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

I stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC and was thoroughly impressed with my experience. The room was spacious and well-designed, offering plenty of comfort for a relaxing stay. The breakfast buffet was excellent—fresh, varied, and delicious, especially the hot options. While parking comes at an additional cost, it’s worth it given how close the hotel is to downtown Chicago and major medical facilities. The fitness center is large and well-equipped, and having a pool on-site is a nice bonus for those who want to unwind after a long day. One thing to note is that daily housekeeping isn’t provided, so I’d recommend bringing your own essentials if you’re staying longer. Overall, this hotel offers great value, convenience, and a clean, modern atmosphere. I’d definitely return and highly recommend it to travelers looking for a reliable, no-frills stay in the area.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the Starbucks flagship store, Chicago Riverwalk, Navy Pier, art museums, and Willis Tower. Everything you’d want to see or do is within easy reach, whether on foot or with a quick ride. The breakfast buffet was fantastic—plenty of hot and cold options, all fresh and well-prepared. I also discovered a nearby restaurant called Ming Xuan, which serves delicious Chinese food that’s worth a visit. The whole experience felt seamless, convenient, and enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone visiting downtown Chicago.

I can't recommend this Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile enough. The location is unbeatable—right across from Trader Joe's, so grocery shopping is a breeze. It's just a 7-8 minute walk to Trump Tower, and less than 20 minutes to Millennium Park. From there, it's only a few more minutes to the shores of Lake Michigan—perfect for a relaxing evening stroll. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We arrived at 10 AM, and even though check-in wasn't available yet, they gladly stored our luggage at no extra cost. When we returned around 2:30 PM, we were told to wait about 25 minutes. But instead of leaving us waiting in limbo, the staff actually came to check on us—and discovered a room was already ready! They apologized and made sure we were taken care of right away. While the amenities aren't flashy, the rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. For the price and convenience, this place offers outstanding value. I’ll definitely be back if I ever visit Chicago again.

Staying at the Best Western Grant Park Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right next to Millennium Park, with easy access to nearby attractions like museums, the aquarium, and the observatory. I loved how convenient it was to walk to everything without needing a car or public transit. Plus, the hotel connects directly to Paris Baguette, so grabbing breakfast on the go was effortless. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout my visit. It’s rare to find such a great balance of location, convenience, and value—this place definitely stands out. I’ll be coming back for sure.

Staying at the Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago was a great experience overall. The location is excellent—just steps away from public transit, making it super easy to get around downtown Chicago. Whether you're heading to museums, shopping districts, or live shows, everything is within reach. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay, making check-in smooth and welcoming. One of the best perks? There's a Subway right across the street—perfect for quick breakfasts, snacks, or late-night meals without having to go far. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with all the essentials you’d need. It’s not fancy, but it delivers exactly what it promises: a reliable, no-frills stay in a prime spot. For travelers looking for convenience, value, and a solid base in the city, this hotel is definitely worth considering.

Staying at Ohio House Motel was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and super convenient for public transit. I loved that I could store my luggage both before check-in and after check-out, which made our trip so much smoother. The room was spotless, fresh-smelling, and had all the essentials—including thoughtful touches like makeup removal wipes for ladies. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, going out of their way to ensure we felt welcome. Best part? We slept like babies—no noise, no disruptions, just peaceful comfort. My friends and I were so impressed we’re already planning to come back. If you're paying with cash, there's a $150 deposit required at check-in, so be sure to have that ready. Overall, this place is a hidden gem with top-tier value.

Our stay at Chicago Parthenon Hostel was absolutely fantastic! The restroom facilities were spotless, and having three showers and two toilets in the women’s area made mornings so much smoother—no long lines or rush. The shared room was perfectly sized for our group of four: cozy yet comfortable, with just enough space to move around without feeling cramped. We really enjoyed hanging out in the common area—it had a welcoming vibe and was a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. The staff were incredibly friendly and always ready to assist with any questions or requests. From the cleanliness to the warm atmosphere, everything about this hostel felt well thought out and cared for. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, clean, and social place to stay in Chicago.

I absolutely loved my stay at Hotel Chicago West Loop! The room was bright and sunny, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light—perfect for relaxing or working. I was traveling solo, and the atmosphere made it feel like a personal retreat. The location is super convenient, just a short walk from public transit to downtown. Clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—this place really delivers on comfort and value. Would definitely book again.

I absolutely loved my stay at Chicago South Loop Hotel—this is definitely my go-to choice for future business trips. The location is excellent, just a short walk from the train station and surrounded by quiet, clean streets. The room was spotless, cozy, and well-appointed with a comfortable bed that made for a great night's sleep. What truly stood out was the breakfast—huge variety, delicious flavors, and beautifully presented. From fresh pastries to hearty American classics, every bite was satisfying. It’s rare to find such a high-quality experience at this price point. I’ll be back again and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting downtown Chicago.

The location is fantastic—just half a block from Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. There’s a Walgreens and several restaurants right next door, which adds convenience for daily needs. The apartment itself is spacious with two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and great views across the street to the Cultural Center, which is definitely worth a visit. However, there were some serious issues during our stay. Water damage was visible in the unit, with flakes of ceiling paint falling onto the bed—very concerning. While the kitchen had appliances, it came completely empty; no kettle, microwave, or even basic cookware, so we couldn’t even heat water or reheat leftovers. Housekeeping also didn’t provide washcloths, and the floors were so dirty that my socks and feet turned black after walking around. Internet and cell reception were terrible—we had to contact customer service for login details, but it took hours to get a reply, and even then, the connection kept dropping in and out. Overall, the property has strong potential due to its prime location and size, but the lack of basic amenities and maintenance problems significantly impact the experience. I’d recommend this place only if you’re okay with dealing with these shortcomings.

The moment I walked in, the place was absolutely disgusting. There were visible dried mucus-like marks all over the walls and it was clear no proper cleaning had been done. They sent a cleaner to come back and 'reclean' the room, but I had to wait outside while they did it—this is exactly where I'm writing this review now. The hygiene standards are seriously unacceptable. I strongly advise others to stay away from this property. It's not worth the price, and the experience left me completely disappointed.

This was our first-ever stay at a bed and breakfast, and we couldn’t have been more delighted. Bart and Sandy went above and beyond to make us feel welcome—their hospitality was warm, genuine, and truly memorable. The property itself is immaculate, with a cozy yet modern vibe that makes you feel right at home. Location is excellent—just a short walk from public transit and within easy reach of downtown attractions. The breakfast was absolutely outstanding, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a thoughtful variety of options. We’ve already decided this will be our go-to choice for future trips to Chicago. Highly recommend!
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