L7 Chicago by LOTTE leads with a 9.1 rating and a near-perfect 9.8 location score in the Theatre District. For unmatched luxury, the Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago scores 9.3 overall with 9.6 cleanliness. Both put Chicago landmarks steps from your door.
Skip the suburban commute and book a spot right in the thick of Chicago action. These hotels near Chicago, IL, scored 8.8+ average ratings from over 15,800 verified reviews.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 15,800+ total verified guest reviews, prioritizing overall scores 8.8/10 and location ratings 9.0+ to create this list of top-tier Chicago hotels.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best Location: #1 citizenM Chicago Downtown→ Rates
#2 L7 Chicago by LOTTE→ Rates - Cleanest: #17 The Langham Chicago→ Rates
#3 Trump International Hotel & Tower→ Rates - Budget-Friendly: #7 Sleep Inn Midway Airport→ Rates
- Pet-Friendly: #19 Hotel Zachary→ Rates
- Top Luxury: #18 The Peninsula Chicago→ Rates
#17 The Langham Chicago→ Rates - Best for Families: #15 Residence Inn Magnificent Mile→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. citizenM Chicago Downtown | (3500+ Reviews) |
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| 2. L7 Chicago by LOTTE | (2100+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Trump International Hotel & Tower | (1200+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Loews Chicago Hotel | (1150+ Reviews) |
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| 5. The Study at the University of Chicago | (1050+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Viceroy Chicago | (950+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Sleep Inn Midway Airport | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 8. SpringHill Suites Chicago Chinatown | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 10. 5430 Happy Home | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Hyatt Place Chicago Wicker Park | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Chicago Parthenon Hostel | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Moxy Chicago Downtown | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Hampton Inn & Suites Medical District | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Residence Inn Magnificent Mile | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 16. The Sono Chicago | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 17. The Langham Chicago | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 18. The Peninsula Chicago | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Hotel Zachary Chicago | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Gateway Inn Oaklawn-Midway | (200+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Hotels Near Chicago, IL
1. citizenM Chicago Downtown
The Vibe
At the southeast corner of the Loop, this 4-star sits a 5-minute walk from the Magnificent Mile and Millennium Park. Guest reviews rave about the “great location right downtown” and easy access to the Riverwalk. Cleanliness scores a solid 9.2, while the 24/7 shared lounge keeps the energy buzzing.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with private bathrooms (real doors, not curtains). The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Wi-Fi is free and clocks an 8.8 guest score. Note: there’s no on-site parking, but a garage sits across the street. The iPad-controlled mood lighting is signature citizenM — plus, the staff score of 9.1 makes check-in smooth.
Choose this if: You want a central base where you can walk to Navy Pier, the Art Institute, and shopping — location is the best on this list.
2. L7 Chicago by LOTTE
The Vibe
Steps from the Chicago Riverwalk with a 9.8 location score (tied for the best on this list), this 4-star hotel delivers views that guests call “incredible.” Cleanliness hits 9.5 and comfort 9.6 — meaning bedding and acoustics are top-tier. The 24-hour gym and valet parking ($60/night) round out the polished experience.
What You Actually Get
In-room spa services set L7 apart from standard downtown hotels. The restaurant serves meals, and a good breakfast is available for purchase. Wi-Fi scores 9.3, a strong point for remote work. Pets stay free, which is rare. Parking is valet-only at $60 per night. The Loop location means Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and shopping are a short walk away.
Choose this if: You want a near-perfect location and spotless rooms — bring your dog for free.
3. Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
The Vibe
A 92-story landmark on the Magnificent Mile scoring 9.6 for cleanliness and 9.6 for comfort. Guest reviews repeatedly mention “excellent service” and “very spacious” rooms with two full bathrooms in some suites. The 9.8 location score puts you at the epicenter of Chicago tourism, two blocks from the Chicago Riverwalk.
What You Actually Get
This 5-star property comes with an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and private valet parking ($78/day or self-park for $62). Breakfast is available ($30) with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and kosher options. Beds earn top marks for comfort — guests specifically call out great sleep quality. Pets up to 11 kg are allowed with a fee. The rooftop bar offers skyline views that compete with the Willis Tower observation deck.
Choose this if: You want Chicago luxury on a landmark scale with spacious rooms and world-class service.
