A historic building with a lighthouse, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

Find Cheap Hotels in Evanston, IL from CA $165

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Check availability on Evanston Cheap Hotels

Next weekend
Nov 6 - Nov 8
In two weeks
Nov 13 - Nov 15

Our top choices for Evanston cheap hotels

A spacious hotel lobby with a high ceiling, chandeliers, and a bar area.

1. The Gem Museum Suites

The Gem Museum Suites
3.5 star property
Downtown Evanston
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (298 reviews)
"Good breakfast"
United States
Zhaohua
The price is CA $277
CA $317 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 1 - Dec 2
The Gem Museum Suites
A grand lobby with a chandelier, a check-in counter, a sofa, and a coffee table.

2. Graduate by Hilton Evanston

Graduate by Hilton Evanston
4.0 star property
Downtown Evanston
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Clean room, breakfast was great."
United States
Lin
The price is CA $194
CA $222 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 1 - Dec 2
Graduate by Hilton Evanston
A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a desk, a lamp, and a painting on the wall.

3. Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston

Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston
3.5 star property
Downtown Evanston
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Great location, very friendly staff and very good quality breakfast."
United States
mark
The price is CA $319
CA $365 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 30 - Dec 1
Hyatt House Chicago/Evanston
A spacious lobby with a modern design, featuring large potted plants and a series of unique, white pendant lights.

4. Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston
3.5 star property
Downtown Evanston
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Great place for overnight stay."
United States
Susana
The price is CA $171
CA $195 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 30 - Dec 1
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston
A modern hotel corridor with a central walkway, wooden paneling on the walls, and a reception desk with a plant.

5. Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG

Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG
3.0 star property
Downtown Evanston
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,166 reviews)
"Very clean and great location near restaurants. We’d stay here again."
United States
MICHELLE
The price is CA $144
CA $165 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 1 - Dec 2
Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG
An outdoor dining area with wicker chairs and tables, overhead lighting, and a view of the street.

6. Hilton Orrington / Evanston

Hilton Orrington / Evanston
4.0 star property
Downtown Evanston
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (169 reviews)
"It was a good place to stay with my dog"
United States
Jinho
The price is CA $156
CA $179 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 2 - Dec 3
Hilton Orrington / Evanston
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Evanston

Discover cheap things to do in Evanston

Evanston offers a delightful mix of budget-friendly attractions that cater to the adventurous traveller. Start your exploration at the vibrant lakeshore, where you can enjoy stunning views and take leisurely strolls along the shoreline, perfect for a family picnic or a relaxing afternoon. The city’s charming downtown area is brimming with unique shops and cafes, where you can sample local flavors without breaking the bank. History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the local historic districts, which showcase beautiful architecture and provide a glimpse into Evanston's rich past. For those who love the arts, check out the various public art installations scattered throughout the city, offering a free and engaging way to experience the local culture. Finally, don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby parks, which often host community events and outdoor activities, making them ideal for families looking to enjoy some fresh air. When it comes to accommodations, the downtown area is a great choice, offering easy access to these attractions while still being home to a selection of affordable hotels where you can unwind after a day of adventure.

Find the best cheap hotels in Evanston

For travelers seeking budget-friendly options in Evanston, Illinois, these hotels provide excellent value without compromising on comfort or convenience.

Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers, offering a solid guest review rating of 8.4. This hotel delivers essential amenities like complimentary WiFi and free toiletries, ensuring guests have everything they need for a comfortable stay at an affordable price. Located in Downtown Evanston, it's close to local attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy a range of additional features including self-parking, daily housekeeping, and a fitness centre. The hotel also provides a microwave for in-room dining convenience, a sofa bed for extra sleeping arrangements, and a child-friendly window design for peace of mind. For those wishing to indulge, an executive room option is available, along with accessible fitness facilities and a gift shop for last-minute necessities.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Evanston
  • Nearby attractions: Lake Michigan - 1.6 km, Northwestern University - 2.1 km, Grosse Point Lighthouse - 2.4 km

Top Evanston Hotel Reviews

The Wade

The Wade

10/10 Excellent
"Great trip"
Stacey 3-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
The Wade

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Evanston as a budget traveler?
For budget-conscious travellers visiting Evanston, the Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG is a great option.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG, with an 8.4 rating, offers comfortable and clean rooms, along with complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff and the hotel's convenient location.
How much does a budget hotel in Evanston cost?
Budget hotel prices in Evanston vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $165 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Evanston is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Evanston, the areas around the Main Street and Dempster Street "L" train stops offer some of the most budget-friendly accommodation options. These locations provide easy access to public transport, connecting you efficiently to various parts of Evanston and Chicago.

