Step into Chinatown, Chicago, and feel like you've stepped into another world—red lanterns hang high, the air is thick with the scent of steaming dumplings, and an elderly man teaches kids to write Chinese calligraphy by the corner. It’s more than a cultural enclave; it’s a warm, living mosaic of diversity. Come here not just for photos, but for a journey that feeds both your soul and your stomach.




















Everything you need to know about Chinatown
The Westin Chicago River North is a top choice, located just a 10-minute walk from Chicago's Chinatown. It offers unparalleled views of the Chicago River and connects seamlessly to the city’s public transit system. Nearby, you’ll find authentic Chinese restaurants, cultural shops, and the annual Lunar New Year Festival. The hotel also features a luxury spa and rooftop bar, making it an ideal base for exploring both urban culture and traditional Chinese heritage.
Staying at Conrad Chicago near Chinatown gives you quick access to major sights via the Blue Line or Red Line trains from the Clark/Lake station—just a 30-minute ride to Millennium Park and Cloud Gate. The hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to key tourist zones, eliminating travel stress. You can effortlessly explore art galleries, museums, and downtown landmarks, all while enjoying the convenience of being nestled within a vibrant cultural neighborhood.
Don’t miss the annual Lunar New Year Festival, featuring dragon dances, lantern displays, and authentic street food. Visit the Chicago Chinese Cultural Center to explore historical exhibits and contemporary art installations. On weekends, join calligraphy workshops or Hanfu experience events that offer immersive insights into Chinese traditions. These activities highlight the area’s rich cultural tapestry and provide unforgettable moments of cross-cultural connection.
Yes, Marriott Chicago Downtown is perfect for families, offering family suites, a kids’ playroom, and 24/7 concierge service. Located steps from Chinatown, it provides free breakfast and curated family guides. Walkable to the Chicago Riverwalk and Children’s Museum of Chicago, the hotel ensures fun and safety for young travelers. Nearby attractions like Museum of Science and Industry make it ideal for educational and entertaining outings for all ages.
Evenings in Chicago’s Chinatown come alive with the Night Lantern Festival at Sullivans Square Park, showcasing intricate Chinese lanterns and light shows. Enjoy hot street food like steamed dumplings and crispy spring rolls under glowing neon signs. For a different perspective, take a night river cruise along the Chicago River to view the illuminated skyline, including the United Center and Chinatown’s historic facades, creating a magical blend of modernity and tradition.
Start your day with a morning stroll through Chinatown’s historic streets, savoring fresh shrimp dumplings and sweet red bean buns. Visit the Chinese Cultural Center for exhibitions on Chinese history and art. In the afternoon, participate in a tea ceremony workshop or browse specialty shops for souvenirs. End the day at Millennium Park, photograph the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, then return to Chinatown Night Market for dinner. This seamless blend of traditional customs and urban exploration delivers a deeply enriching cultural journey.
The Dearborn Hotel is a top choice for travelers seeking proximity to Chicago's Chinatown. Located just a 10-minute walk away, this historic boutique hotel offers elegant rooms blending modern comfort with classic architecture. Some suites feature panoramic views of the Lake Michigan skyline and the city’s iconic buildings. The hotel provides convenient access to the CTA Red Line, making it easy to explore nearby cultural landmarks, bustling food markets, and annual Lunar New Year celebrations. With upscale dining options on-site and a vibrant neighborhood full of authentic Chinese restaurants and artisan shops, it’s an ideal base for experiencing authentic Chicago Chinatown life.
From Chicago's Chinatown, take the CTA Red Line at the Washington station to reach key destinations like Millennium Park or the Art Institute of Chicago in just 15 minutes. For a scenic alternative, walk south along Michigan Avenue—a 20-minute stroll leading directly to Millennium Park, where you’ll find the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Additionally, the Chicago River Boat Tours depart from nearby docks, offering a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and historic architecture. These options provide flexible, efficient access to top attractions, perfect for a day trip centered around culture, art, and urban exploration.
Visitors to Chicago's Chinatown should not miss the annual Lunar New Year Festival, featuring vibrant dragon dances, traditional performances, and craft markets. Explore the Chinese Cultural Center to learn about Chinese-American history and view rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. Savor authentic flavors at renowned eateries like Wu's Kitchen and Lucky Dragon Restaurant, known for their expertly prepared Sichuan dishes, Cantonese dim sum, and Shanghai xiaolongbao. In the evening, stroll along Cermak Avenue beneath illuminated Chinese-style archways and bustling storefronts—perfect for soaking in the neighborhood’s rich cultural atmosphere and vibrant street energy.
Hyatt House Chicago Downtown is an excellent family-friendly option located just a 15-minute drive from Chicago's Chinatown. It offers complimentary breakfast, spacious family suites, and kid-friendly amenities including an indoor pool, fitness center, and generous common areas ideal for family gatherings. The hotel is close to Grant Park and Lake Michigan, providing safe walking paths perfect for strolls or biking with children. With a convenience store on-site, multilingual staff, and easy access to the CTA subway station, families can effortlessly explore museums, theaters, and other attractions across downtown Chicago—making it a practical and comfortable base for multi-generational travel.
No, staying near Chicago's Chinatown enhances your travel experience due to its central location. The area is within walking distance of major attractions like Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago. With multiple CTA subway stations and bus stops nearby, getting around the city is fast and convenient. Many local restaurants, souvenir shops, and cultural events are also within a short stroll, allowing for efficient daily planning. Its prime position makes it an ideal base for exploring both urban highlights and authentic neighborhood life without compromising schedule flexibility or accessibility.
See what other travelers say about Chinatown