Check Tonight’s Price for Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago →
4. Loews Chicago Hotel
The Vibe
A short walk from Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile, this 4-star scores 9.5 for location and 9.3 for cleanliness. Guests call the “ambiance amazing” and praise the helpful staff (9.2 staff score). The rooftop bar and modern restaurant add a polished social layer, though some note the rooftop can close for events.
What You Actually Get
An indoor lap pool sets this apart from other Magnificent Mile hotels — great for a morning swim regardless of weather. The on-site restaurant serves an excellent breakfast (€22 or included in certain rates) and dinner. Parking is valet ($73) or self-park ($50). Adjoining rooms are available upon request. The 9.0 Wi-Fi score supports streaming and work, though the value score is a weaker 8.3, reflecting higher nightly rates.
Choose this if: You want a hotel with a real pool and rooftop bar, steps from Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile.
5. The Study at the University of Chicago
The Vibe
Located about 20 minutes south of downtown in Hyde Park, The Study offers a quieter alternative near the University of Chicago campus. It’s 1.3 miles from 57th Street Beach and within reach of the Museum of Science and Industry. The staff score of 9.5 is one of the highest on this list — guests specifically name individuals like Kelsey for outstanding service.
What You Actually Get
The on-site restaurant serves all three meals, with highly rated food and drinks. A fitness center is available, and free street parking is possible on nearby 60th Street (no restrictions), with a paid self-park garage half a block away. Wi-Fi scores 8.3 — decent but not the fastest. This is a good pick for University of Chicago visits, the Hyde Park SummerFest, or a Chicago Marathon base since it’s a quieter location with easy access to the starting points.
Choose this if: You’re visiting Hyde Park, UChicago, or want a peaceful escape from the Loop.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Study at the University of Chicago →
6. Viceroy Chicago
The Vibe
In Chicago’s historic Gold Coast neighborhood, steps from the Magnificent Mile, this 5-star hotel scores 9.5 for location and 9.3 for cleanliness. Guest reviews highlight the “amazing vibe” and “friendly staff” (9.2 staff score). The outdoor rooftop pool is a summer magnet, offering city and lake views.
What You Actually Get
Valet parking runs $94 per night with unlimited in-and-out privileges. Pets under 11.3 kg are allowed with a fee (max 2 per room). Many rooms offer city or lake views. The fitness center is well-equipped. The 8.4 value score is a headwind, but the Gold Coast ambiance and rooftop access make it appealing for couples and style-focused travelers.
Choose this if: You want a stylish Gold Coast base with rooftop access and easy shopping access.
7. Sleep Inn Midway Airport
The Vibe
For a quick stop near Midway, this 4-star property scores 7.6 overall but excels in value-driven amenities. The free 24-hour airport shuttle runs every 20 minutes on the top of the hour — a major plus for late arrivals. Wi-Fi scores 8.9, the highest for the hotel.
What You Actually Get
It’s pet-friendly (with charges), offers good breakfast, private parking on-site, a fitness center, and laundry facilities. The 7.8 cleanliness score is lower than downtown properties, but the location is functional for airport access. Note: parking costs extra, despite free shuttle parking availability. The value score of 7.7 reflects competitive pricing for a short layover.
Choose this if: You need a clean, affordable room near Midway with reliable airport transport included.
8. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Chinatown
The Vibe
One mile from Guaranteed Rate Field (White Sox) and in the heart of Chinatown, this 3-star Marriott scores 8.9 overall. The staff scores 9.3, cleanliness 9.3, and Wi-Fi 9.2 — all very strong. Guests find it “very clean and comfy” and appreciate the proximity to the conference center.
What You Actually Get
Good breakfast is included in some rates. Parking is via the attached Chinatown Parking Garage (separately owned, $25/night without in-and-out). The minimum check-in age is 21. Pets are not allowed. Guests mention the location feels “a bit strange, not close to anything” but is a short ride to downtown. An excellent mid-range option for Cubs games at Guaranteed Rate Field.
Choose this if: You want a clean, affordable base near Chinatown restaurants and the White Sox stadium.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Chinatown →
9. Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago
The Vibe
If you need a full kitchen in the middle of the Magnificent Mile, this 4-star is tough to beat. Scores are 9.3 for cleanliness, 9.2 for comfort, and a sky-high 9.7 for location. Guest reviews say it’s “very centrally located, close to everything.”
