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Our top choices for Chicago cheap hotels

Front of property

Grand House

Grand House
2.0 star property
West Town
7.8 out of 10, Good, (28 reviews)
"Comfy beds extremely friendly and accommodating staff and so affordable! "
United States
Haley
The price is £59
includes taxes & fees
13 Apr - 14 Apr
Grand House
Lobby

Aloft Chicago Mag Mile

Aloft Chicago Mag Mile
3.0 star property
Downtown Chicago
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (3,167 reviews)
"Nice location and good hotel"
United States
Taneshia
The price is £112
includes taxes & fees
26 Apr - 27 Apr
Aloft Chicago Mag Mile
Shared kitchen

FOUND Hotel Chicago River North

FOUND Hotel Chicago River North
2.0 star property
Downtown Chicago
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (543 reviews)
"Love this place. Kind of like a college dorm with community kitchen. Will stay there again. "
United States
William
The price is £66
includes taxes & fees
13 Apr - 14 Apr
FOUND Hotel Chicago River North
Lobby

The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast

The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast
4.0 star property
Downtown Chicago
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,359 reviews)
"Very beautiful place to stay"
United States
angie
The price is £99
includes taxes & fees
26 Apr - 27 Apr
The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast
Lobby

Congress Plaza Hotel

Congress Plaza Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Chicago
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (10,083 reviews)
"The stay is well worth the affordable price."
United States
Thomas
The price is £108
includes taxes & fees
26 Apr - 27 Apr
Congress Plaza Hotel
Exterior

Eaglewood Resort and Spa

Eaglewood Resort and Spa
4.0 star property
Itasca
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,025 reviews)
"Great resort and even better staff."
United States
Carlos
The price is £107
includes taxes & fees
28 Apr - 29 Apr
Eaglewood Resort and Spa
Lobby

River Hotel

River Hotel
4.0 star property
Downtown Chicago
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (5,076 reviews)
"very beautiful hotel and great location "
United States
Ciandra
The price is £103
includes taxes & fees
26 Apr - 27 Apr
River Hotel
Exterior

Claridge House Chicago, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Claridge House Chicago, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
Downtown Chicago
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,514 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
Anthony
The price is £100
includes taxes & fees
27 Apr - 28 Apr
Claridge House Chicago, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Cocktail bar

Freehand Chicago

Freehand Chicago
4.0 star property
Downtown Chicago
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (2,860 reviews)
"Was nice! "
Canada
Emilie
The price is £81
includes taxes & fees
14 Apr - 15 Apr
Freehand Chicago
Lobby sitting area

Hotel Saint Clair- Magnificent Mile

Hotel Saint Clair- Magnificent Mile
4.0 star property
Downtown Chicago
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,881 reviews)
"Great location and a very high class hotel."
United States
Cornelius
The price is £76
includes taxes & fees
13 Apr - 14 Apr
Hotel Saint Clair- Magnificent Mile
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Chicago

Discover cheap things to do in Chicago (and vicinity)

For budget-conscious travellers, the greater Chicago area offers an array of free and affordable activities that won’t break the bank. Start with a visit to Millennium Park, where families can enjoy the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as "The Bean," and splash around in the Crown Fountain during the warmer months. It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic, with views of the stunning skyline. For a unique experience, explore the Chicago Riverwalk, which features charming eateries and picturesque views, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Art lovers can immerse themselves in the city’s culture by visiting the Art Institute of Chicago on free admission days, where they can admire world-renowned masterpieces. The Lincoln Park Zoo offers free entry and is a great day out for families, with beautiful gardens and a variety of animals to see. When it comes to food, don’t miss the chance to sample Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza at local gems like Pequod's or Labriola, both known for their delicious offerings at reasonable prices. Staying in the Lincoln Park area will allow you to enjoy a vibrant neighbourhood filled with parks, local shops, and family-friendly attractions, all while offering a selection of affordable hotels. Here, you can unwind after a day of exploration, with easy access to public transport for venturing into the heart of the city.

Find the best cheap hotels in Chicago (and vicinity)

For travellers seeking affordable yet comfortable stays in Chicago, these hotels provide great amenities without breaking the bank. Each option ensures a pleasant experience while keeping costs low.

