20 Best Hotels In Downtown Chicago

Address: 17 E Monroe St

Type: 4-star hotel

The Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel, is a landmark in downtown Chicago. The hotel was originally built in 1871 as a grand gesture by Potter Palmer to his wife Bertha. Though it fell victim to the Great Chicago Fire just days later, the hotel was successively rebuilt and now stands as the longest-operating hotel in North America.

The opulent décor and Impressionist art of the hotel is a feast for the eyes. The two-story, gilded lobby stuns with its marble-topped tables, plush velvet seating, and a grand ceiling mural depicting Greek mythology. This place is known for excellent accommodation and all the conveniences it offers to its guests. 

Amenities: spa (Balance Spa), fitness center (Balance Health Club), an indoor pool, and delectable food options like award-winning Lockwood Restaurant and a Starbucks 

Address: 19 E Ohio St

Type: 3-star hotel

Freehand Chicago is situated in the vibrant River North neighborhood. The hotel occupies a historic building from 1927, originally called the Devonshire Hotel. During the Prohibition Era, it was a popular hangout spot for Chicago's notorious Mafia elite.

Now, the hotel has been transformed, it has resulted in a stylish and modern interior, featuring exposed brick walls, industrial accents, and pops of color. Freehand Chicagoprioritize a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, however, it lacks extensive in-room amenities and complete tranquility.

Amenities: on-site dining options (Café Integral and the award-winning Broken Shaker bar), a 24-hour fitness center, curated social events and activities, even welcomes well-behaved dogs

Address: 151 E Wacker Dr

Type: 4-star hotel

The Hyatt Regency Chicago is the largest hotel in the city. This high-rise landmark in the heart of Downtown offers stunning city views and easy access to many popular attractions.

The hotel boasts over 2,000 guest rooms spread across two interconnected towers. Despite its size, the Hyatt Regency Chicago hasn't sacrificed on style. The services provided by the hotel are perfect, making it a perfect place for relaxing and unwinding.

Amenities: an on-site spa, fitness center, and indoor pool; extensive meeting spaces and ballrooms; various dining options from cafes to fine dining experiences, including American Craft Kitchen & Bar

Address: 127 W Huron St

Type: 4-star hotel

The Godfrey Hotel Chicago is a stylish boutique hotel perfect for travelers seeking a sophisticated and social experience. The place here has a blend of modern luxury and urban charm, guest rooms are designed with plush furnishings, luxurious linens, and spa-inspired bathrooms.

The Godfrey boasts an impressive rooftop terrace that seamlessly transitions from indoor to outdoor space. This trendy spot is a popular destination in itself, offering stunning city views, innovative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.

Amenities: modern rooms, a spa, a rooftop terrace with city views, and in-lobby entertainment like live music or DJs, an award-winning restaurant with seasonal cuisine, a grab-and-go market for casual fare

Address: 163 E Walton Pl

Type: 4-star hotel

The Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago is another historic landmark steeped in Chicago's rich past. This place offers both, classic elegance and modern amenities. The hotel has a grand lobby featuring intricate moldings and opulent chandeliers. Rooms are stylishly appointed and well-equipped with all the conveniences. 

Amenities: on-site dining options including a restaurant (NiX), and a martini bar, a fitness center, a business center with meeting facilities, grand function space, including the iconic Crystal Ballroom

Address: 140 E Walton Pl

Type: 4-star hotel

The Drake is a grand hotel that stands as a Chicago landmark. This grand hotel, built in 1920, has hosted an impressive array of guests, from presidents and celebrities to socialites and business titans. 

The classic ambiance here extends from a grand lobby featuring ornate chandeliers, rich mahogany paneling, and plush seating areas to the guest rooms, which are decorated with luxurious fabrics and offer a sense of refined comfort.

Amenities: various dining options including afternoon tea at Palm Court, French cuisine at Coq d'Or, and casual bites at Cafe on Oak (with live weekend entertainment), a prime location on the Magnificent Mile with easy access to shopping

Address: 85 E Wacker Dr

Type: 4-star hotel

LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton, was originally built in 1923 as the London Guarantee & Accident headquarters. Today, the hotel cleverly integrates the historic building with a modern 22-story glass tower, offering contrasting yet complementary aesthetics.

The hotel's crown jewel is arguably its tri-level rooftop bar, from where breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the river can be observed.

