Hotels in Downtown Chicago, Chicago

Top reasons to visit Downtown Chicago

• Iconic Skyscrapers: Marvel at the stunning skyline of Downtown Chicago, featuring architectural masterpieces and historic buildings.
• Scenic Riverwalk: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Chicago Riverwalk, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture with diverse entertainment options, from live music to theatrical performances.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Discover numerous activities suitable for families, ensuring a memorable holiday for all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of hotels, catering to every traveller's needs, from luxury to boutique stays.

Find great hotels in Downtown Chicago

Experience the vibrant charm of Downtown Chicago with a stay in one of its exceptional hotels. Whether you seek a pet-friendly retreat, business amenities, or an LGBTQIA-friendly environment, you'll find accommodation options tailored to every traveller's needs. From renowned chains like Wyndham to charming boutique hotels, Downtown Chicago offers a diverse range of choices for an unforgettable urban getaway.

• Congress Plaza Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Downtown Chicago, the Congress Plaza Hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities. With a 3.5-star rating and a guest rating of 8.0, this hotel caters to business travellers and shopping enthusiasts alike. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a business centre, and meeting facilities, all within close proximity to the vibrant shopping district. The hotel’s classic architecture offers a unique backdrop for your stay, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a blend of work and leisure.
• Best Western Grant Park Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.2 and is perfect for families visiting Downtown Chicago. The Best Western Grant Park Hotel offers essential amenities, including free cribs and child safety features, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. Located in the bustling shopping district, the hotel allows easy access to local attractions. With its focus on family-friendly services and a welcoming atmosphere, it provides a practical and enjoyable retreat for those looking to explore the city together.
• LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton: A luxurious 4.5-star hotel, the LondonHouse Chicago offers an opulent experience with a guest rating of 9.4. This stunning property features a full-service spa and pool, perfect for relaxation after a day of shopping. The hotel’s elegant design reflects a sophisticated London theme, while its prime location in the shopping district allows guests to indulge in both luxury and convenience. With treatments available at the onsite spa, this hotel is a splendid choice for those seeking a refined escape in the city.

Where to stay near Downtown Chicago

Downtown Chicago offers a vibrant blend of urban excitement and stunning scenery, perfect for family and outdoor adventures. Explore the iconic city skyline and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere filled with friendly people. With its bustling business districts and charming neighbourhoods, Downtown Chicago is an ideal base for unforgettable city getaways. Discover the heart of the Windy City, where every corner reveals a new experience waiting to be enjoyed.

• Chicago: As a vibrant metropolis, Downtown Chicago serves as the heart of the city. Known for its rich cultural tapestry, Chicago attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons from June to August. Tourists flock here for family-friendly activities and city-themed experiences. Amongst the notable highlights are the bustling shopping areas and renowned theatres, making it an ideal spot for those seeking entertainment. Major landmarks such as the local sports facilities and picturesque urban parks provide ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation, embodying the essence of city life.
• Magnificent Mile: Located a mere 805m from Downtown Chicago, the Magnificent Mile is famed for its luxurious shopping and vibrant atmosphere. This neighbourhood sees a surge of visitors particularly between March to April and July. Families and city explorers alike will find a wealth of outdoor activities and educational venues to enjoy. The proximity to major tourist precincts and urban parks enhances its appeal, while the surrounding sports facilities and entertainment arenas ensure there is never a dull moment. It’s a perfect blend of leisure and excitement.
• The Loop: Also situated 805m from Downtown Chicago, The Loop is the city's central business district, brimming with energy and activity. With steady visitor numbers peaking during March to April and July, The Loop offers a dynamic environment for families and urban adventurers. The area is renowned for its shopping options, theatres, and entertainment venues. Surrounded by tourist precincts, urban parks, and sports facilities, The Loop provides an engaging mix of culture and recreation, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Chicago.

Things to do in Downtown Chicago

Shopping

Discover the iconic Water Tower Place, a multi-level shopping centre featuring a mix of high-street brands and unique boutiques. Explore the historic State Street, known for its vibrant shopping scene, where you can find everything from department stores to charming souvenir shops.

Recreation

In Downtown Chicago, the Spa at the Four Seasons offers a tranquil escape with rejuvenating treatments and a serene atmosphere. Nearby, the Chicago Athletic Association features a rooftop bar where you can unwind with stunning views of the city, ideal for relaxation after a day of exploration.

Adventure

The Chicago River offers thrilling kayaking adventures, allowing you to paddle through the city's iconic architecture. For an adrenaline rush, visit the Skydeck at Willis Tower, where you can step onto a glass ledge and gaze down at the bustling streets below.

Nightlife

In Downtown Chicago, the lively atmosphere comes alive with venues like the House of Blues, where live music fills the air, and the iconic The Aviary offers creative cocktails in a chic setting. For a vibrant dance scene, check out Smart Bar, known for its eclectic DJs and energetic vibe.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Chicago

For a budget-friendly visit to Downtown Chicago, consider travelling between December to February when accommodation prices dip. Mondays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find affordable hotels by filtering for your budget and preferences, including eco-certified options. Additionally, save money by booking a package that includes flights and activities. To navigate the city economically, rely on public transport such as the CTA trains and buses, which offer an affordable way to explore the attractions.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Chicago are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown Chicago is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Chicago is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Downtown Chicago with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Downtown Chicago

Downtown Chicago is ideal for family-friendly, outdoor city-themed holidays, featuring stunning skyscrapers, urban parks, and historic buildings. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy activities suitable for families. Notable attractions include the scenic Chicago Riverwalk and the picturesque Chicago River, providing ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation in this vibrant urban setting.

• Michigan Avenue: Known as the Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue is a bustling thoroughfare lined with luxurious shops, restaurants, and iconic architecture. Experience the vibrant city atmosphere while exploring the rich blend of modern and historic buildings.
• Millennium Park: This urban oasis in the heart of Chicago offers a plethora of outdoor activities and public art installations, including the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. Ideal for families, it’s a perfect spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, and enjoying live performances.
• Art Institute of Chicago: Renowned for its extensive collection of artworks, this prestigious art museum showcases pieces from various cultures and eras. Immerse yourself in the world of art and culture, admiring masterpieces that span centuries.

Best time to go to Downtown Chicago

The best time to visit Downtown Chicago is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Chicago

Flying into Downtown Chicago is convenient, with O'Hare International Airport (ORD) located 26km away. A selection of nearby hotels includes the 4.5-star Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel and the Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago, both 3km from the airport. Travellers can enjoy easy access to the airport from these hotels. For those considering South Bend International Airport (SBN), situated 111km away, options like the 4-star Morris Inn and Doubletree Hotel South Bend are available, offering limited shuttle services. Additionally, Greater Rockford Airport (RFD) is 127km from Downtown, with hotels like Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront within a short distance, ensuring convenient travel arrangements.