HI - Chicago Hostel

The HI - Chicago hostel is in a great location -- just a block away from Grant Park, the lovely new Millennium Park, and the 'L' (elevated train) and the sights of the loop.

It's quite large, with the ping-pong table, foosball, and pool tables seeming drowned by the huge "common space" by the reception desk. But the kitchen and dining room are large and spotless, and the reception and the volunteer-run information desk are well staffed and informed. It is all a bit sterile -- a lot of larger Hostelling International places seem to lose atmosphere and personal style in favor of safety and cleanliness, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. They recently added free wifi, which is great for travelers with laptops.

The hostel is expensive, but to some degree that can be expected for accommodations in a large city. They do include a nice free breakfast as long as you wake up early enough to catch it. If you're arriving by car, also consider the cost of parking which is expensive in the area (but you can find cheap/free parking if you park in a residential part of Chicago and take the 'L' back to the hostel). After you check-out they also charge $2/bag if you want them to put your luggage in the storage room. Paying $4 to have the hostel hold your bags for a few hours is pretty pricey when you consider that luggage storage after checkout is free at most hostels.

The building shares space with a dormitory for college students from the college across the street, but that doesn't seem to make it into a party house by any means. For visitors to Chicago, the great location makes it's a smart choice. Out the front door, turn left and walk straight to hit the waters of Lake Michigan! Aside from the minor negative points we mentioned, overall this is an excellent hostel.

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
April 2006