Amenities: a tranquil spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, multiple on-site restaurants (upscale American fare, rooftop bar, grab-and-go option), and of course, the iconic tri-level LH Rooftop bar with stunning city views

Address: 520 S Michigan Ave

Type: 3-star hotel

The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center was established in 1927. It was originally built as the Auditorium Annex to accommodate visitors for the World's Columbian Exposition. The Congress Plaza has seen its fair share of famous guests, from presidents and world leaders to international celebrities

Amenities: offers basic amenities for a comfortable stay; in-room amenities like a mini-fridge and coffee maker, on-site facilities like a basic fitness center or business center 

Address: 505 N Michigan Ave

Type: 4-star hotel

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, an IHG Hotel is perfect for a luxurious stay right in the heart of Chicago's iconic Magnificent Mile. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1929, the hotel holds timeless elegance.

The hotel offers a polished lobby, guest rooms outfitted with the latest comforts and a variety of services and amenities to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay, making it one of the best places to stay in Downtown, Chicago.

Amenities: multi-floor, state-of-the-art fitness center, a relaxing spa offering pampering treatments, a refreshing historic indoor pool (rare in downtown Chicago), on-site restaurants for various dining desires (from fine-dining to casual)

Address: 2121 S Prairie Ave

Type: 4-star hotel

Towering over the Chicago River, the Marriott Marquis Chicago is a beacon of hospitality in the Windy City. This mammoth hotel boasts over 1,200 rooms, making it one of the largest in the city.

Despite its size, the Marriott Marquis offers a variety of amenities and services to cater to a diverse range of guests. For leisure guests, the hotel offers multiple dining options, spa and indoor pool and extensive meeting facilities, including a grand ballroom for business travelers.

Amenities: extensive meeting facilities (including a grand ballroom), a well-equipped business center, a relaxing spa, a refreshing indoor pool, diverse on-site dining (from casual cafes to upscale steakhouses)

Address: 455 N Park Dr

Type: 4-star hotel

Loews Chicago Hotel is known for its largest outdoor terrace in the city on its rooftop, Streeterville Social. This unique feature is perfect for guests who want to enjoy the stunning city views and a vibrant atmosphere, a perfect place for socializing or enjoying a leisurely drink.

The hotel's design is also noteworthy as it incorporates influences from both classic and modern Chicago architecture, making it a visually interesting space. The hand-drawn transit map murals in some bathrooms add a touch of whimsy and local flair.

Amenities: luxurious rooms with smart TVs, high-end finishes, and spa-inspired bathrooms; award-winning on-site dining including STATE Street Kitchen (contemporary American cuisine) and Bank & Mindy's (fine dining)

Address: 330 N Wabash Ave

Type: 5-star hotel

The Langham, Chicago is a haven of luxury. The Langham boasts 316 luxurious guest rooms, each boasting stunning views of the iconic Chicago cityscape or the calming Chicago River.

The grand lobby with stunning chandeliers is perfect for setting the tone for an elegant and sophisticated experience since your entry here, and the guest rooms exude luxury with details like high-quality fabrics, spa-inspired bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Amenities: world-class dining including Travelle (seasonal American cuisine) and afternoon tea at the Pavilion; a Chuan Spa with treatments inspired by traditional Chinese medicine; a well-equipped fitness center; and unique experiences like private tours arranged by the concierge team

Address: 540 Michigan Ave

Type: 4-star hotel

Another captivating Marriott property in Chicago's vibrant downtown scene, The Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile offers a polished and convenient stay. The prime location is what makes it one of the best places to stay. 

Here, guests can expect a stylish yet welcoming atmosphere, the modern design of the building with floor-to-ceiling windows and artistic nods to Chicago's architecture contributes to a unique character. Standard rooms of this hotel are designed to provide comfort and great views, while suite upgrades provide additional space and even in-room entertainment options. 

Amenities: modern furnishings, stunning views (of the city or Magnificent Mile), and upgrade options to suites with wet bars or pool tables, a farm-to-table restaurant, a Starbucks for coffee lovers, a rooftop garden for relaxation, and well-equipped meeting spaces for business travelers

Address: 323 E Wacker Dr

Type: 4-star hotel

Standing out with a distinctive all-glass facade, Swissotel Chicago offers a luxurious stay high above the Windy City. This 4-diamond hotel boasts breathtaking panoramic views from Navy Pier to Millennium Park, making it a haven for guests seeking stunning cityscapes.

