7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don’t Skimp on Style or Location

7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Hotel Julian Chicago's Art Deco charm and prime Michigan Avenue location

The Hotel Julian, housed within the historic Atlantic Bank Building on Michigan Avenue, seamlessly blends Art Deco elegance with a prime location in the heart of Chicago. This former bank building offers a glimpse into the city's architectural past while simultaneously providing a stylish, contemporary stay. Its enviable address on Michigan Avenue puts guests within easy reach of renowned cultural destinations, such as Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center. The hotel itself offers a curated selection of 228 guest rooms, each thoughtfully designed to meld contemporary comforts with nods to Art Deco and mid-century modern aesthetics. Throughout the hotel, you'll encounter a blend of the old and new—exposed brick and mismatched furniture create inviting and distinctive communal spaces. While the hotel can be quite pricey during the high season, its allure lies in the stylish and convenient environment that it provides. This combination of sophisticated style and convenient location makes it a compelling choice for value-oriented travelers seeking a memorable stay in the Windy City.

The Hotel Julian, nestled within the original Atlantic Bank Building on Michigan Avenue, embodies the elegance of Art Deco. This architectural style, born in the early 20th century, is evident in the building's geometric forms, vibrant colors, and use of luxurious materials, mirroring the era's embrace of innovation and luxury. Its location on Michigan Avenue places it steps away from the bustling Magnificent Mile, offering effortless access to a concentration of Chicago's shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, reducing reliance on more expensive transport options.

The hotel, originally constructed in 1928 during Chicago's economic flourishing, reflects a clear demand for luxurious accommodations, showcasing how the enduring appeal of Art Deco remains prominent in hotel design. While the hotel has recently been rebranded as Arlo Chicago, it preserves its inherent charm and amenities. It boasts 228 guest rooms, tastefully designed with contemporary decor interspersed with subtle Art Deco and mid-century modern accents, delivering a chic boutique hotel experience in the heart of the city.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Hotel Julian offers a thoughtful balance of history and modern sensibilities. The public spaces, for instance, are cleverly curated with a combination of exposed brickwork, eclectic furnishings, and a playful arrangement of lights, creating an inviting atmosphere. Although its location is a major draw, one may find prices fluctuating considerably, potentially hitting as high as $600 during peak periods. Its exceptional location score of 96 confirms its desirable position within the city. The reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor, averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars based on nearly 650 traveler reviews, and ranking 29th out of 216 Chicago hotels, show it remains a sought-after, budget-friendly accommodation, particularly for guests seeking a blend of location and style within Chicago's diverse hotel offerings.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Hotel Julian Chicago's Art Deco charm and prime Michigan Avenue location
2. 7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Thompson Chicago's sleek design and Gold Coast neighborhood appeal
3. 7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Ace Hotel Chicago's West Loop industrial chic and rooftop bar
4. 7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - The Hoxton Chicago's Fulton Market address and mid-century modern aesthetics
5. 7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Hotel Essex Chicago's South Loop convenience and contemporary rooms
6. 7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago's central business district setting and minimalist decor
7. 7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Virgin Hotels Chicago's hip River North vibe and innovative room layouts

7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Thompson Chicago's sleek design and Gold Coast neighborhood appeal

The Thompson Chicago in the Gold Coast neighborhood stands out for its sleek and modern design, a welcome change in a neighborhood known for its grand historic architecture. This hotel offers a contemporary take on luxury, evident in the 247 guest rooms and suites featuring high-end amenities like premium linens and rainfall showers. While the hotel clearly targets upscale travelers, it also offers a relatively accessible price point with rates beginning around $144, a refreshing change compared to some Gold Coast options.

The Gold Coast's charm is undeniable, with its mix of historic homes and chic high-rises. This unique blend extends to the hotel and the neighborhood, offering a wide range of experiences, from world-class dining including Michelin-starred restaurants, to the more accessible art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The hotel's sleek design combined with its service and location has earned positive reviews, making it a favored choice for a variety of travelers, from couples enjoying a romantic getaway to business travelers requiring a sophisticated base. It's a well-regarded option that successfully blends stylish design with the Gold Coast's refined character.

Thompson Chicago, nestled within the Gold Coast neighborhood, is a testament to sleek, modern design. Its glass-heavy façade, a hallmark of contemporary architecture, lets in plenty of natural light and offers captivating views of the surrounding cityscape and Lake Michigan. This approach, prioritizing transparency, seems to be more than just aesthetic; researchers have noted a link between natural light and a better sense of well-being, an important consideration for any hotel aiming for a premium experience.


