For the style-seeker who’s after character and cool vibes from their stay but without the price tag, the Freehand is a strong contender thanks to its vibrant decor and well-appointed downtown River North location. From dorms to private rooms and penthouses, each room is styled with Instagrammable art, and guests are offered access to shared kitchen and lounge facilities if so desired. Socializing is actively encouraged as Freehand offers its own tours and activities to help you navigate the city.

River North’s Freehand Chicago boasts a head-to-toe vibe of funky vintage, breezy tropical, and geometric decor. Room options include private, shared, and a penthouse luxury suite. Head to happy hour at the in-house bar the Broken Shake, or walk a few minutes to some of the best steakhouses, cocktail bars, and restaurants in River North. Freehand Chicago’s location in River North, just outside of the Loop, is a short stroll from some of the city’s most popular tourist spots, such as the Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier, where you can jump on the Centennial Wheel and get a bird’s eye view of the city. It’s also home to some of the best places to eat in the city, making it a great area for foodies, and is a cultural hotspot too, with a number of excellent museums and theaters located nearby. Try Three Dots and a Dash for tropical cocktails and Roka Akor if you’re hungry for Wagyu beef. Other amenities include a fitness center and curated tours and activities.

Location: 19 East Ohio Street, River North, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Tel: 312-940-3699

Website: https://freehandhotels.com/chicago/

Price: $38 per night

Google Rating: 4.2 /5

Longman and Eagle ranks 2nd on the list of best cheap hotels in Chicago. Stay in the heart of Logan Square at this much-lauded restaurant’s inn-style guest house. There are only six rooms available, with each varying in size and price. Every room has its own distinct character, and you’ll find eccentric design elements as well as original artwork throughout. This hotel is not for those seeking a quiet or sedate spot necessarily – the downstairs bar is especially noisy – but if you’re looking to be in the thick of the action, you can’t get much better than the Longman & Eagle.

Longman and Eagle is easily the hippest hotel in town, and at only 6 rooms strong, it’s also the tiniest. But what it lacks in size and fancy amenities (there’s no concierge or room service) it totally makes up for in fun and food. For one thing, the open-plan rooms are exceptionally designed (terrariums, freestanding tubs, custom furniture handmade by the owners) with hilarious little details like vintage Fisher Price tape decks and PBR in the mini-fridge. The guesthouse sits directly on top of its namesake Michelin star restaurant, which means that wild boar sloppy joes and over 150 varieties of whiskey are literally stepped away. Understandably evenings tend to get rowdy, so keep that in mind when booking.

Location: 2657 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA

Tel: 773-276-7110

Website: https://www.longmanandeagle.com/sleep

Price: $95 per night

Google Rating: 4.7/5

Hotel Versey is one of the best cheap hotels in Chicago. Bridging the gap between budget and boutique, Hotel Versey is a slick and wallet-friendly place to stay. Chicago-oriented art lines the walls, adding a personable feel to the shared spaces. Having opened up a street-front bar in 2017, residents can now chill out here, but the reception space is also cool enough to easily settle in with a book or your laptop for a few hours. Staying here puts you at the junction of several must-visit spots – Wrigley Park, Lincoln Park Zoo and Lake Michigan are all just one mile away.

Hotel Versey's storied 1920s building on the corners of Clarke, Broadway, and Diversey has been welcoming guests, celebs, and rockers for nearly a century. From jazz greats like Bix Biederbecke and Louis Armstrong to the biggest names in rock-like Kurt Cobain, Sheryl Crow, and Dave Matthews, many cool people have stayed under our roof. Of course, we welcome less-famous guests, too, like business travelers and vacationers looking to explore the city's shopping, dining, sports, and music. Check out what past guests think about the most unique and storied hotel in Chicago. You might even recognize a few names.

Location: 644 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

Tel: 773-525-7010

Website: https://www.hotelversey.com/

Price: $135 per night

Google Rating: 4.1/5

One of the best cheap hotels in Chicago is The Willows Hotel. Housed in a charming historic Lakeview building, this boutique hotel is simple yet elegant. The lobby’s funky animal portraits and cowhide chairs make a bold impression, but it’s the prime location that seals the deal. Just steps from Lincoln Park, guests have easy access to the Lincoln Park Zoo, miles of footpaths, and countless quaint picnic spots. The surrounding blocks are flanked by bars, restaurants, and local shops, and if you want to venture out of the neighborhood, the Diversey Brown Line station is less than a half-mile away by foot.