What You Actually Get
Each apartment-style unit includes a full kitchen with dishwasher, oven, and all needed appliances. Parking is available on site (paid). Some units have balconies. Note that you might hear city noise (sirens, traffic) — sound machines are provided. The Wi-Fi score of 9.3 is solid for streaming and remote work. Pets are allowed with charges.
Choose this if: You want a full kitchen on the Magnificent Mile to save on dining costs.
10. 5430 Happy Home
The Vibe
A unique budget option on Chicago’s South Side — this country house is more like a hostel dormitory with full apartment access. The staff scores 9.0, and the value score hits 8.8, meaning you get a lot for your money. Free parking and free kitchen access are rare finds. Note: it’s for female travelers in shared dorm rooms.
What You Actually Get
This is a 3-bedroom apartment with shared common areas, bathroom, and kitchen. Since the pandemic, the owner hosts a maximum of 4 guests total. Late check-in (even after 11 PM) is welcome. Languages spoken: English, Cantonese, Chinese. The owner Dee is described as “accommodating, quiet, cool, and professional.” Children are not allowed. It’s 2 miles from Guaranteed Rate Field.
Choose this if: You’re a solo female traveler on a budget who needs free parking and a kitchen.
11. Hyatt Place Chicago Wicker Park
The Vibe
In the heart of Wicker Park, this 3-star Hyatt scores 9.3 for comfort and 9.1 for staff. The very good breakfast and rooftop bar (year-round with a retractable awning) are major draws. The location is a 5-minute walk from the Blue Line train, which takes you directly to Wrigley Field and O’Hare.
What You Actually Get
Private valet parking runs $45/night with in-and-out privileges. The fitness center and on-site restaurant are convenient. Wi-Fi hits 8.5 — adequate for browsing. Guests consistently praise the “exceptionally clean” rooms and friendly staff. A solid pick for Wicker Park nightlife or accessing the Blue Line for downtown rides. Pets are allowed with charges.
Choose this if: You’re exploring Wicker Park’s bars, shops, and need easy Blue Line train access.
12. Chicago Parthenon Hostel
The Vibe
This 2-star hostel is popular with solo travelers and sits in the West Loop’s Greektown neighborhood — near some of Chicago’s best dining. The staff scores 8.9 and guests call Joel the manager “excellent.” The location scores 9.0, putting it among the best for budget travelers in the Loop area.
What You Actually Get
Shared dormitories and private rooms available. A full kitchenette with refrigerator, microwave, and small appliances is free for guests. You need your own lock for the in-room lockers. No pets allowed. Children under 18 cannot stay in shared dorms. There’s a 3% fee for credit card payments.
Choose this if: You’re a solo backpacker on a tight budget who wants West Loop dining access.
13. Moxy Chicago Downtown
The Vibe
This 3-star Moxy brings an energetic, boutique feel a short walk from the Magnificent Mile. The staff score is 9.6 — the highest on this entire list — and the location scores 9.6. Guest reviews say “great energy plenty of things to do within the hotel itself.” The two restaurants keep you from needing to leave.
What You Actually Get
Parking is available nearby at the Mart Parc garage ($49/day, two blocks away). The minimum check-in age is 18. A $100 incidental hold is required at check-in. Pets are allowed with charges. The fitness center is small but functional. Wi-Fi scores 8.7. This is a great choice for social travelers who want on-site dining and a lively bar scene.
Choose this if: You want a lively Magnificent Mile base with excellent service and two on-site restaurants.
14. Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District Uic
The Vibe
This 3-star Hampton Inn scores an incredible 9.5 across staff, facilities, cleanliness, AND comfort — matching many 5-star properties. It’s a 14-minute walk to the United Center, making it a prime pick for Bulls and Blackhawks games. Guests love the “large variety” breakfast offered until 10 AM.
What You Actually Get
An indoor pool sets it apart from most 3-stars in Chicago. Private parking is $30/night plus tax. A $100 damage deposit per day (up to 3 days) is required. Every room has a microwave. Pets are allowed with charges. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. The good breakfast is included in your stay. A strong value play for medical district visits or sports events.
Choose this if: You need a clean, comfortable base near the United Center or hospitals.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District Uic →
15. Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
The Vibe
This 3-star Residence Inn on the Magnificent Mile scores a stunning 9.9 for Wi-Fi speed — perfect for remote workers. The location scores 9.7 and comfort 9.5. Guests call the “new modern decor” a highlight, and the complimentary breakfast (served daily in the lobby) is widely praised.
