The 5 Best Hostels in Chicago, USA (Updated 2025)

Chicago is a city that truly has it all, world-class museums, iconic architecture, a vibrant food scene, and stunning lakefront views. For travellers exploring on a budget, finding a comfortable and affordable place to stay is key. This is where the best hostels in Chicago come in, offering a combination of affordability, convenience, and a social atmosphere that makes visiting the Windy City even more enjoyable.

Staying in a hostel can enhance your travel experience in ways that hotels often can’t. Hostels are designed for social interaction, making them a great choice for solo travellers or anyone looking to connect with like-minded adventurers. Chicago’s hostels are known for their friendly vibe, community spaces, and events that encourage guests to mingle and share stories.

Another advantage of Chicago’s hostels is their fantastic locations. Whether you want to explore the downtown area, the artsy side of the city, or experience the nightlife, there’s a hostel perfectly situated to suit your plans. Many are within walking distance of major attractions, making sightseeing a breeze.

Hostels in Chicago aren’t just about shared dorms either. Many offer private rooms for travellers seeking extra privacy while still benefiting from a hostel’s communal vibe and budget-friendly pricing. It’s an option that blends comfort with affordability.

General Information on Hostels in Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city that combines stunning architecture, rich culture, and an exciting food scene. For budget-conscious travellers, hostels in Chicago offer a unique and affordable way to experience the city. With a mix of social spaces, central locations, and modern amenities, hostels cater to both backpackers and casual holidaymakers.

Here are a few things you should consider before booking a hostel in Chicago:

Price - Dorm beds in Chicago hostels typically range from €25 to €55 per night, making them a budget-friendly option for solo travellers. For those who prefer more privacy, private rooms are available and cost between €70 and €160, depending on the hostel and season. Prices include basic amenities and often breakfast.
Location - Chicago’s hostels are well-placed to ensure easy access to the city’s highlights. Many are located in popular areas like the Loop, River North, and Lincoln Park, allowing guests to enjoy local attractions, public transport links, and vibrant nightlife with ease.
Amenities and Services - Most hostels in Chicago are designed to meet the needs of modern travellers, offering free Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, and comfortable communal areas. Many also provide extras like free breakfast, bike rentals, organised tours, and social events, making it easy to explore the city and connect with fellow travellers.
Staff - The staff at Chicago hostels are known for being friendly and helpful, often going out of their way to provide recommendations, assist with travel plans, and ensure a smooth stay. Their local insights and welcoming attitude make them an essential part of the hostel experience.

Best Hostels in Chicago - Quick Answers

Here's a summary of the best hostels in Chicago, organized into different categories:

Overall Best Hostel in Chicago - Chicago Getaway Hostel
Best Cheap Hostel in Chicago - HI Chicago
Best Party Hostel in Chicago - Freehand Chicago
Best Hostel in Chicago for Solo Female Travellers - HI Chicago
Best Hostel in Chicago for Couples - Freehand Chicago
Best Hostel in Chicago for Digital Nomads - HI Chicago

The Best Hostels in Chicago, USA

Here's my comprehensive guide to the 6 best hostels in Chicago:

1. Chicago Getaway Hostel

Located in Chicago's vibrant Lincoln Park neighbourhood, Chicago Getaway Hostel offers a welcoming and social atmosphere for travellers. The hostel is within walking distance of popular attractions like the historic Lincoln Park Zoo and DePaul University, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. Its lively yet relaxed vibe encourages guests to connect through organised events and communal spaces. A standout feature is the complimentary daily breakfast, which includes a cereal bar, fresh fruit, oatmeal, and coffee, providing a great start to the day.

Accommodation options range from mixed dormitories with shared bathrooms to private rooms, some featuring en-suite facilities. Each room is equipped with air conditioning and radiator heating to ensure comfort throughout the year. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi access and daily housekeeping services. The hostel also provides a fully equipped, restaurant-grade kitchen, allowing travellers to prepare their own meals.

Quick Overview of Chicago Getaway Hostel

Complimentary daily breakfast with a variety of options.
Fully equipped communal kitchen for guest use.
Outdoor patio with BBQ facilities.
Bike rentals available for city exploration.
Organised social events, including pub crawls and dinners.
Proximity to public transportation and major attractions.

Dorm beds from €54, Private rooms from €88
Check Prices on Hostelworld!

2. HI Chicago, The J.Ira & Nicki Harris Family Hostel

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, HI Chicago, HI Chicago offers travellers a comfortable and affordable stay. Its prime location provides easy access to major attractions such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the bustling Magnificent Mile. The hostel fosters a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, making it ideal for solo travellers and groups alike. A unique feature is the array of free activities, including guided city tours and outings to live music venues, enhancing the guest experience.

Accommodation options include spacious gender-separated dormitories with 4, 8, or 10 beds, many featuring en-suite bathrooms. Private rooms with shared bathrooms are also available, catering to those seeking more privacy. Each dormitory bed comes with individual lockers for personal belongings, ensuring security and convenience.

Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi throughout the building, self-service laundry facilities, and a fully equipped kitchen for self-catering. The hostel's 24-hour front desk and security provide peace of mind, while the knowledgeable staff are on hand to offer local tips and assistance. The common areas, such as the 2nd-floor lounge with pool and ping pong tables, encourage social interaction among guests.