Staying at Hotel Felix in Chicago's North Loop was a great experience. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the train station, making it super convenient to explore downtown and the Magnificent Mile. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, so dining options are never an issue. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The only downside was a plumbing issue on our last day, which meant we had to take a cold shower—minor inconvenience, but nothing major. Overall, the hotel offers excellent value, clean rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.

Staying at Hotel Lincoln was an absolute delight. The lake-view room offered breathtaking views of the water—just opening the curtains in the morning felt like a little escape. Right outside the hotel, a short walk across the street leads straight to Lincoln Park and the Museum of History, making it incredibly convenient for exploring without needing transportation. The neighborhood is quiet yet vibrant, with plenty of dining options nearby. The location, comfort, and overall experience made this stay unforgettable. Highly recommend this gem in Chicago.

Staying at The Midland Hotel was an absolute delight! Located just a short walk from downtown Chicago, the hotel offers unbeatable convenience—everything from shopping to dining is within easy reach. The lobby has a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe, and the staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. Our room was spotless, spacious, and beautifully appointed with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The bathroom was modern and well-equipped, with strong water pressure and a refreshing shower experience. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, delicious, and offered a great variety of options. What stood out most was the excellent value for money. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers on every level. I’d definitely recommend it and will be returning soon.

Staying at Freehand Chicago was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown, with easy access to public transit and all the major attractions just a short walk away. The vibe of the hotel is cool and modern, with a great mix of comfort and style. While the rooms are on the smaller side, they’re thoughtfully designed and make excellent use of space—plus, everything you need is included. It’s such a smart choice for travelers who value convenience and atmosphere without breaking the bank. I couldn’t be happier with my stay and would definitely come back again.

Staying at The Chicago Hotel Collection - Ambassador Gold Coast was a fantastic experience overall. The room was spacious and immaculately clean, offering plenty of comfort for a relaxing stay. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk to downtown Chicago, with shops, cafes, and restaurants right on the doorstep. I loved how close it was to a local Starbucks too, perfect for that morning coffee fix without having to go far. The neighborhood feels safe, quiet, and well-connected, making it ideal whether you're exploring the city or just unwinding after a long day. Great value, excellent service, and a prime spot—definitely planning to come back.