Inside, the hotel utilizes a mix of natural materials, including warm woods and high-quality fabrics, creating a calming and visually engaging ambiance. This is not just about aesthetics; it seems interior design elements, if thoughtfully considered, can have a real impact on guest satisfaction and help create a relaxing environment. This is especially critical given the highly competitive nature of luxury accommodations.


The hotel’s location within the Gold Coast is telling. This part of the city is a fascinating mix of older, more ornate structures and newer high-rises, showcasing the city’s architectural evolution over decades. The neighborhood has changed considerably over time, indicating a dynamic interplay between urban planning and shifting population characteristics.


Thompson Chicago's rooftop lounge with its sweeping views utilizes principles of what some call "biophilic design"—a concept that emphasizes the connection between nature and our built environments. There’s growing evidence that access to visual aspects of nature can be beneficial to mental health, a concept becoming increasingly integrated into hotel design, particularly in metropolitan areas where access to open green space may be more limited.

While the Gold Coast is known for high-end residences, the area offers a wealth of attractions beyond luxury housing. Its proximity to art institutions like the Museum of Contemporary Art and recreational spaces like Oak Street Beach suggests the location is not just convenient for leisure pursuits but also provides an opportunity to access diverse cultural experiences without needing to travel far. This factor can heavily influence a guest's overall impression of a hotel.


Thompson Chicago cleverly designed some of its public spaces to serve multiple functions—lounges that can transition into impromptu meeting spaces. In an era where urban areas are increasingly dense, this kind of multifunctional design can improve social interaction and reduce the demand for dedicated, sometimes underutilized, spaces.


The hotel's proximity to the Lakefront Trail, a popular spot for cyclists and walkers, is another example of its well-considered design. Studies indicate a relationship between access to outdoor activities and enhanced mental well-being. Hotels, particularly in dense urban environments, could enhance guest satisfaction by providing convenient access to opportunities to experience nature or to remain physically active.


Technology integration is another notable feature of the Thompson experience. A dedicated mobile app allows guests to personalize their stay, manage their accounts, and easily check in/out. In the modern travel landscape, hotel chains that make the most of technology seem to have a distinct advantage when it comes to meeting evolving customer expectations.


The building's architectural style clearly echoes modernist principles—emphasizing clean lines and function over superfluous ornamentation. This not only results in a visually appealing structure but could also lead to lower maintenance costs over time, showcasing a pragmatic approach to design.


Thompson Chicago, located within one of Chicago’s wealthiest neighborhoods, stands out as a premium hotel designed with affordability in mind. The Gold Coast is a unique area, as it features housing that accommodates a variety of socioeconomic groups—from luxury residences to more modest apartments. This suggests that the ability to design high-end facilities without alienating a larger demographic might be a powerful tool for both designers and hotel operators.

7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Ace Hotel Chicago's West Loop industrial chic and rooftop bar

Nestled within Chicago's West Loop, the Ace Hotel stands apart with its industrial-chic style, blending a contemporary aesthetic with a unique local flavor. The hotel's rooftop bar, formerly known as Waydown and now rebranded as Little Wild, offers a lively scene with panoramic views of the city skyline. It's a spot where guests can enjoy nightly music and a straightforward cocktail selection. Room choices vary from smaller, standard options to more expansive loft and suite accommodations. Prices start around $179, making it a solid value in a neighborhood filled with predictable chain hotels. The hotel has earned solid reviews, earning it a top spot among Chicago's hotels, and reflecting the artistic spirit prevalent in the area. The Ace Hotel seems to successfully capture the West Loop's energy, offering an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting something beyond the ordinary.

Ace Hotel Chicago, nestled within the West Loop, is a prime example of how a former industrial space can be repurposed into a stylish, modern hotel. This neighborhood, once a hub for Chicago's meatpacking industry, has seen a significant shift towards a more trendy, upscale vibe, with the Ace Hotel as a key player in this evolution. Located in a building dating back to the early 20th century, the hotel embraces an industrial chic design that blends historical elements with contemporary touches.

