Best Budget Hotels & Motels in Chicago

Welcome to the Windy City, where the vistas are as stunning as the skyline! Chicago is a throbbing, exhilarating city with thousands of attractions—from the beautiful Navy Pier to the cultural wonders of the Art Institute. However, with so much at one's fingertips, discovering cheap accommodations is key to taking advantage of your Chicago adventure fully. Don't worry, fellow travelers; we have scoured the city to bring you some pocket-friendly hotels and accommodations.

The Freehand Chicago

The Freehand Chicago Located smack dab in the middle of River North, Freehand Chicago is a hip hostel/hotel with a good mix of both private and shared rooms. The public spaces are very homey and eclectic. Head upstairs to the Broken Shaker, the swish rooftop bar, or stay downstairs and meet other travelers in the lively lobby. Prices start at $30 per night, and that is for the shared rooms. The Freehand is a great place to stay on a budget while being around others in a social and lively setting.

HI Chicago Hostel

HI Chicago Hostel is great for all travelers who want to be in the middle of it all, in the Loop near Millennium Park and the Art Institute. The hostel boasts clean and comfortable private and shared rooms, designed with much thought in mind. With prices starting at $35 per night, this hostel suits all budgets without making you feel desperate for location or amenity.

Urban Holiday Lofts

The hotel is located in the Bohemian Wicker Park neighborhood, and the Urban Holiday Lofts acts as a place to stay with a boutique hostel and a loft configuration. Guests at this hostel enjoy its modern furniture and brick walls, along with a fully equipped kitchen, and cozy common areas ideal for mingling with other travelers. You can get a very attractive but still pocket-friendly retreat for as little as $40 per night in a shared room at Urban Holiday Lofts in one of the hottest neighborhoods of Chicago.

The Chicago Parthenon Hostel

About The Chicago Parthenon Hostel Live the excitement and feel right at home in the center of Greektown at The Chicago Parthenon Hostel. A family-owned hostel, it provides private and shared rooms oozing warmth and friendliness. There is a community kitchen for meal creations, a cozy lounge area, and a rooftop deck overlooking the city. You'll find rates starting at just $30 per night, which means a taste of Chicago won't break the bank when you throw in a little Greek hospitality. Fieldhouse Jones is an ultra-fun, retro-inspired hostel that's peppered with a strong nod to Chicago's past as a sports town and lands in the heart of cool River North. This hostel combines mixed accommodation, with both private bedrooms and shared facilities that are individually designed with vintage furniture and modern amenities. While at it, one has the optional choice to kick back at the cozy library or challenge some friends to a heated round of table tennis and even try out some craft cocktails served from the on-site bar. Rates start at just $45 per night, and guests enjoy being a part of a bit of fun nostalgia.
 

Holiday Jones 

Take in the artistic flair of the Chicago Bucktown neighborhood at Holiday Jones—a boutique hostel with a creative, bohemian vibe. This hostel ranges from shared dorms to private suites, all themed and decorated colorfully, even randomly. An added rooftop deck, bright common areas in which to mix and mingle or just chill out, and nearby trendy shops and eateries only help enhance your adventure. Add a starting rate of $40/night at Holiday Jones to the appeal and you'll have one frugal and artful foray inside one of Chicago's most happening neighborhoods. 

Whether you are a solo traveler, a backpacker on your first trip, or going with friends, there is something in Chicago that will give you an option, regardless of budget, and fit style and preference. One hip hostel downtown, swanky in its ambiance or boutique in a hipster locality, with affordability being its soulmate—you need nothing more than bags packed and will be all set for an adventure; put straight into the culture, food, and history that this Windy City awaits your presence for! There you have it, fellow travelers! You do not compromise on your ease, style, and location while staying in these budget options. Whether you are going to explore iconic landmarks or various neighborhoods, delve into culinary pleasures, or do business in town—such options will create a great base for your adventures. So just book your stay in the Windy City and unlock the magic of Chicago that is easy on the pocket! Have a great ride and make pleasant discoveries.