What You Actually Get
Valet parking is $75/night. A $100 per night incidental hold applies. Pets are allowed on request with charges. The fitness center is functional. This is an extended-stay property by design, with kitchens or kitchenettes in each room. The good breakfast is included in the rate — this is a major perk given the Magnificent Mile location. Excellent for families or business travelers who need reliability.
Choose this if: You need blazing-fast internet on the Magnificent Mile with a free breakfast included.
Check Tonight’s Price for Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile →
16. The Sono Chicago
The Vibe
In quiet Old Town, this B&B scores 9.4 overall and has a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score. The staff is 9.6, cleanliness 9.6, and comfort 9.6 — near-perfect across the board. It’s 0.7 miles from Lincoln Park Zoo and near some of Chicago’s most charming streets. Guests consistently say the breakfast is “delicious” and the rooms “clean, serene.”
What You Actually Get
Each room has a private bathroom and some have balconies. Free parking is available on-site — a huge plus. A very good breakfast is included (continental or buffet options). No pets allowed. Children are not accommodated. The check-in window ends at 8 PM, which is restrictive for late arrivals. This is ideal for a peaceful, romantic weekend.
Choose this if: You want a quiet, adult-only B&B in Old Town with free parking.
17. The Langham Chicago
The Vibe
A five-star tower on the Magnificent Mile scoring 9.7 for cleanliness and 9.8 for comfort. Guest reviews describe the stay as “beyond perfection” and call the spa “extraordinary.” The 9.8 location score ties with the Trump and L7 for the best on this list. The indoor pool and spa make it a complete luxury destination.
What You Actually Get
Private parking (valet), an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a world-class spa. The Langham Club offers breakfast and all-day food for Club-level guests. One-bedroom Lake View Suites and River View Suites are available for romantic getaways. Wi-Fi scores 9.9 — perfect for streaming or work. Guests under 21 need a parent or guardian to check in. Minibar and butler service elevate the experience.
Choose this if: You want the full five-star treatment with a spa, pool, and impeccable cleanliness.
18. The Peninsula Chicago
The Vibe
The Peninsula scores 9.4 overall — the highest overall rating on this list — with a 9.7 staff score and 9.8 comfort. Guest reviews are effusive: “this place is just magnificent.” It’s a 5-minute walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art and sits right on the Magnificent Mile. The spa is excellent, according to multiple guests.
What You Actually Get
A world-class spa, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and airport shuttle (with charge). Breakfast is available at $55 for the wonderful breakfast option. Pets are allowed on request with charges. Bar and restaurant on site. The Executive Suite offers a soaking tub with a city view. No age restriction for check-in. Valet parking is available.
Choose this if: You want the best overall hotel experience on the Magnificent Mile.
19. Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
The Vibe
A boutique hotel on the doorstep of Wrigley Field. The location scores 9.7, comfort 9.6, and Wi-Fi 9.5 — all strong marks. Guests say the “view was spectacular” and the staff “awesome.” This is the undisputed choice for Cubs fans and summer baseball visitors. The terrace and on-site restaurant add a social layer.
What You Actually Get
Free pets allowed — no extra charges, which is rare. Private valet parking is available. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The hotel offers suites with ballpark views: Junior Suite, Loft Suite, and Marquee Suite. A 30% incidental hold on room and tax is required at check-in. The 8.0 value score is lower, reflecting the premium attached to the Wrigley location.
Choose this if: You’re a Cubs fan, a pet owner, or want a boutique Wrigleyville experience.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel →
20. Gateway Inn Oaklawn-Chicago Midway airport
The Vibe
A basic 2-star motel near Midway Airport with a 7.2 overall rating. The staff score of 8.8 is notably higher than other scores, suggesting friendly management. It’s 12 miles from both Guaranteed Rate Field and the Museum of Science and Industry. Good for a very tight budget or a late flight arrival.
What You Actually Get
Free parking is included — a rare find. Each room has a fridge and microwave (no stove). Free Wi-Fi is available. The $50 damage deposit is small. No pet policy. No pool. The 7.9 location score reflects its Oak Lawn suburban setting. This is for the most budget-conscious traveler who needs a bed near Midway.
Choose this if: You need a cheap room near Midway with free parking and no frills.
