20 Safe Areas to Stay in Chicago | By Neighborhood, Ranked for Safety

1. citizenM Chicago Downtown

The Vibe

citizenM delivers a compact, design-forward stay right on Wacker Place — steps from the river walk and a short walk to Millennium Park. The 9.6 location score is the draw, and guests consistently praise the cleanliness (9.2) and staff (9.1). It’s a smart pick for solo travelers or couples who prioritize walkability over square footage.

What You Actually Get

Every room comes with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and free WiFi that scores 8.8. The shared lounge adds a social element, and the on-site restaurant serves breakfast from 6am to 11am ($18.95 plus tax). Note: there’s no on-site parking, but a public garage sits across the street. The property is non-smoking and does not allow pets (service animals accepted with advance notice). Check-out is a generous 11:00 AM — you can sleep in.

Choose this if: You want Theatre District walkability with a reliably clean room and an efficient layout.

2. L7 Chicago by LOTTE

The Vibe

Perched right on the Chicago River in the Loop, L7 Chicago by LOTTE combines a 9.8 location score with a 9.5 cleanliness rating and free pet stays — no extra charges. The 24-hour gym, on-site restaurant, and valet parking ($60/night) make it a full-service package. Guests call the rooms comfortable (9.6) and the staff superb (9.3).

What You Actually Get

Rooms include in-room spa services — a rare perk at this price tier — and the property offers a good breakfast for $26. Free WiFi scores 9.3. Parking is valet only at $60/night with in-and-out privileges. Children 18 and up are charged as adults. The property accepts pets with no extra fee. Note: no airport shuttle is available, but the Blue Line from O’Hare is a short walk away.

Choose this if: You want a central Theatre District base with river views and bring your dog at no extra cost.

6. Pendry Chicago

The Vibe

Set in a historic Michigan Avenue building, Pendry Chicago offers boutique character with a 9.6 location score in the Theatre District. Guests love the comfortable beds (9.4) and the free bike rentals for exploring. The daily resort fee ($76/night valet parking) covers a welcome cocktail, high-speed WiFi, and in-room coffee.

What You Actually Get

All rooms feature private ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, and city views. The fitness center is open 24/7. A good breakfast is available for $26. Pets are allowed with a nonrefundable fee. The property accepts all pets — no weight or breed restrictions mentioned. Check-in runs until midnight, useful for late arrivals. The historic architecture means some rooms have unique layouts.

Choose this if: You prefer boutique character in the Theatre District with a daily resort fee that actually delivers value.

3. Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago

The Vibe

From its 92-story stainless steel tower, Trump International delivers a 9.8 location score and a 9.6 cleanliness score. Rooms are spacious — some with two full bathrooms — and every unit includes a deep soaking tub. The indoor swimming pool and on-site restaurant add resort-style comfort to the Magnificent Mile address.

What You Actually Get

Valet parking runs $78/night; self-park is $62. Free WiFi scores 8.0 — lower than other scores but stable. Breakfast options include continental, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and American. Up to two pets under 11 kg are permitted for a fee. Minimum check-in age is 21. The rooftop bar offers skyline views that justify the 92-story height.

Choose this if: You want 5-star space on Magnificent Mile with a deep soaking tub and an indoor pool.

4. Loews Chicago Hotel

The Vibe

Loews Chicago combines a 9.5 location score with an indoor lap pool and a rooftop lounge. Guests rate comfort at 9.4 and staff at 9.2. The on-site restaurant serves excellent breakfast ($22) and dinner. Valet parking is $73; self-park runs $50. The property charges the first night’s stay at booking.

What You Actually Get

All rooms feature air conditioning and free WiFi (9.0). Pets are allowed with charges. The hotel offers adjoining rooms — contact the property directly to request and pre-block them. Check-out is noon, giving you extra time to enjoy the rooftop bar and pool. The hotel’s position on Park Drive puts you close to Navy Pier and the river walk.

Choose this if: You want a 4-star with a serious indoor pool and rooftop bar near Navy Pier.

9. Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago

The Vibe

Kasa offers apartment-style stays on Magnificent Mile with a 9.7 location score. Each unit includes a kitchen with dishwasher, oven, and free WiFi (9.3). Some units have balconies — though you can’t guarantee which one you’ll get before check-in. Cleanliness scores 9.3 and comfort 9.2.

What You Actually Get

On-site parking is available but not included. Pets are allowed with charges. Air conditioning and a fitness center are standard. The property acknowledges urban noise (sirens, traffic) and provides sound machines on request — a thoughtful touch for light sleepers. Check-out is 11:00 AM but you can leave the bags and explore.

Choose this if: You need a kitchen on Magnificent Mile for extended stays or self-catering.

12. Moxy Chicago Downtown

The Vibe

Moxy brings a playful energy to Magnificent Mile with a 9.6 location score and a 9.6 staff rating — the highest staff score on this list. The lobby doubles as a social hub with games and a bar, and guests love the aesthetic and included drink tickets. It’s a Marriott brand designed for younger travelers and groups.

What You Actually Get

Rooms are compact but well-designed, with city views, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. Free WiFi scores 8.7. The fitness center is available 24/7. Parking is not on-site; the recommended Mart Parc garage is two blocks away ($49/night). Pets are allowed with charges. Minimum check-in age is 18. A $100 incidental hold is taken at check-in.

Choose this if: You want a lively, social stay on Magnificent Mile with top-tier staff and a young vibe.

14. Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile

The Vibe

Residence Inn delivers a reliable extended-stay experience on Magnificent Mile. The 9.7 location score and a Wi-Fi score of 9.9 — the highest in this guide — make it ideal for remote work or family trips. Complimentary breakfast is served daily in the lobby-level dining area. Comfort scores 9.5, cleanliness 9.4.

What You Actually Get

All rooms include free WiFi and air conditioning. Valet parking is $75/night. Pets are allowed on request with charges. The fitness center is open 24/7. A $100 per night incidental authorization is taken at check-in. Check-in runs until midnight, which helps for late arrivals. The property is a 19-minute walk from Oak Street Beach.

Choose this if: You need stellar Wi-Fi and a free breakfast on Magnificent Mile for work or family travel.

16. The Langham Chicago

The Vibe

The Langham is a 5-star standout on Magnificent Mile, scoring 9.4 overall with a 9.8 location score and a 9.8 comfort score. The indoor pool offers river views, and the spa is considered one of Chicago’s best. Cleanliness hits 9.7 — the highest on this list. Guests call the service “beyond perfection.”

What You Actually Get

Rooms come with deep soaking tubs and free WiFi (9.9). Private parking is available at the hotel. Pets are allowed on request with charges. The Club lounge serves breakfast and food throughout the day for guests booking club-level rooms. Minimum check-in age is 21. The hotel is two blocks from Magnificent Mile shopping.

Choose this if: Luxury matters — you want 5-star service, a spa, and a pool with a view on Magnificent Mile.

17. The Peninsula Chicago

The Vibe

The Peninsula is a 5-star icon on Magnificent Mile, scoring a 9.4 overall with a 9.7 staff rating — the highest staff score among 5-stars on this list. The Executive Suite offers a soaking tub with city views. The indoor pool, spa, and airport shuttle round out a luxury package. Comfort scores 9.8.

What You Actually Get

Free WiFi scores 9.0. The airport shuttle is a practical addition for a 5-star property. Wonderful breakfast is available for $48. Pets are allowed on request with charges. No age restriction for check-in — the most flexible policy on this list. The property is a 5-minute walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Choose this if: You want the full 5-star treatment — spa, service, and a soaking tub with a skyline view.

11. Hyatt Place Chicago Wicker Park

The Vibe

Hyatt Place Wicker Park scores 8.9 overall with a 9.3 comfort rating. The location (9.0) puts you in Wicker Park, a neighborhood known for independent shops, breweries, and restaurants. The rooftop bar operates year-round with a retractable awning — rain or shine. Guests praise the cleanliness (9.2) and the very good breakfast.

