10 Best Hotels in South Shore, Chicago for 2026

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Where to stay in South Shore

Find the best South Shore areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

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Downtown Chicago

The heart of the Midwest’s glittering metropolis has many offerings, from shopping and dining to parks, museums and exciting contemporary public art.

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The Loop

Chicago's central business district boasts numerous global businesses, retail establishments, and theaters. Explore the Loop Retail Historic District, Chicago Landmark Historic Michigan Boulevard District, and visit iconic attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago.

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Magnificent Mile

Upscale shopping district with luxury department stores, boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants, featuring landmarks like the Wrigley Building and Chicago Water Tower. The Magnificent Mile is easily accessible by public transit and seasonal trolley service.

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River North

Artistic spirit thrives here, with art galleries and a design district featuring luxury interior furnishings. Explore Kingsbury Park, enjoy vibrant nightlife on Hubbard Street, and visit the iconic Contemporaine Building.

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Lincoln Park

Upscale national retailers, boutiques, and bookstores abound in this affluent area, alongside numerous restaurants and coffee shops. Must-see attractions include Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago History Museum, and North Avenue Beach. Easily accessible via CTA transit and major roads.

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Top South Shore Hotel Reviews

The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown

10/10 Excellent

"I had a wonderful stay at The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown. The location is one of the biggest highlights—right in the heart of downtown with easy access to the Riverwalk, restaurants, shopping, attractions, and public transportation. It made getting around Chicago incredibly convenient. The hotel itself felt clean, modern, comfortable, and well maintained. My room was spacious, quiet, and relaxing, with a very comfortable bed and everything I needed for an enjoyable stay. I also appreciated the overall atmosphere of the property; it feels polished and upscale without being overly formal. The staff was friendly, professional, and helpful throughout my stay. Every interaction was pleasant, and the service helped make the experience feel smooth from beginning to end. Overall, this was an excellent stay and a great choice for anyone wanting to be centrally located in Chicago. Between the comfortable room, convenient location, cleanliness, and welcoming service, I would absolutely recommend The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown and would happily stay here again."

Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago

10/10 Excellent

"Beautiful new LEED hotel. Staff were exceptional. Unique part of the room was that you had to place your room key in reader inside your room in order to activate electricity ( room Lights,TV, etc.). I suggest they make visitors aware when they check in. Liked the safety features with the elevator too."

Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop by IHG

10/10 Excellent

"I love IHG, as this is my second location outside of Australia. We did walk in to a funny smelling room, and the toilet didn’t seem to be wiped properly. We brang this matter to the front desk attention and we were given free breakfast and the matter handled immediately! Great location! Comfy beds and friendly staff! Will always recommend!"

The Allegro Royal Sonesta Hotel Chicago Loop

8/10 Good

"Our room was beautiful Lynn appointed, just large enough for two people who like each other. No extras: just the bed, a desk, and locked dresser in the bedroom, and a tub/shower and sink/vanity in the bath..just roomy enough for a couple; excessively cosy if you aren’t."

L7 Chicago by LOTTE

10/10 Excellent

"Staff was friendly and really helpful, we arrived at 10 in the morning, they were able to hold our luggage until check-in time, the same thing when we left, they were able to hold our luggage until 8 PM, we loved the coffee machine in the lobby, I would totally recommend this hotel, we will be back."

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to go to South Shore?

The best time to go to South Shore is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and ideal for enjoying the region's outdoor attractions.

This period offers long, sunny days great for exploring the Indiana Dunes National Park, which stretches along Lake Michigan. You'll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, swimming, and relaxing on the beaches. The lake's waters are at their most inviting during these months.

Couples often find summer particularly appealing for romantic strolls along the shore at sunset or enjoying outdoor dining in towns like Chesterton. The pleasant evenings are great for experiencing local festivals and events that often take place during this season.

Families with children will also appreciate the summer for its extensive range of outdoor activities. The warmer temperatures mean kids can spend hours playing in the sand and splashing in Lake Michigan without getting cold.

Can I cancel my 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. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right South Shore hotel for you.

How much is the nightly rate at a South Shore hotel?

Hotel prices in South Shore often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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Things to do in Chicago

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Hotels in South Shore, Chicago

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Our top choices for South Shore hotels

1. Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton

2. Congress Plaza Hotel

3. Best Western Grant Park Hotel

4. Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown South Loop

5. Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown South Loop

6. Hilton Chicago

7. Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago

8. Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago - Downtown by IHG

9. Le Méridien Essex Chicago

10. Central Loop Hotel

11. Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile

12. Aloft by Marriott Chicago Mag Mile

13. Fairfield Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown / Magnificent Mile

14. Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Central Loop

15. River Hotel

16. Palmer House a Hilton Hotel

17. DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago - Magnificent Mile

18. citizenM Chicago Downtown

19. Staypineapple, An Iconic Hotel, The Loop

20. Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop, Chicago

Where to stay in South Shore

Downtown Chicago

The Loop

Magnificent Mile

River North

Lincoln Park

Top South Shore Hotel Reviews

The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown

Frequently asked questions

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