Trifter

Travelling North America is expensive even without having to worry about accommodations.  A cheap hotel within the heart of the city in Chicago will easily cost you $100 for a very low end room.  While it is obviously a luxury to stay in a nice private hotel room, most travelers spend a very small amount of time in their private quarters and most of their time adventuring the city, so what is the point of blowing $100-$300 per night on a hotel room when there are some amazing Chicago hostels available for less than $30 a night. 

In this article I will go over four great Chicago hostels that I have had the luxury of staying in that allowed me to spend my money on my adventures instead of lodging.

Arlington House International Hostel

Highlights:

• Free Internet
• Free Breakfast
• Very Friendly
• Guitars available to borrow

Arlington House International Hostel Overview:
Located in Lincoln park, Arlington House International Hostel is just 10 minutes from beautiful down town Chicago.  If you are looking to meet other friendly back packers and want to pay as little as possible Arlington House is a great option.  Not only does Arlington House provide free Internet to the residents, but they also provide a free continental breakfast to help save you even more money during your travels.  The hostel is located close to numerous pubs and restaurants for those wanting to stay near by while still enjoying some of the Chicago culture.  Either venture out into Chicago or spend time socializing with other backpackers in the game room, common TV room or over a game of pool.

Chicago International Hostel

Highlights:

• 24 Hour Checkins
• No curfews
• Complete Kitchen
• Locker rentals
• Common room with a TV

Chicago International Hostel Overview:
If you are looking for a hostel with a bit more attitude, consider stopping by Chicago International Hostel.  Chicago International Hostel is located in a safe neighborhood by Loyola University.  Plenty of restaurants and local shopping are at your door step or if you are looking to see some of Chicago, Lake Michigan is just two blocks away while the beach is merely a 10 minute stroll.

AAE Chicago Parthenon Hostel

Highlights:

• Free WiFi Internet
• Free Breakfast
• Large Common Room
• Large Kitchen
• Airport Shuttles
• Private Rooms available
• Bar and Restaurant on site.

AAE Chicago Parthenon Hostel Overview:
For the person who requires easy access to public transportation, AAE Chicago Parthenon Hostel is most definitely the best hostel option in Chicago.  AAE Chicago Parthenon Hostel is the only hostel in the Chicago area that is walking distance from the train, Greyhound Bus and Amtrak making it the perfect hostel for the backpacker on the go.  Not only is the hostel’s location amazing, they also offer some great amenities. Free Wifi internet and a scrumptious free breakfast are just two of the perks you get staying at AAE Chicago Parthenon Hostel.  If you are looking for a hostel with a little bit of privacy, AAE Chicago also offers private rooms for groups of one to eight people.

H.I. Chicago

Highlights:

• 24 Hour Access
• No Curfew
• Luggage Storage
• Free Tour Guides
• Computers available in Lobby
• Wheelchair accessible
• Lockers in each room

H.I. Chicago Overview:
H.I. Chicago has been rated one of the best Hostels in Chicago consistently over the years.  H.I. Chicago is a large hostel with over 500 beds that also happens to be conveniently placed in the middle of many attractions right in the heart of Chicago.  The Navy Pier, the Art Institute, Michigan Avenue, Sears Tower and Lake Michigan are all within walking distance making H.I. Chicago a great location for a backpacker with their mind set on site seeing.  One cool perk that comes with staying at H.I. Chicago is they offer guided tours of the city.  This is especially beneficial if it is your first time in the Windy city, since the locals can show you all the nooks and crannies you might have never found on your own.