What You Actually Get

Private valet parking runs $45/night with in-and-out privileges. Pets are allowed with charges. Rooms feature balconies in select units. The restaurant and rooftop are open year-round. The Blue Line is nearby for direct access to O’Hare and the Loop. Free WiFi scores 8.5. Check-out is noon.

Choose this if: You want Wicker Park’s local scene with a pet-friendly policy and a rooftop that works in any weather.

18. Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

The Vibe

Hotel Zachary sits right outside Wrigley Field with a 9.7 location score — the highest in Wrigleyville. The boutique property features a second-floor bar overlooking the ballpark, free coffee and tea until 3pm, and on-site dining. Comfort scores 9.6, cleanliness 9.3. Free pets (no extra charges) add serious value.

What You Actually Get

Private valet parking is available. Free WiFi scores 9.5. The property has a terrace and a fitness center. Suites with ballpark views are available — Junior Suite, Loft Suite, and Marquee Suite. The restaurant is not yet open, but the bar is operational. Incidental hold is 30% of room and tax. Groups booking more than 6 rooms have different policies.

Choose this if: You’re a Cubs fan (or just want ballpark energy) and travel with your pet at no extra cost.

5. The Study at the University of Chicago

The Vibe

The Study is a 4-star boutique hotel in Hyde Park, scoring 9.0 overall with a 9.5 staff rating — among the highest staff scores on this list. The location (9.4) puts you steps from the UChicago campus and 1.3 miles from 57th Street Beach. Guests rave about the on-site restaurant: “delicious food, fantastic drinks.”

What You Actually Get

Private parking is available (street parking on the north side of 60th is free and unrestricted). Free WiFi scores 8.3. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Pets are allowed with a $75 flat fee — no restrictions on number or size. The 24-hour fitness center is a plus. Check-out is noon.

Choose this if: You’re visiting UChicago or exploring Hyde Park’s museums and want a hotel with standout service.

20. Sophy Hyde Park

The Vibe

Sophy Hyde Park scores 9.0 overall with a 9.5 cleanliness score. The location (9.0) is six blocks from former President Obama’s Hyde Park home, surrounded by walkable restaurants, parks, and shops. The property blends art, science, and music themes into its decor — guests call it “classy” with “spacious rooms.”

What You Actually Get

Private parking is available. Free WiFi scores 9.5. The on-site restaurant serves dinner but note: it closes at 3pm on Sundays and is closed on Mondays. Only dogs are permitted as pets, with charges applicable. The deluxe king rooms include a deep soaking tub and separate shower. Elevator access to upper floors is available.

Choose this if: Cleanliness is your top priority and you want to walk to Hyde Park’s restaurants and the UChicago campus.

8. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Chinatown

The Vibe

SpringHill Suites Chinatown scores 8.9 overall with a 9.3 staff rating and 9.3 cleanliness. The location (8.9) is attached to the Chinatown Parking Garage — not hotel-owned, but convenient. Guests appreciate the full breakfast, security measures, and quiet rooms. It’s a short walk to Guaranteed Rate Field (White Sox).

What You Actually Get

The attached garage costs $25/night without in-and-out access. Free WiFi scores 9.2. No pets allowed. Minimum check-in age is 21. The property has an elevator, fitness center, and good breakfast included. The 24-hour front desk and key card access add security. Check-out is noon.

Choose this if: You want Chinatown dining at your doorstep and a consistent Marriott product near Guaranteed Rate Field.

10. 5430 Happy Home

The Vibe

5430 Happy Home is a budget-friendly country house in Bronzeville, scoring 8.2 overall with an 8.7 value score — the best value on this list. It offers free parking and a shared kitchen, operating more like a hostel with private rooms. The host, Dee, is described as “accommodating, quiet, cool, and professional.”

What You Actually Get

Free parking is included — a rare perk in Chicago. The shared kitchen has all basics. One room is a female-only dormitory (3 guests max). Children are not allowed. Languages spoken include English, Cantonese, and Chinese. Check-in is limited to 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM, but late arrivals (10:30 PM) can be arranged. Pets are not allowed.

Choose this if: You’re on a tight budget, driving, and comfortable with hostel-style shared spaces in a quiet residential area.

