
• Vibrant but not too touristy 
• Accessible by the Blue Line

Cons of Staying in Wicker Park Neighborhood:

• Farther from downtown Chicago
• Can be noisy 

Gold Coast

👉 Best Area For Luxury | ✨ Best Gold Coast Hotels: Viceroy Chicago • Thompson Chicago • Ambassador Chicago

Gold Coast is an affluent neighborhood in Chicago’s Near North Side. This is where to stay in Chicago if you want luxury, peace, and quiet. 

Gold Coast is a mix of quiet residential streets and commercial shopping areas. You’ll find picturesque brownstones on tree-lined streets. Luxury stores like Giorgio Armani, Chanel, and Hermes can be found around Oak Street near the top of the Magnificent Mile.

On the other hand, Gold Coast has easy access to nature and scenery. The famous Lake Shore Drive hugs the eastern edge of Gold Coast. You can easily access Lake Michigan and Oak Street Beach from this neighborhood. 

Viceroy Chicago is a luxurious hotel with beautiful rooms and attentive staff. It’s a great option for couples especially. 

Pros of Staying in Gold Coast Neighborhood:

• Luxurious atmosphere
• Safe
• Centrally located
• Walkable
• Close to Lake Michigan
• Accessible by the Red Line

Cons of Staying in Gold Coast Neighborhood:

• More expensive
• Not much nightlife

Old Town

👉 Best Area For Comedy Shows & Convenience | ✨ Best Old Town Hotels: Hotel Lincoln • Claridge House • The Sono Chicago

Old Town is a great area for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it’s home to top-notch comedy venues. The iconic Second City Comedy Club is located in the heart of Old Town. You’ll also find local comedy spots like Zanies and BATSU! Chicago. And, you can easily hop on a bus or rideshare to reach more comedy clubs in nearby Wicker Park.

Secondly, Old Town is conveniently located at the crossroads of popular places. Lincoln Park (neighborhood and park), North Avenue Beach, and the Lakefront Trail are within short walking distance. Downtown areas like the Loop, River North, and Magnificent Mile are just a stone’s throw away, too. 

There aren’t many hotels in Old Town, but there is Hotel Lincoln. This hotel has an awesome location overlooking Lincoln Park and it’s right near the heart of Old Town. I also recommend looking into vacation rentals for your stay. 

Pros of Staying in Old Town Neighborhood:

• Very walkable
• Convenient location
• Close to other popular areas
• Plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from
• Great area for comedy clubs

Cons of Staying in Old Town Neighborhood:

• Limited hotel options

📚 Old Town Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Comedy Shows & Convenience
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Hotel Lincoln • Claridge House • The Sono Chicago

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Old Town

🍽️ Where to Eat – Evette’s Lincoln Park ($$), Topo Gigio Ristorante ($$), Nookies on Wells ($$), Small Cheval – Old Town ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Old Town Ale House,Marge’s Still,Corcoran’s Grill & Pub

🎟️ Top Attractions – The Second City Comedy Club,Zanies Comedy Night Club,Chicago History Museum,Lincoln Park,Lincoln Park Zoo,Lakefront Trail

South Loop

👉 Best Area For Museums & Stadium Events | ✨ Best South Loop Hotels: Homewood Suites • The Blackstone, Autograph Collection • Hilton Chicago

South Loop is located where it sounds: south of the Loop. This part of the city is where to stay in Chicago if visiting museums is a top priority, or if you’re in town for an event at Soldier Field.

The South Loop is home to Chicago’s lakefront Museum Campus. Here, you’ll find three major Chicago museums: Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium. The South Loop also puts you near the southern edge of Grant Park. So, you can easily access the Art Institute and attractions like Millennium Park.

Soldier Field is also located in the South Loop and is the home to the Chicago Bears football team. Many stadium concerts are held here, too. Homewood Suites is a great hotel choice for its proximity to Museum Campus and Soldier Field.

