Chicago loves its visitors. With our Midwestern charm, we welcome tourists with open arms—if you don’t get in our way while we’re trying to catch a rush-hour train.
But vacations can get expensive and staying in conveniently located hotels can be pricey. These hostels offer budget-friendly places to rest your head every night, whether you’re traveling alone or with friends and family in tow. And locals, if you’re trying to keep your 400 square-foot studio free of messy guests, point them in these directions.
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616 W. Arlington Pl. 773-929-5380
Stay smack-dab in the middle of Lincoln Park at the Chicago Getaway Hostel. Only a few minutes from the zoo (!!!) and a five-minute walk to Halsted Street—where you’ll find great jazz and blues—this hostel puts you in a prime spot to enjoy the parts of Chicago that don’t include the Bean or Navy Pier—but you can hit those up, too, in just a short bus or train ride if you’re so inclined. No membership required. Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, coffee, kitchen and communal computers and televisions. Dorms from $35 per night.
24 E. Congress Parkway 312-360-0300
For visitors who want to be in the Loop, the HI Chicago Hostel is a fine choice. Located near the Jackson or Harold Washington “L” stops, this choice puts you within walking distance of Buckingham Fountain, the Art Institute and a variety of public transportation options to take you wherever you want to go. Membership required: Guests can purchase a $3 daily membership at check-in. Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, coffee, kitchen and communal computers and televisions. Dorms from $34 per night.
19 E. Ohio St. 312-940-3699
If you didn’t know better, the Freehand could pass for a run-of-the-mill hotel in River North that would clear out your wallet in one night. But the hotel is also home to shared rooms and bunks that won’t blow your travel budget. Coffee and tea spot Café Integral and Broken Shaker, a tiki-themed bar, are also located in Freehand. Free Wi-Fi and kitchen. Dorm beds from $35 per night.
310 S. Halsted St. 312-258-1399
The Parthenon Hostel is aptly located in Greektown, near West Loop and all of its renowned dining options. Parthenon also has an on-site restaurant and bar if you don’t feel like cooking. If you’re a Chicagoan looking for a staycation, look elsewhere. The Parthenon doesn’t accept guests whose zip codes start with “60.” Free Wi-Fi, communal computers, breakfast, kitchen and linens (but towels will run you $2). Dorms from $25.
1659 W. Division St. 312-804-3335
Wake up to the smell of fresh empanadas every day at Holiday Jones, a hostel located directly above 5411 Empanadas. Wicker Park is home to this boutique hostel fit for single travelers, those in groups and families. Only a block from the Blue Line, Holiday Jones is easily accessible from the city and also in the middle of Wicker Park restaurants and bars. Free breakfast, linens and towels, communal televisions and computers, kitchen and Wi-Fi. Dorms from $23.
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