15. The Sono Chicago

The Vibe

The Sono Chicago is a 3-room B&B in Old Town, scoring 9.4 overall with a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score. Guests call it “clean, serene” with “no outside noise.” Cleanliness (9.6), comfort (9.6), and location (9.5) all sit near the top of this guide. Lincoln Park Zoo is 0.7 miles away, and the neighborhood streets are beautiful and quiet.

What You Actually Get

Free parking is available on-site — a massive perk in Old Town. Free WiFi (10.0). Each guest bedroom has its own bathroom, plus a communal bathroom on the first floor. A very good breakfast is included. No children allowed. No pets allowed. No smoking anywhere on the premises. Check-in is limited to 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

Choose this if: You value quiet, a perfect Wi-Fi connection, free parking, and an intimate B&B experience in Old Town.

13. Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District Uic

The Vibe

Hampton Inn Medical District scores 9.3 overall with a perfect triple-9.5 across staff, facilities, and cleanliness. Comfort also hits 9.5. The indoor swimming pool, terrace, and fitness center make it feel resort-like despite the medical district location. Guests call it “incredible” and appreciate the proximity to restaurants.

What You Actually Get

Private parking is $30/night plus tax. Good breakfast is included. Pets are allowed with charges. Every room has a microwave. A $100 per day damage deposit is required. The property is a 14-minute walk from the Illinois Medical District. Free WiFi is available in all areas. The indoor pool is a genuine highlight for families.

Choose this if: You need to be near the Medical District and want a consistently clean, well-staffed hotel with an indoor pool.

7. Sleep Inn Midway Airport

The Vibe

Sleep Inn Midway Airport scores 7.6 overall — a functional, reliable pick for Midway travelers. The staff (8.6) and Wi-Fi (8.9) are the standout scores. The free airport shuttle runs 24/7 every 20 minutes, which is the main draw. Free private parking on-site adds value for drivers.

What You Actually Get

Free WiFi with an 8.9 score. Fitness center on-site. Laundry facilities available. Good breakfast is included. Pets are allowed with charges. Note that the property charges for parking despite being a “park & fly” type — it’s listed as “Private Parking Available On Site” but not free. A $300 smoking fee applies.

Choose this if: You have an early flight out of Midway or a late arrival and want a free shuttle and parking.

19. Gateway Inn Oaklawn-Chicago Midway airport

<

19. Gateway Inn Oaklawn-Chicago Midway airport

At a Glance

• Type: Hotel
• Area: Oak Lawn, near Midway Airport 📍 View on map
• Rating: 7.2/10 – Good (200+ reviews)
• Top Score: Staff 8.8/10
• Check-in: From 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
• Cancellation: Varies by room type
• Standout: Free parking & mini-fridge in every room

Guest Scores

• Cleanliness8.1
• Location7.9
• Comfort8.0
• Staff8.8
• Value7.6
• Facilities7.5
• Wi-Fi8.0

The Vibe

Gateway Inn scores 7.2 overall — it’s a no-frills 2-star motel in Oak Lawn, 12 miles from Guaranteed Rate Field. The staff (8.8) is the strongest asset. It’s a budget option near Midway with free parking on-site. Cleanliness scores 8.1 and comfort 8.0, which is respectable for the price tier.

What You Actually Get

Free WiFi scores 8.0. Every room has a fridge and microwave — no stovetops. Free private parking is available on-site. No pool. No pets allowed. A $50 damage deposit is required at check-in. Check-in runs until 11:00 PM. The property is cash-friendly but requires a credit card for the deposit. Check-out opens at 6:00 AM for early departures.

💡 Insider Tip: Call the hotel directly if you need a room same-day — they can often accommodate walk-ins better than the website.

Why We Love It: Free parking and a fridge in every room — the practical budget pick near Midway.

Choose this if: Price is your primary concern and you need free parking near Midway with a fridge and microwave.

✓ Live rate check across booking sites✓ No signup needed

Check Tonight’s Price for Gateway Inn Oaklawn-Chicago Midway airport →

Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks

How We Ranked These Chicago Hotels

Frequently Asked Questions