Hampton Inn Chicago-O'Hare International Airport

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Hampton Inn Chicago-O'Hare International Airport is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers, an impressive review rating of 9.2. Guests appreciate the convenience of a 24-hour airport shuttle and complimentary breakfast, making it easy to start the day right without any extra costs. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity throughout your stay.
  • Other amenities: This hotel features an indoor pool for relaxation and fitness facilities for those looking to stay active. Self-parking is available at no extra charge, and the hotel provides free toiletries for added convenience. Guests can also enjoy daily housekeeping and a snack bar, making it a comfortable base for exploring the city.
  • Neighborhood: O'Hare
  • Nearby attractions: Rosemont Theatre - 4.5 km, Impact Field - 3.8 km, The Dome at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex - 4.1 km

avid hotel Chicago O’Hare – Des Plaines by IHG

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The avid hotel Chicago O’Hare – Des Plaines is a fantastic budget option, with a stellar review rating of 9.2. This hotel offers complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, making it an ideal choice for cost-conscious travellers. Additionally, the self-parking option at no extra charge adds to the convenience of the stay.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy an indoor pool and 24-hour fitness facilities to keep up with their exercise routines. The hotel also features a grocery and convenience store, ensuring guests have easy access to snacks and essentials during their stay.
  • Neighborhood: O'Hare
  • Nearby attractions: Allstate Arena - 1.2 km, Wolff's Flea Market - 1.5 km, Lake Park - 1.4 km

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For travellers looking for budget-friendly options in the heart of the city, the Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile stands out with a review rating of 8.4. Guests will appreciate free toiletries and Wi-Fi, along with the convenience of a kitchenette in select rooms, making it easy to prepare meals on a budget.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features an indoor pool for relaxation and accessible fitness facilities for maintaining an active lifestyle. Guests can also enjoy nearby shopping opportunities and have access to a 24-hour parking facility, ensuring a straightforward experience during their stay.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Chicago
  • Nearby attractions: Michigan Avenue - 0.6 km, State Street - 0 km

How to get cheap hotels in Chicago?

 

✅ The length of stay in Chicago often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Chicago's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Chicago in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Chicago, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Chicago on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Chicago.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Chicago, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Chicago. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £59*.

✅  Chicago offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Chicago on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Chicago is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Chicago Hotel Reviews

River Hotel

River Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Very convenient location, kind staff, and comfy rooms. "
Molly Christina 3-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
River Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Chicago as a budget traveller?
For budget-conscious travellers exploring Chicago, excellent options include the Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC, Hampton Inn Chicago North-Loyola Station, and Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC, with an impressive 9.6 rating, offers exceptional value with complimentary breakfast, including a full breakfast, and free WiFi. Guests consistently praise the friendly and amazing staff, the clean rooms, and the comfortable beds.

Another fantastic choice is the 3-star Hampton Inn Chicago North-Loyola Station, rated 9.4. This hotel provides free breakfast, including a full buffet breakfast, and free WiFi. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and the delicious breakfast. Its location near Loyola Station offers convenient access to public transport.
How much does a budget hotel in Chicago cost?
Budget hotel prices in Chicago vary, but you can find a great deal from £59 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Chicago is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious travellers seeking cheap hotels in Chicago, neighbourhoods like Lincoln Park and River North offer a blend of affordability, accessibility, and attractions. These areas provide good public transport links to the city centre and boast a range of accommodation options that won't break the bank.

Lincoln Park, situated north of downtown, is a vibrant and pleasant area known for its green spaces and cultural institutions, many of which are free. Solo travellers can find numerous hostels and guesthouses here, often with shared facilities that keep costs down. The Lincoln Park Zoo, for instance, offers a fantastic free day out, and the neighbourhood's proximity to the lakefront path provides opportunities for inexpensive recreation. Public transport is readily available, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.

River North, just north of the Chicago River, is another excellent option, particularly for couples. While it can be a bit pricier than Lincoln Park, it offers a wider selection of budget-friendly hotels, especially if you book in advance or look for deals. It's a lively district with numerous dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, suiting various budgets. Couples will appreciate the area's central location, allowing for easy walking access to the Magnificent Mile and its shops, as well as several art galleries that often have free admission.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Chicago?
For top-rated, budget-friendly hotels in Chicago suitable for families, excellent choices include Staybridge Suites Chicago - Glenview by IHG, Hilton Garden Inn Chicago O'Hare Airport, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Chicago-Deerfield/Lincolnshire by IHG, Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall, and Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-North Shore/Skokie.

The 3-star Staybridge Suites Chicago - Glenview by IHG, with a fantastic 8.8 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms, which are ideal for families. Guests consistently praise the free breakfast, including a buffet, and the friendly, great service from the staff. They also provide free wired and wireless internet, and a complimentary cot upon request. A 24-hour airport shuttle and free self-parking add to its convenience.