With free daily breakfast, complimentary afternoon cookies, and 24-hour front desk assistance, this quaint, 55-room hotel near the busy intersection of Clark and Diversey has an old-fashioned French country feel. Fans of minor hotel curiosities will enjoy riding in the original 1920s Otis elevator, creaks, and all. This property is 9 minute walk from the beach. The Willows Hotel is nestled on a tree-lined street in Chicago's prestigious Lakeview and Lincoln Park neighborhoods. Free WiFi, 24-hour coffee & tea service, and cozy guest rooms featuring modern amenities are included with every stay at the Willows Hotel. With nearby access to public transport systems, guests at the Willows can easily explore popular city center attractions, including the Steppenwolf Theatre and Wrigley Field. The Lincoln Park Zoo along with the scenic Lake Michigan coastline is also only minutes away.

Location: 555 West Surf, Lakeview, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Tel: 773-528-8400

Website: https://www.willowshotelchicago.com/

Price: $169 per night

Google Rating: 4.3/5

Hampton Inn Majestic Chicago Theatre District ranks 5th on the list of best cheap hotels in Chicago. An activity-packed day in Chicago begins at this hotel with a complimentary breakfast buffet. Outside, the ornate 20th-century architecture of Chicago's iconic theaters await; the hotel is under the same roof as the 114-year-old CIBC Theatre, after all. You'll also have no need to splurge on expensive cabs, as this spot is close to the public rail lines (also known as the CTA or "the L") and only a 10-minute walk to The Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Willis Tower, the tallest building in Chicago.

The property is an 11-minute walk from the beach. Located inside the historic CIBC Theater in the Loop, this hotel is located in downtown Chicago's Theater District and offers complimentary hot breakfast and comfortable rooms with free WiFi. Every room at Hampton Inn Majestic Chicago Theater District provides a 40-inch flat-screen LCD HDTV with premium cable channels and a work desk with an ergonomic chair. A coffee maker and safety deposit box are also included. Guests can work out at the on-site fitness center or utilize the printing and fax services at the hotel's business center. Laundry valet services are offered for guest convenience. Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago, and Willis Tower Skydeck are all within a 10-minute walk away from the hotel.

Location: 22 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603, USA

Tel: 312-332-5052

Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/chitdhx-hampton-majestic-chicago-theatre-district/

Price: $187 per night

Google Rating: 4.4/5

Located in Chicago's liveliest and most artistic district, River North, Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown Riverwalk puts you within walking distance of the Lake Michigan beachfront, as well as Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier, two of Chicago's main attractions. But with a skylit indoor pool, and the popular Weber Grill Restaurant (where chefs prepare favorites like Angus steaks and burgers on — you guessed it — Weber grills), you'd be fine to hang out at the hotel for the majority of your stay.

In Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown Riverwalk, the 23-story hotel in the ever-growing West Loop neighborhood offers spacious suites convenient for business and leisure travelers. Even suburbanites undertaking a staycation will like the fact that the hotel is close to Metra and Union stations as well as CTA (Green and Pink) lines. Suites feature fully-equipped kitchens with full-size refrigerators so you can easily prepare meals and have ready snacks to save more money. Count on microwaves, stove cooktops, and dishwashers. There are complimentary grills on the garden terrace, free grocery shopping service, or shop at the nearby Chicago French Market for groceries, cheeses, and more. Before you head out to the museums or shopping, enjoy a complimentary full, hot breakfast. Take a load off when the sun sets at the self-pour bar, Fulton Tap, where guests self-pour by the ounce.

Location: 66 E Wacker Pl, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Tel: 312-920-6666

Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/chinlgi-hilton-garden-inn-chicago-downtown-riverwalk/

Price: $190 per night

Google Rating: 4.3/5

The Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago-Downtown hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the exciting River North region of downtown Chicago, just one block west of North Michigan Avenue - better known as the Magnificent Mile. The downtown Chicago location, coupled with outstanding hotel accommodations, amenities, and services ensures a comfortable stay for all guests. Enjoy free breakfast daily and free WiFi. Finding a great hotel that satisfies you, your pet, and your wallet is no easy feat. Take advantage of the hotel's other amenities such as the complimentary evening social with small plates, drinks, and small talk with other guests.

