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- As states continue reopening following shutdowns due the novel coronavirus, many travelers are seeking ways to safely vacation. While some vacationers prefer more remote getaways right now, others are tentatively looking to visit cities again, and some city dwellers are looking for staycation options for a change of pace.
- Chicago’s architecture, mouth-watering dining scene, and lakefront location have made it a popular choice for tourists for years.
- From boutique stays to cheap minimal hotels and huge luxury towers, there’s a wide range of accommodations for every taste and budget. Most feature historic architecture and stunning rooftops.
- We chose top hotels at affordable price points across the city, and have noted updated COVID-19 cleaning policies and procedures for all below.
- Read more: Is it safe to stay in a hotel right now? An infectious disease doctor, a cleaning expert, and hotel reps all share what you should know before you check-in.
As you might expect from one of the world’s greatest cities, Chicago is home to architectural marvels, an award-winning dining scene, innovative museums, and stunning lakefront scenery. Since I moved here more than 20 years ago, I’m constantly impressed by the rich cultural offerings the city provides, and the deep pride my fellow residents and I have for this city.
With a record-breaking 57.6 million visitors in 2018, according to the Chicago Sun-Times, the largest city in the Midwest has grown to include numerous compelling hotel choices. Of course, the novel coronavirus unexpectedly upended the travel industry in major cities across the US, including Chicago.
However, as states continue to reopen and travelers look to book safe vacations again, many are still eager to visit top locales. If you’re wondering if it’s safe to travel right now, it’s important to consider all the risks associated with travel, and hotels specifically. Without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee of safety and it’s always important to follow guidelines from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and wear a mask, wash your hands, and follow proper social distancing protocols.
Hotels are also implementing new cleaning policies to help guests rest easier. We’ve noted updated policies for each of the hotels on this list below.
However, because the pandemic situation is constantly evolving, you may want to read up on hotel cancellation policies. You should also always check local and state government regulations before booking any travel, and be extra mindful if you are traveling to or from hotspot areas.
With all that said, from intimate boutiques to world-renowned opulence, Chicago offers an enormous selection of accommodations for business travelers, luxury seekers, families, and tourists of all sorts.
Traveling elsewhere? Read our list of the best hotels in other popular cities:
As a self-proclaimed ambassador for Chicago who’s always encouraging friends to visit, I’m always asked for recommendations on where to stay. My answers typically depend on the person’s style preferences, location requirements, reasons for visiting, and of course, budget. These factors similarly fueled the following list, to highlight the hotels that best tick all those boxes: stylish, centrally located, near business and leisure, and are reasonably priced.
On the latter, hotel prices in Chicago run the gamut. In low season such as winter, some of the best hotels can start around $100 per night (excluding the holidays). Of course, they go up from there. Be prepared for many hotels to jump up a couple hundred dollars in summer.
Our picks are found in prime locations and have special amenities you’ll love with elevated design. In Chicago, that routinely means historic architecture and excellent rooftops. Prefer Airbnb? Here are some of our favorites in Chicago.
Mostly, they’re worthy of your hard-earned cash — or reward points.