The 3-star Hilton Garden Inn Chicago O'Hare Airport, rated 9.0, is highly regarded for its friendly and helpful staff, as well as its comfortable and clean rooms with comfy beds. They offer a delicious breakfast, free wired internet in public areas, and complimentary toiletries. The free 24-hour airport shuttle and free train station pickup and drop-off are particularly beneficial for families travelling by air or rail.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Chicago-Deerfield/Lincolnshire by IHG, with an 8.8 rating, is known for its excellent and friendly staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and fresh, good breakfast. Families will appreciate the free buffet breakfast, free self-parking, and complimentary cot. They also provide a free area shuttle and free train station pickup.

The 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall, rated 8.8, consistently receives praise for its excellent and clean rooms, as well as its helpful and amazing staff and service. Complimentary amenities include free WiFi, free wired internet in public areas, free self-parking, and free toiletries, along with a free cot for younger guests.

Finally, the 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-North Shore/Skokie, with an impressive 9.2 rating, is a superb choice. Families love the spacious and clean rooms, comfortable beds, and the great, friendly staff.
What cheap hotels in Chicago offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Chicago that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent choices, including Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC, Hampton Inn Chicago North-Loyola Station, and Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC has an impressive 9.6 review rating. Guests consistently praise the free and great breakfast, as well as the friendly and amazing staff. Free toiletries and complimentary WiFi are also provided, and parking is free and convenient.

The 3-star Hampton Inn Chicago North-Loyola Station, rated 9.4, offers a free full buffet breakfast that guests describe as delicious. The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, and the rooms are comfortable and clean. Free WiFi and complimentary cribs are also available.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park, which also has a 9.4 rating. This hotel provides a free buffet breakfast, with guests often commenting on how great it is. The rooms are spacious and clean, and the staff are friendly and helpful.
When is the most affordable time to visit Chicago?
The most affordable time to visit Chicago is generally during the colder months, specifically from January to March, and then again in late autumn, from late October through December. During these periods, demand for travel is lower, leading to significant savings on flights and accommodation.

For solo travellers, visiting in late January or February can offer the best deals. While the weather is chilly, the city still hums with activity, and you'll find plenty of indoor attractions, such as world-class museums and vibrant theatres, often with fewer crowds. Many hotels offer off-season rates, and you might even snag a bargain on a flight.

Families looking to save money might consider late October. The autumn foliage is beautiful, and while the weather is cooler, it's often still pleasant enough for outdoor exploration. You can enjoy free activities like strolling through Lincoln Park or Millennium Park without the peak season crowds, and many family-friendly museums have special programmes during quieter times.
What are the best cheap hotels in Chicago with a pool?
For excellent value hotels in Chicago that feature a pool, consider the Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC, the Hampton Inn & Suites Rosemont Chicago O'Hare, and the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Wilmette/Skokie.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC has an impressive 9.6 rating, and guests frequently praise its clean rooms and comfortable beds. It offers a fantastic selection of free amenities including breakfast, toiletries, and WiFi, along with a convenient indoor pool for relaxation.

Another great option is the Hampton Inn & Suites Rosemont Chicago O'Hare, rated 9.4. This hotel provides spacious, clean rooms and a good indoor pool. Travellers benefit from free breakfast, including continental options, and a complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle, making arrivals and departures stress-free.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Wilmette/Skokie, with a 9.4 rating, is another highly-rated choice. Guests often praise the delicious breakfast and excellent staff.
Which cheap Chicago hotels are near Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
For budget-friendly hotels near Chicago Midway International Airport, excellent options include Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Chicago-Midway Airport by IHG, Hampton Inn by Hilton Chicago-Midway Airport, Hilton Garden Inn Chicago/Midway Airport, Hyatt Place Chicago Midway Airport, and Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Midway Airport.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Chicago-Midway Airport by IHG, rated 9.0, offers complimentary breakfast daily, including a buffet, and free WiFi. Guests frequently praise the clean rooms, comfortable beds, and plentiful hot water in the shower. A 24-hour free airport shuttle service is also available, making arrivals and departures straightforward.

The Hampton Inn by Hilton Chicago-Midway Airport, with an 8.4 rating, provides a free continental breakfast and free WiFi. The hotel also features a complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle. Reviewers often highlight the helpful staff and clean, quiet rooms, making it a convenient choice just one mile from the airport.

The 3-star Hilton Garden Inn Chicago/Midway Airport, rated 8.4, offers free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle service. Guests appreciate the clean and quiet rooms and the helpful staff. This hotel is also conveniently located just one mile from the airport.

The 3-star Hyatt Place Chicago Midway Airport, with an impressive 9.0 rating, provides free WiFi and a 24-hour airport shuttle service. This hotel stands out with free self-parking and guests often comment on the spacious, clean rooms and the excellent complimentary breakfast.

