The days of hostels being shady, unkempt dorm rooms are gone, due in part to companies like Hostelling International and American Youth Hostels, which help keep standards uniform. And they aren’t just for college-aged backpackers. Many hostels offer private family or couple rooms at a slightly higher rate (but still far cheaper than a hotel). Read on to find a list of Chicago hostels.
Hostelling International Chicago
J. Ira & Nicki Harris Family Hostel
24 E. Congress Pkwy., Chicago
312-360-0300; www.hichicago.org
Rate: $29-$35 + $3 for non-HI members (dorm rooms only)
You absolutely won’t find a cheaper place to stay with a better location in Chicago. Centered in the heart of downtown, this hostel is within a few blocks of every el line, a Metra station and countless bus routes. There’s no curfew or age restrictions and the hostel is open every day of the year. There’s free breakfast and wi-fi, plus a volunteer-led event at least once a day. It was also voted the best large hostel in the world in 2006 and 2007 by readers of hostelworld.com. Note: If you are a resident of the 606-- zip code (the city of Chicago), you can’t book a room here, unless you are a member of a group who books with the group sales manager.
Chicago Getaway Hostel
616 W. Arlington Pl., Chicago
773-929-5380; www.getawayhostel.com
Rates: $23-$29 (dorm rooms); $57-$112 (private rooms); student monthly rates begin at $575
Located on Chicago’s North side in Lincoln Park, the Chicago Getaway Hostel offers free breakfast, wi-fi, lockers and computer stations. It’s also close to bars, restaurants, and other nightlife destinations of this busy hot-spot neighborhood. Note: You must live more than 50 miles from Chicago to stay at the Chicago Getaway Hostel.
International House at the University of Chicago
1414 E. 59th St., Chicago
773-753-2270; ihouse.uchicago.edu
Rates: $65 (dorm room); $80 (carpeted guest room); weekly rates available
Ok, the International House isn’t technically a hostel, but it does offer low-priced, overnight accommodations for certain groups of people. Guests must be affiliated with either the University of Chicago or another cultural, educational, or professional institution. I-House offers wi-fi, laundry facilities and an onsite café to guests. Room types include single or double occupancy rooms with a shared or private bathroom.
AAE Chicago Parthenon Inn & Hostel
314 S. Halsted St., Chicago
312-726-2407; www.chicago.aaeworldhotels.com
Rates: $27+ (dorm room); $60.50+ (private room) + $3 linen fee; (you must book online to get these rates)
Located within walking distance of Union Station and Greektown, the Parthenon Inn & Hostel offers free wi-fi and has an onsite restaurant and bar.
Know of another reputable Chicago hostel? Or have you stayed at one of these hostels? Leave a comment!