Visiting the Windy City and wondering where to stay? I discovered luxury high-rises, chic boutique hotels, and historic inns—each one offering a stylish escape with skyline views, urban charm, and easy access to the Windy City’s vibrant culture. "These places offer everything from skyline views to neighborhood charm, right in the heart of the action."
Highlights:
Unique Hotels
1. For Sports Fans: Hotel Zachary
Rating: ★★★★★
© Hotel Zachary
Location:
Chicago, ILHighlights:
Planning a trip to Wrigleyville? We highly recommend Hotel Zachary—it’s where stylish comfort meets unbeatable location right next to Wrigley Field.Recommended For:
Sports fans, city explorers, boutique hotel lovers, and travelers wanting to stay close to Chicago’s iconic attractions.What I Love: ♥
Baseball-themed suites, live music at the Bar at Hotel Zachary, and views that capture the energy of Wrigleyville.- Stay in rooms and suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, modern furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi—some with balconies and Carrera marble bathrooms.
- Unwind at the Bar at Hotel Zachary with globally inspired cuisine, creative cocktails, and live music on weekends.
- Fuel up with a complimentary continental breakfast before hitting the town or a Cubs game.
- Work out any time of day in the 24-hour fitness center.
- Explore Lake Michigan, Riviera Theatre, and Chicago’s shopping and dining scenes, all within easy reach.
Address:
Hotel Zachary, 3630 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60613Phone: 773-302-2300
2. Chicago Hotel For Budget-Conscious Travelers: FOUND Chicago River North
© FOUND Chicago River North
Location:
Chicago, ILHighlights:
Need a place that’s both stylish and budget-friendly in the heart of Chicago? FOUND Chicago River North delivers flexible, design-forward lodging in a vibrant, walkable neighborhood.Recommended For:
Budget-savvy travelers, solo adventurers, groups of friends, and anyone looking for a blend of privacy and community in downtown Chicago.What I Love: ♥
Unique combo of private and shared rooms, a lively karaoke lounge, and vintage-meets-modern design inside a historic building.- Stay in private rooms with premium beds, in-room safes, and cable TV—or choose shared accommodations for a more affordable option.
- Cook & connect in the communal kitchen or hang out in the 24-hour guest lounge and lobby workspace.
- Fuel up at Mason & Mason coffee bar or enjoy classic Chicago fare at Mason steakhouse.
- Sing & sip at the Blind Dragon lounge, where karaoke and craft cocktails keep the night lively.
- Stay connected with free Wi-Fi and plenty of community-driven social spaces.
Address:
FOUND Chicago River North, 613 N. Wells Street, Chicago, IL 60654Phone: 224-243-6863
3. For Young Creatives: Acme Hotel Company
© Acme Hotel
Location:
Chicago, ILHighlights:
Looking for a bold, tech-savvy stay right in the middle of downtown Chicago? Acme Hotel delivers personality, high-tech comfort, and a touch of edgy fun in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.Recommended For:
Digital nomads, nightlife lovers, stylish travelers, and anyone craving a modern, offbeat boutique hotel experience.What I Love: ♥
Ultra-fast Wi-Fi, The Bunny Slope private hot tub lounge, and sleek rooms designed for tech-minded explorers.- Stay in creatively designed rooms packed with smart features like wireless audio systems, high-end electronics, and ultra-fast Wi-Fi.
- Unwind at The Bunny Slope, a one-of-a-kind private hot tub lounge where you can sip cocktails and soak in the scene.
- Socialize at two hip cocktail bars or enjoy bites at the on-site restaurant before heading out on the town.
- Enjoy an unbeatable location surrounded by Chicago’s top nightlife, dining, and entertainment spots.
- Plug in with all the tech and comforts modern travelers expect—perfect for both work and play.