One of the hotel's most popular features is the rooftop bar, currently known as Little Wild, a recent rebranding of Waydown. This outdoor space, with its open design, offers stunning views of the downtown skyline while seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor experiences. It's a space designed to facilitate social interaction, offering a mix of music and a thoughtfully curated drink menu that avoids overly elaborate concoctions. The bar operates from late afternoon into the early morning hours, making it a popular spot for both hotel guests and the local crowd.

The hotel's room options range from smaller, more compact accommodations to larger lofts and suites, all maintaining the hotel's signature design aesthetic. The smallest rooms are about 315 square feet—a typical size in a city hotel focused on design rather than maximizing space. A few suites even include private kitchenettes and terraces, providing guests with a sense of spaciousness.

Rates at the Ace Hotel start around $179, a price point that makes it a good value compared to many other hotels in the area, particularly those in comparable locations or with a similar design style. It's worth noting that this was the first Ace Hotel to open in the Midwest, showcasing the chain's commitment to adapting its brand to local character. Ace Hotel Chicago has garnered positive reviews, consistently scoring high on major travel platforms like TripAdvisor and Booking.com, earning praise for its unique ambiance and well-situated location. It's a popular spot for travelers seeking an alternative to the many chain hotels in the area, showcasing a distinctive personality that aligns with the vibrant energy of the West Loop.


The hotel's integration of local art throughout its spaces, particularly noticeable in public areas, is a deliberate effort to tie the hotel's aesthetic to the neighborhood's creative energy. While design choices like the use of local artwork are often cited as attempts to create a more genuine feel for visitors, whether this truly fosters an immersive local experience is debatable, especially given the gentrification discussion surrounding the West Loop's transformation.

7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - The Hoxton Chicago's Fulton Market address and mid-century modern aesthetics

The Hoxton Chicago, situated in the dynamic Fulton Market neighborhood at 200 N Green Street, seamlessly blends mid-century modern design with a budget-friendly approach to hospitality. Established in 2019, this hotel from a London-based group offers 182 rooms, each showcasing a clever fusion of industrial elements and cozy comfort. You'll find touches like large warehouse-style windows and raw concrete ceilings, giving the hotel a distinct look. The interiors don't shy away from design details, incorporating leather headboards, mid-century furniture, and even bedding designed by a local Chicago artist. All these design choices aim to create a guest experience that feels both stylish and relaxed. Adding to the appeal is the location within Fulton Market, a neighborhood that has become a center for restaurants and creative spaces. The Hoxton, with its own collection of restaurants and bars, embraces a community feel, hoping to draw not just guests but also locals into its spaces. For budget-conscious travelers seeking a distinctive design-focused stay in the heart of Chicago's revitalized meatpacking district, The Hoxton presents a compelling option.

### The Hoxton Chicago: Fulton Market's Mid-Century Modern Oasis

The Hoxton Chicago, situated at 200 N Green Street in Chicago's Fulton Market District, stands as an intriguing example of how a former industrial space can be transformed into a stylish, modern hotel. This London-based hotel chain, with its seventh location here, opened its doors in 2019. It's noteworthy that the building itself has roots in the early 20th century, originally serving the area's bustling meatpacking industry. This repurposing, or adaptive reuse, is a trend gaining traction in urban areas as cities try to maintain the historical integrity of their older structures while introducing new uses.

The hotel's interior is heavily influenced by mid-century modern design principles. This aesthetic movement emphasizes clean lines, natural materials, and the merging of indoor and outdoor spaces. The Hoxton's design achieves this by employing large warehouse-style windows that bring in abundant natural light, as well as unfinished concrete ceilings and panelled leather headboards. Interestingly, these design elements align with research showing a connection between natural light and a sense of well-being, a potential factor that could contribute to guest satisfaction.

The 182 rooms at The Hoxton, categorized as Snug, Cozy, or Roomy, aim to provide a sense of comfort, almost emulating a homely ambiance. It's interesting they are furnished with mid-century furniture and bedding designed in collaboration with Chicago artist Cody Hudson, an attempt to inject a local flavour into the interior design. It's an interesting choice to pair these specific furnishings and artwork with a design aesthetic originating in a different era.

The Hoxton doesn't just focus on guest rooms. It has a variety of food and drink options, encompassing two restaurants and three bars, catering to both hotel guests and local residents. There’s a conscious attempt to cultivate a social environment that blends hospitality with flexible spaces that could function as coworking areas.

