TOP Cheap Hotels in Evanston, IL for 2026

A historic building with a lighthouse, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

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Our top choices for Evanston cheap hotels

Premium bedding, pillow-top beds, in-room safe, desk

1. Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG

Downtown Evanston

Ryan

£108

includes taxes & fees

5 Oct - 6 Oct

One King Bed Junior Suite | Premium bedding, pillow-top beds, in-room safe, desk

2. Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston

Downtown Evanston

RICHARD

£131

includes taxes & fees

28 Sept - 29 Sept

3. Graduate by Hilton Evanston

Downtown Evanston

Paul

£138

includes taxes & fees

5 Oct - 6 Oct

4 restaurants; breakfast, lunch and dinner served

Presidential Suite, 1 King Bed | Living area | 50-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, TV

4. Hilton Orrington / Evanston

Downtown Evanston

Tara

£151

includes taxes & fees

9 Sept - 10 Sept

5. Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston

Downtown Evanston

Jacob Dylan

£172

includes taxes & fees

28 Sept - 29 Sept

Deluxe Suite, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen (Two Beds, Washer/Dryer) | Living area | 45-inch LED TV with cable channels

6. The Gem Museum Suites

Downtown Evanston

Archita

£159

includes taxes & fees

28 Sept - 29 Sept

Premium Room, 2 Queen Beds (Airport View) | Down duvets, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace

7. Holiday Inn Chicago O'Hare – Rosemont by IHG

Rosemont

Daniel

£127

includes taxes & fees

9 Sept - 10 Sept

8. Carleton of Oak Park

Oak Park

Alan

£76

includes taxes & fees

5 Oct - 6 Oct

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Find out more about Evanston

Discover cheap things to do in Evanston

Evanston, Illinois, offers a range of intriguing experiences for budget-conscious travellers, making it easy to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Start your adventure at the picturesque Lighthouse Beach, where you can stroll along the sandy shores or enjoy a picnic with stunning views of Lake Michigan—all for free! For those interested in culture, the Block Museum of Art at Northwestern University provides free admission to its rotating exhibitions, showcasing contemporary and historical art. If you’re travelling with children, a visit to the Evanston History Center is a must; it's located in the charming Dawes House and often has low-cost family activities. Don't miss the vibrant local dining scene; grab a slice at the popular and budget-friendly Pequod's Pizza, famous for its deep-dish style. For a delightful afternoon, explore the shops and cafes along Chicago Avenue, with many offering affordable treats and souvenirs. Staying in the downtown area allows you easy access to these attractions, with several well-rated budget hotels nearby, ensuring you can enjoy a comfortable stay while being right in the heart of the action. With plenty of affordable options and a welcoming atmosphere, Evanston is perfect for families and travellers seeking quality experiences at a good value.

Find the best cheap hotels in Evanston

For travellers seeking budget-friendly accommodation in Evanston, these top hotels offer comfort and convenience without breaking the bank.Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG

Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers, offering a comfortable stay with an excellent review rating of 8.4. Guests appreciate amenities such as complimentary WiFi and daily housekeeping, ensuring a straightforward experience during their visit to downtown Evanston.
Other amenities: This hotel features a fitness centre that is accessible for all guests, a microwave for easy meal prep, and premium bedding for a restful night's sleep. Additional conveniences include self-parking, a gift shop or newsstand, and child-friendly window designs, making it a welcoming option for all types of visitors.
Neighborhood: Downtown Evanston
Nearby attractions: Lake Michigan - 1.6 km, Northwestern University - 2.1 km, Grosse Point Lighthouse - 2.4 km

How to get cheap hotels in Evanston?

✅ The length of stay in Evanston 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 Evanston's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅ If you're looking for cheap hotels in Evanston 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 Evanston, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅ To find affordable hotels in Evanston 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 Evanston.

✅ 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 Evanston, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Evanston. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £76*.

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

✅ One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Evanston 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 Evanston Hotel Reviews

L7 Chicago by LOTTE

10/10 Excellent

"Overall a great experience and great staff. Only person in front desk I do have to address is the women with the pink high lights. Not so friendly other than that great staff I will for sure return."

Hyatt Regency Chicago

10/10 Excellent

"10/10 would recommend this hotel. Great customer service and was in a very convenient location"

Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop, Chicago

10/10 Excellent

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Hilton Chicago

10/10 Excellent

"great location"

The Chicago Hotel Collection Ambassador Gold Coast

10/10 Excellent

"We didn’t use the pool, but the hotel lounge and breakfast were nice. Parking was close $40 for a valet lot a block and half away. The staff was very nice and the room was clean and really comfortable."