Address:
Acme Hotel Company, 15 East Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611Phone: 312-894-0800
4. Chicago Hotel For Artsy Urbanites: Freehand Hotel
© Freehand Hotel
Location:
Chicago, ILHighlights:
Want a budget-friendly spot with boutique flair in the middle of downtown Chicago? Freehand Hotel Chicago gives you style, comfort, and a fun community vibe—all just steps from the Magnificent Mile.Recommended For:
Solo travelers, couples, and friend groups looking for a social, affordable, and well-located stay in Chicago.What I Love: ♥
The Broken Shaker’s cocktails, the mix of private and shared rooms, and the communal spaces perfect for meeting fellow travelers.- Stay in private or dorm-style rooms, each with air conditioning, seating areas, and fresh linens and towels included.
- Relax in the shared guest lounge or cook your own meals in the communal kitchen.
- Drink & dine at The Broken Shaker, known for creative breakfast options, small plates, and handcrafted cocktails.
- Store your gear safely with lockers and luggage storage available on-site.
- Explore nearby Chicago icons like Millennium Park, the John Hancock Observatory, and more—just a short walk away.
Address:
Freehand Hotel, 19 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611Phone: 312-940-3699
5. For Tech-Lovers: Hotel EMC2
© Hotel EMC2
Location:
Chicago, ILHighlights:
Want a hotel that’s as stylish and creative as the city itself? Hotel EMC2 blends art, innovation, and upscale comfort just steps from the Magnificent Mile.Recommended For:
Creative travelers, design lovers, business professionals, and anyone seeking a boutique experience with modern luxury in downtown Chicago.What I Love: ♥
Inventive dishes at Albert Tavern, beautifully designed guest rooms with sleek finishes, and a location that’s perfect for exploring the city.- Stay in artistically inspired rooms with hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and high-end details throughout.
- Dine at Albert Tavern, offering seasonal menus, craft cocktails, and a relaxed yet refined vibe.
- Fuel up each morning with a full breakfast buffet or grab-and-go bites before a day of exploring or meetings.
- Work out in the on-site fitness center and take advantage of valet dry-cleaning for business or special occasions.
- Meet or mingle in modern event spaces designed for creativity and connection.
Address:
Hotel EMC2, 228 E Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611Phone: 312-915-0000
6. For Stylish Couples: Viceroy Chicago
© Viceroy Chicago
Location:
Chicago, ILHighlights:
If you're craving a luxurious stay in one of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods, Viceroy Chicago is your stylish Gold Coast escape. It’s where sleek design, top-tier service, and skyline views all come together beautifully.Recommended For:
Luxury travelers, couples, business professionals, and anyone looking for a sophisticated retreat near the Magnificent Mile.What I Love: ♥
The rooftop pool with stunning city views, elegant dining at Somerset, and the glamorous ambiance of Devereaux lounge.- Stay in modern rooms with plush furnishings, coffee machines, minibars, and high-speed Wi-Fi for work or play.
- Dine at Somerset Restaurant for fresh, Midwest-inspired dishes in a stylish brasserie setting.
- Unwind at Devereaux rooftop bar with craft cocktails, tapas plates, and a seasonal pool surrounded by panoramic views.
- Stay fit in the state-of-the-art gym and enjoy 24-hour in-room dining at your convenience.
- Host meetings or events in 3,600 square feet of chic, flexible event space.
Address:
1118 N State St, Chicago, IL 60610Phone: 888-712-2712
7. Kinzie Hotel
© Kinzie Hotel
Location:
Chicago, ILHighlights:
If you're looking for a central base to explore Chicago’s top attractions, Kinzie Hotel is a stylish boutique pick right in the middle of the action. Culture, shopping, and riverside strolls are all just steps away.Recommended For:
City explorers, couples, pet parents, and business travelers looking for modern comfort with great walkability.What I Love: ♥
Complimentary breakfast and happy hour, in-room dining from Public House, and thoughtful amenities for both pets and professionals.- Stay in sleek rooms with flat-screen TVs, minibars, iPod docks, and spacious layouts made for comfort.
- Wake up to a complimentary breakfast and enjoy in-room dining from Public House Gastropub throughout the day.
- Unwind with drinks and light bites at the nightly reception at Double Cross Lounge.
- Stay active in the 24-hour fitness center or productive in the business center.
- Bring your pet—the Kinzie Hotel offers dog-walking, sitting, and even grooming services.
Address:
Kinzie Hotel, 20 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654Phone: 312-395-9000
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