Its location in Fulton Market is, perhaps, the strongest aspect of the hotel. The area is a flourishing hub of restaurants, bars, and artistic spaces. It's a prime example of the recent gentrification trends that have swept through Chicago and many other cities, revitalizing neighborhoods once dominated by industry. This context gives the Hoxton a unique selling point, particularly for guests who are seeking a base close to both modern amenities and the city's evolving artistic and culinary scene.

Fulton Market's history as a hub of the city's meatpacking industry has been reimagined as a vibrant cultural district. The Hoxton contributes to this ongoing story of urban evolution, becoming a landmark in the area's transformation. The juxtaposition of the hotel’s modern, mid-century inspired aesthetics against the older, more industrial architecture is a fascinating aspect of the neighborhood, offering a tangible conversation between Chicago's past and its present. Whether this approach represents a genuine connection to the local character or simply leverages the current cultural buzz remains to be fully explored, but its strategy undoubtedly draws a certain type of visitor.

7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Hotel Essex Chicago's South Loop convenience and contemporary rooms

The Hotel Essex, nestled within Chicago's dynamic South Loop, combines a practical location with modern, comfortable rooms. Its proximity to attractions like Grant Park and the Art Institute makes exploring the city's cultural highlights effortless. The hotel provides a contemporary lodging experience with rooms, some offering glimpses of Lake Michigan. Amenities like free Wi-Fi and a fitness center are part of the package. At an average price point around $269 a night, it's a reasonably priced option in a city known for its high hotel costs. Guest feedback suggests the staff is friendly, and the rooms are clean, reinforcing the hotel's appeal to those seeking a balance of convenience and value in a central location. While it might not be the most luxurious choice, the Essex does offer a functional and pleasant stay for a range of travelers. The location is arguably the strongest draw, making it easy to explore the South Loop's various attractions. The fitness center has garnered positive feedback, proving useful for guests who want to keep up with their exercise routines. But, it's not without limitations: the number of rooms is limited and the view from all rooms is not necessarily something that every guest will appreciate. While it is a good option for a comfortable stay with easy access to the city's cultural offerings, it's important to consider that other options within the same price range may provide a richer and more distinctive experience.

**Hotel Essex Chicago: South Loop Convenience and Contemporary Rooms**


The Hotel Essex, also known as the Le Meridien Essex Chicago, sits at 800 South Michigan Avenue, nestled in Chicago's South Loop. Its position offers good access to popular landmarks like Grant Park and the Art Institute, making it a decent choice for those wanting to be close to the action. This 4-star business-friendly hotel offers standard amenities like free Wi-Fi, room service, and a 24-hour fitness facility, appealing to the modern traveler. It has 254 rooms in total, with some offering views of Lake Michigan—a potentially appealing feature.


Guest feedback suggests they generally appreciate the hotel's staff, the cleanliness of the rooms, and the overall service levels. The pricing, around $269 per night, seems competitive when compared to the broader Chicago hotel market. Interestingly, reviews often highlight the hotel's terrace offering city vistas, and its close proximity to the Museum Campus, just 2.3 km away. The hotel’s fitness center also draws positive feedback, perhaps reflecting a growing trend in guests valuing this amenity.


According to guest reviews, it's ranked 18th out of 212 hotels in Chicago. It also features an on-site restaurant, appealing to both tourists and business travelers. Its convenient location and standard amenities seem to meet the needs of a varied clientele. However, while the hotel does have features some might find appealing, its relatively average ranking in the Chicago hotel landscape suggests that, although it's a solid choice, it might not stand out among the competition in terms of uniqueness or its ability to create a truly exceptional guest experience.

7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago's central business district setting and minimalist decor

The Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago is conveniently positioned in the heart of Chicago's bustling central business district, putting guests within easy reach of numerous attractions. Within a short stroll, you'll find popular shopping streets like State Street and cultural gems such as the Art Institute of Chicago. The hotel's design embraces a minimalist aesthetic, highlighting simple lines and functionality. While this design choice creates a sense of spaciousness and serenity in the guest rooms and suites, some might find it a bit too stark or impersonal. However, the hotel does provide useful amenities like free Wi-Fi throughout the property and a fitness center. The hotel's rooftop space adds a welcome element of openness to the experience, offering a pleasant break from the city buzz. Guest feedback has been somewhat mixed, with some finding the decor to be too plain. Yet, the hotel's central location and streamlined style still makes it a competitive choice for budget-oriented travelers in Chicago who value a stylish and efficient stay.

Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago is strategically positioned in the heart of the city's central business district, placing it close to significant areas like the Theater District. Its minimalist design approach prioritizes clean lines and functionality, a design concept that has shown potential for improving guest well-being by creating a sense of calm. Interestingly, this building previously served as a center for the Chicago School of Architecture, highlighting a link between the hotel's modern design and the city's rich architectural past.

Business travelers will appreciate the hotel's ample meeting space, which is equipped for modern conferences and presentations, and may help productivity. The hotel also integrates technology into the guest experience, providing easy ways to check-in using mobile devices and control features in rooms using smart technology. A growing number of guests are looking for hotels that embrace technology. Depending on the room, guests can enjoy expansive views of Chicago's iconic skyline, including the Willis Tower, which some studies suggest can positively impact mood and relaxation.

The hotel includes restaurants and bars that showcase local flavors, reflecting a rising trend of travelers looking for experiences that are connected to the culinary character of a city. Transportation is a breeze with good connections to Chicago's public transport system, making it easy for guests to access various attractions. The hotel incorporates art and design elements with Chicago themes, potentially improving guest interaction and enjoyment. Furthermore, the hotel embraces wellness by offering a fitness center, indicating that it aims to accommodate a growing number of guests who prioritize staying active while traveling. While the minimalist aesthetic might not suit all tastes, the hotel's location, amenities, and focus on technology and local flavor makes it a suitable choice for business and leisure travelers wanting a convenient base from which to experience Chicago.

7 Affordable Chicago Hotels That Don't Skimp on Style or Location - Virgin Hotels Chicago's hip River North vibe and innovative room layouts

Virgin Hotels Chicago, nestled in the energetic River North neighborhood, brings a cool and modern vibe to the Chicago hotel scene, making it a tempting option for budget-conscious travelers who still appreciate a touch of style. The hotel's unique room designs feature a clever split between living and sleeping areas, using partitions to provide a sense of privacy and a homey feel—a departure from standard hotel room layouts. Throw in luxurious features like unique beds and spacious walk-in showers, and you've got a winning combination for a comfortable stay. Beyond the rooms, the hotel offers a selection of food and drink options, including a rooftop bar, attracting both guests and Chicago locals with its lively atmosphere and creative menus. And with its prime location near popular spots like the Chicago Riverwalk, it makes it an easy base to explore the city without breaking the bank. In a city brimming with hotels, Virgin Hotels manages to combine a hip and innovative approach with a reasonable price tag, making it a noteworthy choice in the Chicago hotel landscape.

Virgin Hotels Chicago, situated in the bustling River North district, stands out for its unique approach to room design and the overall atmosphere it cultivates. The hotel's rooms, dubbed "Chambers," offer a refreshing departure from conventional hotel layouts. These spaces intelligently integrate separate sleeping, living, and working areas, creating a flexible and home-like environment. Guests consistently highlight the comfort of the patented beds and the roomy walk-in showers, demonstrating the hotel's attention to detail.

The hotel's commitment to local flavour is also noteworthy. The dining options are more than just hotel fare, featuring in-house restaurants that source inspiration from local cuisine, a move that aims to blend the hotel's experience with the vibrant culinary culture of the neighborhood. The rooftop bar adds a layer of excitement, offering stunning city views and hosting events that cater to both leisure and business travellers.

The hotel has been consistently praised in reviews for its modern amenities, such as complimentary Wi-Fi and the ever-popular rooftop terrace, and also has secured high rankings in overall guest satisfaction surveys like TripAdvisor. Its location in River North provides easy access to the Chicago Riverwalk and Millennium Park, enhancing the experience for those seeking a blend of leisure and urban exploration.


Despite being classified as a luxury hotel, Virgin Hotels Chicago has made strides to provide a range of experiences for a wider audience through its pricing approach and innovative features. The multiple accolades, including selections in Cond Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice Awards for several years, suggest the hotel has successfully balanced upscale offerings with a broader appeal to travelers interested in more than just a standard hotel stay. However, the long-term consequences of some design choices, like the layout of bathroom spaces, need to be assessed over time to see if they truly meet the needs of a broad range of guests. Nevertheless, Virgin Hotels Chicago presents a unique alternative in Chicago's diverse hotel market, demonstrating that luxury accommodations don't have to sacrifice functionality, comfort or affordability for a stylish experience.