Fairmont Chicago at Millennium Park

8/10 Good

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Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport

10/10 Excellent

"Excellent airport location. Very convenient access to all terminals, including the farthest T5. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. Restaurant couls use less AC - it was very cold my likeness."

Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile - Medical

10/10 Excellent

"We had a nice stay"

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Evanston as a budget traveler?

For budget-conscious travellers visiting Evanston, the Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG is a great option.The 3-star Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG, with an 8.4 rating, offers comfortable and clean rooms, along with complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff and the hotel's convenient location.

How much does a budget hotel in Evanston cost?

Budget hotel prices in Evanston vary, but you can find a great deal from £76 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 Evanston is best to stay in for cheap hotels?

For solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Evanston, the areas around the Main Street and Dempster Street "L" train stops offer some of the most budget-friendly accommodation options. These locations provide easy access to public transport, connecting you efficiently to various parts of Evanston and Chicago.Solo travellers will find that these neighbourhoods often feature independent hotels and guesthouses that may offer lower rates than those closer to the university campus or downtown Evanston. The proximity to the "L" train means you can easily explore Evanston's attractions, like the beautiful lakefront, without incurring taxi fares.

What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Evanston?

For families seeking top-rated, affordable accommodation in Evanston, the Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG stands out as a highly-regarded option.This 3-star hotel, with an impressive 8.4 rating, is frequently praised by guests for its comfortable and clean rooms, ensuring a pleasant stay for the whole family. Travellers often highlight the friendly and helpful staff, who contribute to a friendly setting. Its great location is also a consistent positive, making it convenient for exploring the area. Furthermore, guests appreciate the nice breakfast options and the great, easy parking facilities, which are practical amenities for families travelling with children and luggage.

When is the most affordable time to visit Evanston?

The most affordable time to visit Evanston, Illinois, is generally during the colder months, specifically from late autumn through early spring, outside of university breaks. During this period, particularly between November and March (excluding the Christmas and New Year's holidays, and Spring Break), demand for accommodation tends to be lower, leading to more competitive pricing for hotels and other lodging options.Solo travellers will find that hotel rates are often at their lowest during these off-peak times. While the weather might be chilly, many indoor attractions remain open, such as the Block Museum of Art on the university campus, which offers free admission. Additionally, walking along the frozen lakefront can be quite beautiful and offers a different perspective of the area without costing a penny.Families might also appreciate the reduced crowds during these months, making it easier to explore the city's parks and public spaces, even if bundled up. Dining out can also be more economical, as some local restaurants may offer winter specials or fixed-price menus when tourist traffic is lighter.

Is Evanston a budget-friendly destination?

While Evanston is generally considered a more expensive destination, particularly given its proximity to Chicago, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.For accommodation, consider staying slightly outside the immediate downtown area, or explore options for longer stays that might offer better rates. Solo travellers can also look into guesthouses or rooms for rent, which can be more affordable than traditional hotels.Couples can save money on food by exploring the diverse range of casual eateries and cafes, particularly those suiting the student population, which often offer excellent value meals. Picnics in one of Evanston's many beautiful parks along Lake Michigan, such as Dawes Park or Lighthouse Beach, are a delightful and inexpensive way to dine. Many of Evanston's attractions are free, including strolling through the historic campus of Northwestern University, admiring the architecture, or enjoying the scenic lakefront paths.

Which cheap hotels in Evanston have good reviews for customer service?

For affordable hotels in Evanston with great customer service, the Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG is an excellent choice.This 3-star hotel, rated 8.4 by our customers, consistently receives high praise for its service and friendly staff. Guests often highlight the great customer service provided by the front desk staff, making for a pleasant and welcoming stay. The hotel also offers practical amenities such as free WiFi, ensuring you can stay connected during your visit.

What free activities should we do in Evanston?

There's a fantastic array of free activities in Evanston, superb for making the most of your visit without spending a penny.For solo travellers, a stroll along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline is a must. You can enjoy the vast expanse of the lake, walk or cycle along the designated paths, and take in the natural beauty. Exploring the campus of Northwestern University is another excellent free option; its impressive architecture and lovely green spaces are very pleasant for an afternoon wander. You might even catch a free student performance or exhibition.Families will appreciate the many parks Evanston offers. Dawes Park, with its beautiful gardens and lake views, is ideal for a picnic and some outdoor playtime. Lighthouse Beach, while popular for swimming in warmer months, also provides picturesque views and a pleasant area for children to play in the sand without an entry fee.

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 Evanston for you.

How can I save on a budget hotel in Evanston with Expedia?

There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Evanston. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.

Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Evanston as a package?

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. 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. *Savings vary and are not available on all flight and hotel bookings.

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Check availability on Evanston Cheap Hotels

Our top choices for Evanston cheap hotels

1. Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG