When visiting Chicago, one is presented with the ever-present dilemma: do you splurge or save on your hotel room? Why not both? The city only has a gajillion hotel options throughout many neighborhoods, so what should you do? For those looking to truly splurge, look no further than our latest 18 Essential Hotels Guide, as several five star options are presented. However, for those looking to save a few bucks, you're in luck as we will explore a few different options for travelers, visitors and staycationers who prefer to stay at a unique neighborhood spot that won't break the bank. Sure, you may not be within walking distance of Millennium Park, Mag Mile or State Street, but you can certainly make the most out of crashing in close-by Lincoln Park, Lakeview or even Logan Square.
One thing that Chicago hotels share with residential and other commercial real estate is that prime locations command premium costs. Plan on staying downtown for your visit? Then plan on spending at least $200 per night. And for those who don't care about hype, amenities or trendy atmosphere, there are plenty of affordable and non-pretentious chain hotels in Lincoln Park and Lakeview that run in the sub-$100/night range. Although many hotels run deals during the winter, and travel sites can offer big discounts on well-stayed spots, as a general rule of thumb, count on spending at least $200 or more per night at a downtown hotel during the summer months (when people actually visit Chicago).
The Chicago hotel boom is making huge splash in River North right now, but the waves are pushing out into the neighborhoods where many North Side hotels are renovating. Take for example the Majestic Hotel, The Willows Hotel and City Suites Chicago, all three have completed major renovations and are located in the North Side neighborhoods of Lakeview and Lincoln Park. Expect to drop around $150 per night on one of these North Side spots.
One of the more exciting "hotel" options in Chicago right now is the ultra-trendy bar and lodge Longman & Eagle located in Northwest Side Logan Square. Just a few years ago, snooty North Siders would not set foot in the quickly gentrifying neighborhood, but now taxi cabs and luxury SUVs are commonly spotted outside of the popular Michelin-stared bar and restaurant on Kedzie Avenue. Rooms at L&E start at $85 per night, and include two whiskey drink tokens and a guaranteed reservation at the restaurant for each night (the popular bar/restaurant is famous for not accept reservations).
· More Hotels Week 2014 coverage [Curbed Chicago]