Solo travellers will find that these neighbourhoods often feature independent hotels and guesthouses that may offer lower rates than those closer to the university campus or downtown Evanston. The proximity to the "L" train means you can easily explore Evanston's attractions, like the beautiful lakefront, without incurring taxi fares.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Evanston?
For families seeking top-rated, affordable accommodation in Evanston, the Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG stands out as a highly-regarded option.

This 3-star hotel, with an impressive 8.4 rating, is frequently praised by guests for its comfortable and clean rooms, ensuring a pleasant stay for the whole family. Travellers often highlight the friendly and helpful staff, who contribute to a friendly setting. Its great location is also a consistent positive, making it convenient for exploring the area. Furthermore, guests appreciate the nice breakfast options and the great, easy parking facilities, which are practical amenities for families travelling with children and luggage.
When is the most affordable time to visit Evanston?
The most affordable time to visit Evanston, Illinois, is generally during the colder months, specifically from late autumn through early spring, outside of university breaks. During this period, particularly between November and March (excluding the Christmas and New Year's holidays, and Spring Break), demand for accommodation tends to be lower, leading to more competitive pricing for hotels and other lodging options.

Solo travellers will find that hotel rates are often at their lowest during these off-peak times. While the weather might be chilly, many indoor attractions remain open, such as the Block Museum of Art on the university campus, which offers free admission. Additionally, walking along the frozen lakefront can be quite beautiful and offers a different perspective of the area without costing a penny.

Families might also appreciate the reduced crowds during these months, making it easier to explore the city's parks and public spaces, even if bundled up. Dining out can also be more economical, as some local restaurants may offer winter specials or fixed-price menus when tourist traffic is lighter.
Is Evanston a budget-friendly destination?
While Evanston is generally considered a more expensive destination, particularly given its proximity to Chicago, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying slightly outside the immediate downtown area, or explore options for longer stays that might offer better rates. Solo travellers can also look into guesthouses or rooms for rent, which can be more affordable than traditional hotels.

Couples can save money on food by exploring the diverse range of casual eateries and cafes, particularly those suiting the student population, which often offer excellent value meals. Picnics in one of Evanston's many beautiful parks along Lake Michigan, such as Dawes Park or Lighthouse Beach, are a delightful and inexpensive way to dine. Many of Evanston's attractions are free, including strolling through the historic campus of Northwestern University, admiring the architecture, or enjoying the scenic lakefront paths.
Which cheap hotels in Evanston have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Evanston with great customer service, the Holiday Inn Chicago North-Evanston by IHG is an excellent choice.

This 3-star hotel, rated 8.4 by our customers, consistently receives high praise for its service and friendly staff. Guests often highlight the great customer service provided by the front desk staff, making for a pleasant and welcoming stay. The hotel also offers practical amenities such as free WiFi, ensuring you can stay connected during your visit.
What free activities should we do in Evanston?
There's a fantastic array of free activities in Evanston, superb for making the most of your visit without spending a penny.

For solo travellers, a stroll along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline is a must. You can enjoy the vast expanse of the lake, walk or cycle along the designated paths, and take in the natural beauty. Exploring the campus of Northwestern University is another excellent free option; its impressive architecture and lovely green spaces are very pleasant for an afternoon wander. You might even catch a free student performance or exhibition.

Families will appreciate the many parks Evanston offers. Dawes Park, with its beautiful gardens and lake views, is ideal for a picnic and some outdoor playtime. Lighthouse Beach, while popular for swimming in warmer months, also provides picturesque views and a pleasant area for children to play in the sand without an entry fee.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Evanston as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Evanston with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Evanston. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Evanston for you.

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