Pros of Staying in South Loop Neighborhood:

• Close to museums and Soldier Field
• Accessible by the Red, Orange, and Green Lines
• Close to downtown Chicago

Cons of Staying in South Loop Neighborhood:

• Not as walkable as other neighborhoods
• More limited hotel options

📚 South Loop Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Museums & Stadium Events
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Homewood Suites • The Blackstone, Autograph Collection • Hilton Chicago

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in South Loop

🍽️ Where to Eat – Eleven City Diner ($$), Lowcountry South Loop ($$), Flo & Santos ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Kasey’s Tavern,First Draft,Reggies Chicago

🎟️ Top Attractions – Shedd Aquarium,Field Museum,Adler Planetarium,Soldier Field,Buddy Guy’s Legends,Northerly Island Park,12th Street Beach,Printer’s Row

Hyde Park

👉 Best Area For History & Culture | ✨ Best Hyde Park Hotels: Sophy Hyde Park • Hyatt Place Chicago-South/University Medical Center • Best Western Plus Hyde Park Chicago Hotel

Hyde Park is a historic neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side. I recommend Hyde Park to those who are less interested in tourist attractions and more interested in Chicago’s history and culture. 

The University of Chicago is located here. Its beautiful campus features Gothic-style architecture and is worth strolling around, especially in the fall. This also makes Hyde Park a good place to stay for prospective college students of the university. 

Other attractions in Hyde Park include the Museum of Science and Industry, Frederick C. Robie House, and the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center. 

I recommend staying at Sophy Hyde Park, a highly-rated boutique hotel. It’s within walking distance of shops and restaurants and about a mile from the Museum of Science and Industry and the University of Chicago.

Pros of Staying in Hyde Park Neighborhood:

• Local charm and history 
• Attractions to explore 
• Vibrant local culture 
• Walkable areas
• Lots of shops and restaurants
• Accessible by the Green Line 

Cons of Staying in Hyde Park Neighborhood:

• Far from downtown attractions
• Limited hotel options 

📚 Hyde Park Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for History & Culture
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Sophy Hyde Park • Hyatt Place Chicago-South/University Medical Center • Best Western Plus Hyde Park Chicago Hotel

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Hyde Park

🍽️ Where to Eat – Virtue Restaurant ($$$), Valois Restaurant ($), Ascione Bistro ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – The Promontory,Woodlawn Tap,Cove Lounge

🎟️ Top Attractions – University of Chicago,Museum of Science and Industry,Frederick C. Robie House,Smart Museum of Art,Promontory Point,Jackson Park

Lakeview

👉 Best Area For Sports & Local Charm | ✨ Best Lake View Hotels: Hotel Zachary • Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel • Majestic Hotel

Lakeview is a more local neighborhood on Chicago’s North Side. It’s a great neighborhood for visitors catching a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field. It’s also good for returning visitors who want to experience a more local side of Chicago. 

A handful of smaller neighborhoods make up Lakeview. These include Wrigleyville, Boystown, Northalsted, Lake View East, and Central Lake View. Wrigleyville is the best area for Chicago Cubs fans. Boystown is a great area for LGBTQ visitors, as it’s especially LGBTQ-friendly. 

Lakeview is a great place to stay in Chicago, as it’s highly walkable and there are cool places to explore. Check out local spots like Music Box Theatre and Southport Corridor. Lake Michigan borders Lakeview, so you’ll have easy access to less crowded Lake Michigan beaches.

Hotel Zachary is a highly-rated boutique hotel across from Wrigley Field and right by the train. 

Pros of Staying in Lakeview Neighborhood:

• Lots of shops, restaurants, and dive bars
• Famous live music venues 
• Walkable
• Safe 
• One of the easier places to drive in Chicago
• Accessible by the Brown, Purple, and Red Lines

Cons of Staying in Lakeview Neighborhood:

• Farther from the city center 

📚 Lakeview Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Sports & Local Charm
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – Hotel Zachary • Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel • Majestic Hotel

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Lakeview

🍽️ Where to Eat – The Chicago Diner ($$), Southport Grocery and Cafe ($$), La Biznaga ($)

🍸 Where to Drink – Delilah’s, Wilde Bar & Restaurant,L & L Tavern

🎟️ Top Attractions – Wrigley Field,Music Box Theatre,The Vic Theatre,Laugh Factory,Belmont Harbor,Southport Corridor

Andersonville

👉 Best Area For Small Town Vibes | ✨ Best Andersonville Hotels: The Guesthouse Hotel • House 5863 – Chicago Bed and Breakfast

I love visiting Andersonville when I’m craving small-town vibes. Andersonville is located on Chicago’s far north side, about 30 minutes by car or 50 minutes by train. 