Quick Overview of HI Chicago

Prime downtown location near major attractions.
Free daily activities, including city tours and live music outings.
Spacious dormitories with en-suite bathroom options.
Fully equipped communal kitchen for guest use.
24-hour front desk and security services.
Eco-friendly initiatives, such as recycling programs and energy conservation efforts.

Dorm beds from €25, Private rooms from €65
Check Prices on Hostelworld!

3. Freehand Chicago

Located in Chicago's lively River North neighbourhood, Freehand Chicago offers a unique blend of boutique hotel style and hostel affordability. Housed in a classic 1927 building, it provides easy access to the city's top art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The atmosphere is both trendy and welcoming, featuring communal spaces that encourage social interaction among guests. A standout feature is the on-site Broken Shaker bar, renowned for its inventive cocktails and relaxed setting.

Accommodation options include shared dormitories and private rooms, all designed by Roman and Williams. Dorms feature comfortable bunk beds with privacy curtains, individual outlets, and reading lights, catering to solo travellers and groups. Private rooms offer a more intimate setting with queen or king beds, en-suite bathrooms, and custom-commissioned artwork.

Guests can enjoy amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, and daily housekeeping. The on-site Café Integral serves Nicaraguan gourmet coffee and creative breakfast dishes, providing a convenient start to the day. The hostel also features a fitness centre and hosts events and programming to enhance the guest experience.

Quick Overview of Freehand Chicago

Award-winning Broken Shaker cocktail bar on-site.
Designer rooms by Roman and Williams.
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.
24-hour front desk and security services.
On-site Café Integral offering gourmet coffee and breakfast.
Fitness centre available for guest use.

Dorm beds from €33, Private rooms from €83
Check Prices on Hostelworld!

4. Stay 424

Located in Chicago's artistic Wicker Park neighbourhood, Stay 424 offers travellers a unique blend of classic hostel charm and modern creativity. The hostel fosters a warm, welcoming atmosphere, encouraging guests to connect, work, and explore together. Its relaxed vibe, free from unnecessary rules, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a comfortable and community-focused stay.

Accommodation options include cosy private rooms and clean, safe dormitories. Each space is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and practicality, ensuring a restful stay. Guests have access to a shared kitchen, allowing for meal preparation and fostering a communal dining experience.

The hostel features a rooftop deck, perfect for relaxing and socialising while enjoying city views. Additional amenities include a fully equipped podcast room and a professional photo studio, catering to creative travellers. The on-site restaurant offers convenient dining options, and the communal lounge provides a space to unwind and connect with fellow guests.

Quick Overview of Stay 424

Rooftop deck with city views.
Fully equipped podcast room.
Professional photo studio.
On-site restaurant offering diverse cuisine.
Communal lounge for socialising and relaxation.
Located in the vibrant Wicker Park neighbourhood.

Dorm beds from €40, Private rooms from €42
Check Prices on Hostelworld!

5. Wrigley Hostel

Located in Chicago's lively Wrigleyville neighbourhood, Wrigley Hostel offers travellers a vibrant and social atmosphere. Just steps away from the iconic Wrigley Field, it provides easy access to the city's renowned sports culture and bustling nightlife. The hostel fosters a friendly environment, encouraging guests to connect through communal spaces and organised events. A standout feature is the outdoor deck, perfect for barbecues and social gatherings.

Accommodation options include private rooms, mixed dormitories, and female-only dorms, catering to various preferences. Each room is equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests have access to lockers for secure storage of personal belongings.

The hostel boasts a fully equipped kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. The common room features a dartboard, pool table, and a bar area, enhancing the social experience. Additional amenities include laundry facilities and complimentary breakfast, providing convenience and value for travellers.

Quick Overview of Wrigley Hostel

Proximity to Wrigley Field and public transportation.
Outdoor deck with barbecue facilities.
Fully equipped communal kitchen.
Common room with entertainment options.
Complimentary breakfast.

Dorm beds from €29, Private rooms from €152
Check Prices on Hostelworld!

Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Chicago

Choosing the best hostels in Chicago allows you to experience this vibrant city without straining your budget. With their excellent locations, affordable pricing, and welcoming atmospheres, Chicago’s hostels cater to a variety of travellers. Whether you’re a backpacker, a solo explorer, or travelling in a group, they offer a great base to immerse yourself in the city’s energy.

Hostels in Chicago are more than just a place to sleep. They provide opportunities to connect with other travellers, participate in social events, and get insider tips from friendly staff. This sense of community adds a unique layer to your travel experience, making your visit to Chicago more memorable.

From the iconic skyline to the cultural attractions, Chicago is a city of endless discovery. Staying in a hostel gives you the flexibility to explore its diverse neighbourhoods, try its famous deep-dish pizza, and take in its music and art scenes, all while keeping your costs low.

Whether you want to stay close to downtown’s hustle or relax in quieter neighbourhoods like Lincoln Park, there’s a hostel to match your preferences. Affordable, friendly, and conveniently located, Chicago’s hostels make it easy to experience the city at its best.

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