The 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Midway Airport, rated 8.0, features an indoor pool, free WiFi, and a 24-hour airport shuttle.
Is Chicago a budget-friendly destination?
While Chicago is generally considered a more expensive American city, travellers can absolutely experience its vibrant culture and attractions on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying in areas slightly outside the immediate city centre, such as Lincoln Park or Wicker Park. These neighbourhoods offer more affordable hotels and guesthouses and are well-connected to downtown via the 'L' train. Solo travellers might also find excellent value in hostels located near public transport hubs.

Couples can save on dining by exploring the city's diverse and delicious street food scene or by taking advantage of lunch specials at local eateries. Many of Chicago's premier attractions are free to enjoy, such as strolling through Millennium Park to see "The Bean," walking along the scenic Lakefront Trail, or exploring the historic architecture of the Loop. The Chicago Cultural Centre also hosts numerous free events and exhibitions.
What cheap hotels in Chicago offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Chicago that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have several excellent options, including Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Wilmette/Skokie, Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown, and Carleton of Oak Park.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Wilmette/Skokie, with a fantastic 9.4 rating, provides rooms with full kitchens. Guests consistently praise its delicious free breakfast and excellent staff. Free WiFi and complimentary self-parking add to its great value.

Another superb choice is the 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown, rated 9.2. This hotel offers rooms with kitchenettes, making it convenient for preparing light meals. Reviewers often highlight the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the friendly and helpful staff. A free buffet breakfast is also included.

The 3-star Carleton of Oak Park, boasting a 9.2 rating, features rooms with kitchenettes. Its convenient location and free self-parking are frequently mentioned by satisfied guests. The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, and the rooms are described as spacious and clean.

You might also consider the 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-North Shore/Skokie, rated 9.2, which provides kitchenettes in its rooms, along with a complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi.

Finally, the 3-star Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago West Loop Fulton Mkt Area, with a 9.2 rating, offers rooms with kitchens.
Which cheap hotels in Chicago have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Chicago with excellent customer service, travellers frequently recommend Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC, Hampton Inn Chicago North-Loyola Station, and Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park.

Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC has an impressive 9.6 rating, and guests consistently praise its friendly and amazing staff. They also offer complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, adding to the overall value.

The 3-star Hampton Inn Chicago North-Loyola Station, with a 9.4 rating, is another fantastic option. Reviewers often highlight the great and wonderful service, and the helpful and friendly staff. This hotel also provides free full breakfast, free toiletries, and free Wi-Fi.

For those looking for a comfortable stay with superb service, the 3-star Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park, rated 9.4, is a strong contender. Guests frequently praise the great customer service and the friendly, helpful staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in Chicago that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Chicago are excellent for accommodating non-standard arrival or departure times.

The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Chicago-Midway Airport by IHG, with a fantastic 9.0 rating, offers a 24-hour airport shuttle, making early arrivals or late departures much smoother. Guests consistently praise the helpful and great staff, and the free breakfast is also a welcome amenity.

The 3-star Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Chicago O'Hare South, IL, rated 7.2, also provides a 24-hour airport shuttle. Reviewers often highlight the excellent and helpful staff, along with the great breakfast, as key benefits.

Another option is the Best Western Plus O'Hare International South Hotel, which has a 7.4 rating and offers a free 24-hour airport shuttle. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms.

For those looking for flexibility, the Best Western Oakbrook Inn, with a 7.6 rating, also indicates options for early check-in and late check-out. This hotel provides free breakfast and free parking, and reviews often mention the friendly and helpful front desk staff.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Chicago with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Chicago. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Chicago?
Chicago offers a wealth of fantastic free activities, making it an excellent destination for budget-conscious travellers. You can easily fill your itinerary with enriching experiences without spending a penny.

For solo travellers, exploring Millennium Park is a must. You can admire the iconic "Cloud Gate" sculpture, affectionately known as "The Bean," and reflect your surroundings. The park also features the Crown Fountain, an interactive art piece that's particularly engaging in warmer months, and the serene Lurie Garden. Just a short walk away, Grant Park, often called "Chicago's Front Yard," boasts beautiful green spaces and impressive statues.

Families will find plenty to enjoy at Lincoln Park. This expansive park is home to the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the US, offering free admission to see a diverse range of animals. There are also numerous playgrounds, open fields for picnicking, and scenic walking paths along the lakefront. The Lincoln Park Conservatory, a beautiful Victorian-era glass house, provides a tropical escape and is also free to enter.

Both solo travellers and families can take advantage of the Chicago Lakefront Trail. This 18-mile path stretches along the city's eastern edge, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and the skyline. It's great for a leisurely stroll, a run, or a bike ride (if you bring your own or rent one).
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Chicago as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Chicago for you.

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