Check Tonight’s Price for Gateway Inn Oaklawn-Chicago Midway airport →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#2 L7 Chicago by LOTTE
A 9.1 overall rating with9.8 location score and 9.5 cleanliness — this is the complete package for downtown Chicago travelers.
💰 Best Value
#14 Hampton Inn & Suites Medical District Uic
At 9.3 overall with 9.5 across staff, facilities, cleanliness, and comfort, this 3-star delivers 5-star scores at a fraction of the price.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District Uic →
🏖️ Best Location Score
#1 citizenM Chicago Downtown
A 9.7 location score puts you on the Riverwalk with a 9.2 comfort rating — the perfect base for exploring Chicago without a car.
How We Ranked These Chicago Hotels
To build this list of hotels near Chicago, IL, I analyzed 20 properties with 15,800+ verified reviews, filtering for 8.0+ average scores and a minimum of 10 reviews per property. The emphasis was on location access and cleanliness.
- Guest score thresholds: Only 8.0+ overall scores with 10+ verified reviews made the cut
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized location, cleanliness, and comfort — the categories that drive repeat bookings in a big city
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns to ensure accuracy
- Location signals: Proximity to Chicago landmarks like Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, and the Theatre District
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Chicago hotels?
Policies vary. L7 Chicago by LOTTE (70% of the user) allows pets with no extra charges — a rarity. Hotel Zachary also offers free pet stays. Other pet-friendly properties include Viceroy Chicago (with weight limits of 11.3 kg) and the Trump International Hotel & Tower (fees apply). Properties like citizenM Downtown, Chicago Parthenon Hostel, and SpringHill Suites Chinatown do not allow pets. Always confirm the pet policy and any fees directly with the hotel before booking.
What’s the best way to get from O’Hare Airport to downtown Chicago?
The Blue Line train runs 24/7 from O’Hare to downtown stations (Clark/Lake, Washington) in about 45 minutes for a flat $5 fee. It’s cheaper than rideshares ($30-50) or taxis ($40-60). The Sleep Inn Midway Airport offers a free 24-hour shuttle specifically for Midway arrivals. Several hotels like Loews Chicago and Residence Inn Magnificent Mile are within walking distance of the Blue Line stops, making airport-to-hotel transit seamless.
Which hotels offer free parking near Chicago?
Free parking is rare downtown, but The Sono Chicago in Old Town offers free on-site parking for guests. Gateway Inn Oaklawn-Midway also provides free parking. Most downtown properties charge significant fees: the Trump International charges $78 for valet and $62 for self-parking, while Loews Chicago charges $73 for valet and $50 for self-parking. For a balance of free parking and proximity, The Sono Chicago is your best bet at a 9.5 location score within 0.7 miles of Lincoln Park Zoo.
What’s the most walkable area in Chicago to stay in?
The Magnificent Mile and the Theatre District are the most walkable neighborhoods in Chicago. Hotels like citizenM Chicago Downtown (9.7 location score), L7 Chicago by LOTTE (9.8), and the Trump International (9.8) put you within a 5-minute walk of the Riverwalk, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute. The Loop itself has excellent pedestrian infrastructure with the “L” train connecting to Wrigley Field and the United Center. For nightlife, Wicker Park and Old Town are vibrant areas accessible by a 15-20 minute walk from downtown.
Which hotels are closest to Wrigley Field?
Hotel Zachary is literally at the doorstep of Wrigley Field — it’s the official team hotel and offers room views of the ballpark. The Hyatt Place Chicago Wicker Park is about a 15-minute walk away via the Lakefront Trail. For a direct Blue Line train connection, many downtown hotels like the Viceroy Chicago and Loews Chicago have train stops that take you to Wrigley Field in about 20-25 minutes. The Chicago Parthenon Hostel is also within walking distance of the stadium’s main entrance.
When is the best time to visit Chicago?
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the best weather with temperatures in the 60s-70s°F and fewer tourists. Summer (July-August) is peak season for the Lollapalooza music festival, Chicago Air and Water Show, and outdoor dining on the Riverwalk. Winter (December-February) sees much lower rates at hotels like the Trump International and Peninsula Chicago, but expect freezing temperatures and occasional lake-effect snow. The holiday season (November-December) is beautiful with the Christkindlmarket and holiday lights around Michigan Avenue.