Hotels in South Loop

Urban Oasis: Explore the Cultural Tapestry of South Loop

Discover the vibrant South Loop in Chicago, where culture meets urban flair. This dynamic neighbourhood boasts world-class museums like the Field Museum and the Shedd Aquarium, alongside stunning skyscrapers that define the city’s skyline. Stroll along the picturesque lakefront, soaking in views of Lake Michigan, or explore the architectural marvels that tell Chicago's rich history. With a lively atmosphere and a blend of leisure and learning, South Loop is a must-visit for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking an unforgettable urban adventure. Embrace the essence of downtown Chicago in this captivating locale! For our best hotel rates in South Loop and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in South Loop

South Loop, Chicago, is ideal for travellers seeking a vibrant urban experience. Michigan Avenue offers world-class shopping and dining, while Grant Park features beautiful green spaces and art. Willis Tower provides stunning city views. For accommodations, expect a range of comfortable hotels in these areas, with many featuring modern amenities and easy access to attractions. For first-time visitors, Michigan Avenue is the best choice, as it encapsulates the city's energy and highlights. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in South Loop:

1. Near Michigan AvenueOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is perfect for travellers looking for adventure, business opportunities, and shopping experiences. It's a bustling locale with a variety of attractions at your fingertips. Consider staying at Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent MileOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel that caters to business travellers and offers adventure sports options like hiking and kayaking nearby. Alternatively, InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile by IHGOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel, is housed in a historic building and provides family-friendly amenities. For a luxurious experience, check out The GwenOpens in a new window, another 4.5-star option that welcomes pets and offers extensive business facilities.
2. Near Grant ParkOpens in a new window: This family-friendly location offers outdoor activities and easy access to the city's cultural offerings. You can enjoy a variety of entertainment options while being close to green spaces. Hotel BnBOpens in a new window is a cozy 2.5-star hotel that provides guests with entertainment amenities. For a more upscale stay, consider Marriott Marquis ChicagoOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel with direct beach access and business facilities. Another good choice is The Wheeler MansionOpens in a new window, a stylish 4-star boutique hotel that features unique décor and offers childcare amenities.
3. Near Willis TowerOpens in a new window: A hub of business and shopping, this area is ideal for those looking to explore the city's iconic skyline. Courtyard by Marriott Chicago at Medical District/UICOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to business travellers and offers numerous meeting facilities. For a budget option, Hotel Chicago West LoopOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, allows pets and provides essential business amenities, making it a good choice for those travelling with furry companions.

Things to do in South Loop for first times

Three days in South Loop offers travellers a chance to explore stunning waterfront views, enjoy vibrant parks, and admire striking urban architecture. Visitors can indulge in leisurely boating, relax on sandy beaches, and savour breathtaking sunsets, all while enjoying a lively shopping scene that captures the essence of downtown Chicago. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to South Loop:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure on the iconic Michigan Avenue, known for its vibrant shopping scene and stunning architecture. After exploring the shops and enjoying a coffee, head to the Aon Center for a glimpse of one of the tallest buildings in the city, where you can take in panoramic views of Chicago. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can soak in the stunning river views and perhaps enjoy a bite to eat at one of the riverside eateries.
• Day 2: Start your day in Grant Park, a beautiful expanse of green space perfect for a leisurely stroll or a morning picnic. From there, make your way to the Harold Washington Library Center, an architectural gem where you can discover local history or catch a breathtaking view from the rooftop garden. Finish your day at the Art Institute of Chicago, where you can immerse yourself in a world-class collection of art spanning various periods and styles, ensuring a culturally enriching experience.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Millennium Park, where you can marvel at the famous Cloud Gate sculpture and enjoy the park's lush landscapes. Next, delve into natural history at the Field Museum of Natural History, where you can explore fascinating exhibits, including Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex skeleton. Wrap up your day with a visit to Willis Tower; don't miss the Skydeck for stunning views of the city skyline that will leave you in awe.

4 tips to find a great South Loop hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit South Loop is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. If you're an international traveller, it's advisable to book your flight at least 3 months in advance to secure more affordable fares. Domestic travellers should aim to book at least 2 months ahead for better prices. For those looking to explore the key attractions, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. South Loop offers great value for money with its impressive museums, iconic skyscrapers, and stunning lakefront views, making it an ideal destination for anyone on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals in South Loop, exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com is a great start. Here, you could find enticing discounts on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions that could help you save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in South Loop.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for a holiday, take your location into account. While accommodations near major attractions or city centres may offer greater convenience, they usually tend to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the places you intend to visit.

Best time to go to South Loop

South Loop experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.7°F (-3.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit South Loop are May to July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.