The staff at the hotel—Raymond, Alex, George, and Alston—were absolutely outstanding. From the moment I arrived, their professionalism and genuine warmth made me feel right at home. They went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect during my stay. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from the Magnificent Mile, with easy access to shopping, dining, and attractions. I’m already planning my next visit and would highly recommend this hotel to anyone traveling to Chicago. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the Magnificent Mile, making it super convenient for shopping and sightseeing. The room was clean, spacious, and comfortable, with a great bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. I especially loved the breakfast—my favorite was the oatmeal, perfectly cooked and served warm with fresh fruit and toast. It felt like a homey touch that started the day right. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout. For the quality, price, and convenience, this place is unbeatable. I’ll definitely be returning on my next trip to Chicago!

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight—my parents and younger sister were all thoroughly impressed! The front desk staff were incredibly helpful, offering free luggage storage, which made our arrival so much smoother. The room itself was spacious and comfortable, with the added bonus of a built-in drinking water dispenser—no need to buy bottled water anymore. Best of all, it’s just a short walk from the lake and the scenic Magnificent Mile, making evening strolls absolutely perfect. The location is unbeatable, and the overall experience was top-notch. Highly recommend this hotel for families looking for comfort, convenience, and a great vibe in downtown Chicago.

Staying at the Best Western River North Hotel during my business trip to Chicago was a fantastic choice. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-in smooth and stress-free. What stood out most was the neighborhood's safety—walking around day or night felt completely secure, which is rare in many urban areas. The location is unbeatable: everything downtown, from attractions to restaurants and shops, is just a short walk away. I appreciated how convenient it was for exploring the city without relying on taxis or long commutes. Plus, the value for money is outstanding—comfortable rooms, excellent service, and a great central spot all at a reasonable price. Definitely a top pick for future trips to Chicago.

I completely disagree with some of the negative reviews—this place is better than expected! We stayed in a spacious, recently renovated room with a ceiling fan and air conditioning, making it super comfortable. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the interior design has a modern, stylish vibe. There's also a shared kitchen available for guests, which is great if you want to prepare your own meals. Plus, the Magnificent Mile is just a 5-minute walk away—perfect for shopping and dining. Overall, the location, cleanliness, and value make this a solid choice for travelers looking for a convenient and pleasant stay in Chicago.

I’ll admit I was pretty skeptical about staying here after reading a bunch of negative reviews, especially those warning about hidden fees and cleanliness issues. But honestly, my experience completely changed my mind. From the moment we arrived, everything felt clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed—the hotel’s aesthetic is cohesive and stylish. Check-in was quick and smooth, and the front desk staff were genuinely helpful, answering all our questions, including ones about the fees listed on the website. While some guests complain about 'hidden' charges, they’re actually disclosed upfront—just not always easy to spot. If you read the fine print carefully during booking and check-in, there are no surprises. Our room was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for hanging clothes and multiple hangers. The locker-style closets matched the sporty, contemporary vibe perfectly. Floors and bathrooms were clean overall, though I did notice a spider in the shower corner—nothing alarming, just something to mention. Downstairs, there’s an open kitchen with a shared fridge and even a slow cooker—a nice touch! There are also fun games like ping pong and air hockey, making it great for couples or families. Free drinks are available, which is a welcome bonus. If noise from passing trains is a concern, I’d recommend asking for a room farther down the hall on the first floor. We were lucky—we stayed in a quiet area, barely noticed any train sounds (more like soft white noise), but earplugs might still help if you’re a light sleeper. Overall, I’d highly recommend this place. It’s well-located, the design stands out, and the stay was enjoyable. Just be aware of the $120 refundable deposit and the $50 guest fee—knowing these ahead of time makes a big difference. I’m genuinely grateful for the positive experience and would definitely come back.

The room felt outdated, and the furniture was extremely uncomfortable—hard to relax in. The air conditioner made a loud, disruptive noise, almost like an unbalanced washing machine running nonstop. We had to check out early due to schedule changes, but the front desk refused to accommodate us, claiming we’d have to pay a fee because we weren’t gold members—despite being silver members. That policy felt unfair and frustrating. Overall, the experience didn’t match expectations, especially given the price. Poor service, subpar amenities, and lack of flexibility make this stay far from recommended.
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