Where to stay

Best neighbourhoods in Chicago

Every neighbourhood scored for accessibility, value, local feel, and more. Honest trade-offs on each — no superlatives without substance.

AllBudgetLocal feelNightlifeFamiliesWalkabilityMost central

Top pick

The Loop & Riverwalk

Skyscraper canyon — Art Institute, Millennium Park, the Bean, and the Riverwalk under Burnham's towers.

Chicago Riverwalk under the Loop towers

The Loop & Riverwalk

Top pick

Skyscraper canyon — Art Institute, Millennium Park, the Bean, and the Riverwalk under Burnham's towers.

10/10

Walk

4/10

Price

4/10

Local

10/10

Central

Wrigley Field marquee in Lakeview Chicago

Lincoln Park & Lakeview

Good

Lakefront residential strip — Lincoln Park Zoo (free), Wrigley Field, brownstones and the Conservatory.

9/10

Walk

6/10

Price

8/10

Local

7/10

Central

Wicker Park Six Corners intersection

Wicker Park & Bucktown

Trade-off

Indie-arts heartland — vintage on Milwaukee Ave, taquerias, brunch culture, the Six Corners intersection.

9/10

Walk

6/10

Price

8/10

Local

7/10

Central

18th Street murals in Pilsen Chicago

Pilsen & Little Village

Trade-off

Mexican-American Chicago — National Museum of Mexican Art, 18th Street murals, taqueria density unmatched.

8/10

Walk

8/10

Price

10/10

Local

6/10

Central

University of Chicago gothic quadrangle in Hyde Park

Hyde Park

Trade-off

University of Chicago campus — gothic quadrangles, Obama Presidential Center site, Museum of Science and Industry.

8/10

Walk

8/10

Price

9/10

Local

4/10

Central

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