This all-suite hotel is located in downtown Chicago, surrounded by upscale dining and shopping in the trendy River North neighborhood. It features free WiFi throughout the property. Two flat-screen TVs are included in each suite at Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago-Downtown. The kitchenette has a 2-burner stove and a full-size refrigerator. Grocery shopping services are offered. The gym boasts a flat-screen TV and views of the city. A gift shop is open to guests. Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute are within 2 km of the Chicago Downtown Homewood Suites.

Location: 40 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Tel: 312-644-2222

Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/chihwhw-homewood-suites-chicago-downtown/

Price: $191 per night

Google Rating: 4.3 /5

The Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago-Downtown hotel is conveniently located in the heart of the exciting River North region of downtown Chicago, just one block west of North Michigan Avenue - better known as the Magnificent Mile. The downtown Chicago location, coupled with outstanding hotel accommodations, amenities, and services ensures a comfortable stay for all guests. Enjoy free breakfast daily and free WiFi. Finding a great hotel that satisfies you, your pet, and your wallet is no easy feat. Take advantage of the hotel's other amenities such as the complimentary evening social with small plates, drinks, and small talk with other guests.

This all-suite hotel is located in downtown Chicago, surrounded by upscale dining and shopping in the trendy River North neighborhood. It features free WiFi throughout the property. Two flat-screen TVs are included in each suite at Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago-Downtown. The kitchenette has a 2-burner stove and a full-size refrigerator. Grocery shopping services are offered. The gym boasts a flat-screen TV and views of the city. A gift shop is open to guests. Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute are within 2 km of the Chicago Downtown Homewood Suites.

Location: 40 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Tel: 312-644-2222

Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/chihwhw-homewood-suites-chicago-downtown/

Price: $191 per night

Google Rating: 4.3 /5

Located in the heart of the vibrant River North district, Kinzie Hotel embodies the adventurous spirit of Chicago. Named after the renowned Chicago settler and silversmith, John Kinzie, the history and culture of this exciting city unfolds at the doorstep, waiting to be discovered. Boasting a central location near Michigan Avenue and the Loop, this contemporary Chicago boutique hotel is a sophisticated downtown escape for both business and leisure travelers. Enjoy the continental breakfast, conveniently served on each floor just steps from your guest room. Every evening from 5 pm - 8 pm, guests are welcome to unwind during the nightly reception in the Double Cross Lounge.

This River North boutique hotel offers a relaxed and laid-back stay just a few blocks from the riverfront and the Magnificent Mile. Each room is bright and airy, with local artwork adorning the walls. Offering its guests a few well-considered perks, including 24-hour access to the fitness center plus a complimentary drink per night and hors d’oeuvres served in the Double Cross Lounge, it’s the little touches that make the Kinzie an attractive option. Pets are welcome as well – there’s even a doggy room service menu.

Location: 20 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654, USA

Tel: 312-395-9000

Website: https://www.kinziehotel.com/

Price: $243 per night

Google Rating: 4.4/5

The Robey ranks 10th on the list of best cheap hotels in Chicago. A historical Art Deco hotel is once known as the Northwest Tower, The Robey is the only skyscraper in Chicago's hip Wicker Park neighborhood. Stay in one of the property's sunlit Tower Rooms, complete with sweeping skyline views, or check out the Annex Lofts for a modern warehouse-style stay (think: high ceilings, exposed surfaces, and sleek concrete flooring). All room bookings unlock full, free access to Bucktown Athletic Club right next door, which includes cardio equipment, a weight room, luxury locker rooms, and much more.

Occupying two distinctly different landmark buildings in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood, The Robey draws a hip and creative crowd with synergistic design and a smorgasbord of culinary offerings. Situated at the six-way intersection of Milwaukee, Damen, and North Avenues inside the Northwest Tower—a limestone Art Deco structure known colloquially as the Coyote Building—and an adjoining old fireproof warehouse, the property scoops up curious gourmands with Modern American cuisine at the ground-floor Café Robey and summer-inspired Americana dishes at Cabana Club, which also boasts a rooftop pool and terrace. Sky-high cocktails are also served at The Up Room rooftop cocktail lounge, which gazes out over Chicago’s ever-changing cityscape. The 89-room hotel by Grupo Habita also offers meeting facilities and a swanky Panorama suite and bar, which are more attuned to sober sophistication, while the hotel’s Robey Hall, inside the old Hollander Fireproof Warehouse, is a multifunctional event space.

Location: 2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA
Tel: 872-315-3050
Website: https://www.therobey.com/
Price: $250 per night
Google Rating: 4.5/5