The European-style service known for its efficiency and attention to detail is what sets this place aside from others. Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the space in natural light, while subtle nods to Swiss heritage can be found throughout the décor.

Amenities: spacious rooms with plush bedding, modern furnishings, and stunning city views, on-site dining options including The Palm (award-winning steakhouse) and the Lobby Lounge (for lighter fare and cocktails)

Address: 720 S Michigan Ave

Type: 4-star hotel

The Hilton Chicago is a convenient and reliable option for travelers seeking a comfortable stay in the heart of downtown Chicago. While it might not be the most unique hotel on this list, it excels in providing a familiar and dependable experience for various travelers.

As you enter the spacious lobby, you will be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. While it might not be the most cutting-edge property, it offers all the essential amenities you need for a relaxing stay.

Amenities: spacious rooms with plush bedding, modern amenities like TVs and Wi-Fi, On-site dining ranges from casual options to sit-down meals, Starbucks, indoor pool, a well-equipped gym

Address: 201 N State St

Type: 4-star hotel

theWit Chicago, a Hilton Hotel goes beyond the average Hilton experience. This hip and stylish hotel in the heart of Chicago's theater district pulsates with a contemporary vibe. 

Unlike the classic comfort feel of most Hiltons, theWit embraces a trendy, modern, and energetic vibe. The sleek lobby here has live music or DJs compared to a more traditional hotel entrance. It stands apart from a typical business traveler hotel but rather attracts guests looking for a boutique experience within the Hilton brand.

Amenities: a state-of-the-art fitness center, a delectable on-site restaurant (State and Lake), and award-winning rooftop magic, an award-winning rooftop bar with city views, connecting rooms, a relaxing spa, concierge services

Address: 108 E Superior St

Type: 5-star hotel

The Peninsula Chicago epitomizes luxury and elegance in the heart of the Windy City. owering over Michigan Avenue, this 5-star haven offers unparalleled service, exquisite amenities, and breathtaking views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.

The grand lobby with soaring ceilings, rich marble finishes, and cascading crystal chandeliers can make anyone awestruck. The luxurious guest rooms have expansive layouts, and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing breathtaking North, East, and South views of the city skyline.

Amenities: world-class Cantonese cuisine at Shanghai Terrace, afternoon tea at The Lobby, and outdoor dining with city views at The Terrace; a tranquil spa with personalized treatments; exceptional service with an attentive staff

Address: 120 E Delaware Pl

Type: 5-star hotel

With Lake Michigan vistas and award-winning hospitality, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is one of the best hotels in Downtown for a luxurious escape. Many rooms in the hotel have stunning city or lake views.

Not only does the hotel cater to adults, but it also goes the extra mile for families with children. Ice cream man in-room delivery, access to tickets for Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum and other various children's welcome amenities are offered by the hotel.

Amenities: a tranquility-inducing spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center open 24/7 for the night owls, and on-site dining options ranging from upscale American cuisine at Allium to a more casual Parisian vibe at Café Fifty/Fifty

Address: 410 N Dearborn St

Type: 3-star hotel

The Residence Inn Chicago Downtown/River North provides apartment-style living, perfect for extended stays or those who want more space and the ability to cook meals with a fully-equipped kitchen. Overall, this all-suite hotel caters to travelers who appreciate flexibility and a sense of home away from home.

Amenities: spacious suites featuring fully-equipped kitchens, a complimentary full American breakfast buffet to start your day, a 24-hour fitness center for burning off energy, a business center for staying connected, and even a pet-friendly policy, unbeatable location in River North 

Address: 1 S Franklin St

Type: 3-star hotel

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chicago Downtown offers a budget-friendly option for exploring the Windy City. This no-frills hotel prioritizes essential amenities and a convenient location, making it a good choice for those seeking a simple place to rest their heads after a day of adventure.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chicago Downtown's true strength lies in its location. Situated in the heart of downtown Chicago, you're within easy reach of popular attractions like Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, and the Willis Tower.

Amenities:  a flat-screen TV, mini-fridge (some rooms have microwaves too!), free Wi-Fi, complimentary Bright Side Breakfast® (cereals, pastries, juices, and coffee included), vending machines, small market