It’s definitely a little out of the way. However, it’s perfect for repeat Chicago visitors and people doing longer stays. Andersonville is also ideal for those who want a more quaint and local experience while still having decent access to bigger attractions. 

The main drag of Andersonville is filled with unique local shops and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to be if you just want to browse and window shop. Think home stores, bookstores, antique shops, bakeries, and more. 

Andersonville doesn’t have a ton of hotel options, but The Guesthouse Hotel is a beautifully decorated suite-style hotel nearby. I also recommend looking into vacation rentals.

Pros of Staying in Andersonville Neighborhood:

• Charming local atmosphere
• Tons of independently owned shops, restaurants, and businesses 
• Not far from Chicago beaches
• Very walkable 

Cons of Staying in Andersonville Neighborhood:

• Pretty far from downtown Chicago 
• Farther from top attractions and museums around Chicago
• Limited hotel options

📚 Andersonville Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Small-Town Vibes
Google Map

✨ Best Hotels – The Guesthouse Hotel • House 5863 – Chicago Bed and Breakfast

🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Andersonville

🍽️ Where to Eat – Little Bad Wolf ($$), Lady Gregory’s Irish Bar & Restaurant ($$), Calo Ristorante ($$)

🍸 Where to Drink – Lady Gregory’s Irish Bar & Restaurant,Marty’s,Nobody’s Darling,Hopleaf

🎟️ Top Attractions – Swedish American Museum,Chicago Magic Lounge,Gethsemane Garden Center,Women & Children First

Tips for Staying in Chicago

Choose the Right Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chicago is between late spring through the fall. These times of year offer the most enjoyable weather for exploring Chicago. Although, the summer can get hot. Choose the right time to maximize your itinerary. This also makes it easier to know what to pack.

Pick a Neighborhood Based on Your Planned Activities & Attractions 

One of my top Chicago travel tips is to select your must-see attractions. Figure out where these activities are located and decide where to stay in Chicago accordingly. The Chicago Loop and other downtown neighborhoods put most visitors in a good spot. Although some visitors may have a better stay in other areas.

Take Public Transportation Most of the Time

Public transportation is pretty reliable and extensive throughout the city. I encourage you to use public transportation to get around Chicago during the day. However, use ride shares if you plan on being out late at night just to be safe. 

Do note that taking the train is a great way to go to and from the city and the airports: Chicago O’Hare and Chicago Midway.

Book Restaurant Reservations Ahead of Time

Book restaurant reservations as early as possible for peace of mind. This is especially important if you want to dine at popular Chicago restaurants like Girl and The Goat, Smyth + The Loyalist, Galit, and others. 

Explore Beyond the Loop

Chicago has tons of exciting things to see, do, and experience downtown. But I believe the best of Chicago lies beyond the Loop in different neighborhoods. I highly encourage you to venture beyond downtown and explore Chicago neighborhoods beyond the ones in this guide. 

FAQs About Where to Stay in Chicago

What are the best areas to stay in Chicago for first-timers?

The Chicago Loop,River North, and Magnificent Mile are the best areas to stay in Chicago for first-timers because all these areas are in downtown Chicago. These neighborhoods are centrally located and within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and top attractions.

What are safe areas to stay in Chicago?

Lincoln Park and Gold Coast are safe areas to stay in Chicago. However, staying in downtown areas like the Chicago Loop,River North, and Magnificent Mile are generally safe for visitors because these areas are touristy. 

When is the best time to visit Chicago?

The best time to visit Chicago is in the summer and fall. These seasons bring good weather and lots of festivals and events to the city. 

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That’s a wrap on where to stay in Chicago! I hope you found this guide helpful and feel better prepared for your visit to the Windy City. Read our 5-day Chicago itinerary for more planning tips.