HI Chicago, The J. Ira and Nicki Harris Family Hostel

Danielle 3 weeks ago

The most budget friendly place to stay in downtown Chicago. I was in a 10 bed dorm for 3 nights. Not all the dorms have curtains, but I chose a 10 bed because it did. Each bed had a light and outlet too, and the room itself was spacious. Everyone in my room was respectful about sharing a sleeping space. There's a train nearby that runs all night, but I don't expect great sleep in a room with 9 others anyways. I wish they had a few more bathrooms, but even on a busy weekend I always found one. They could use more hooks though!! Can't comment on the kitchen cleanliness since I didn't use it. Highly recommend going to any social events the hostel has. I think this hostel is so big that it leads to less of a social traveler experience. They regularly do a friendly socializing event on Friday night that encourages you to talk to other guests. There is also a Cuban cafe (with several vegan options for me!) right next to the hostel that shares an entrance.

S. Chen a month ago

Wonderful concept and mission, to reserve a space in the city for travellers to enjoy and to meet each other. A bit to go on the execution in terms of facility maintenance. First time staying at a hostel so learning the ropes. 6-person female dorm room has ensuite sink area, shower room, and toilet room. Flooded even before use - known issue - but fortunately housekeeping staff was kindly able to help despite the late hour. Offers events for guests like free tours of landmarks, ice cream social, bar crawls, and more.

WAQAS AHMED KHAN 5 months ago

HI Chicago Hostel is an outstanding place to stay and easily one of the best hostels I’ve experienced. The location is perfect — right in downtown Chicago, close to Millennium Park, public transport, major attractions, and great food options. The hostel is very clean, well maintained, and well organized. Rooms are comfortable, beds are good, and common areas are spacious and welcoming. The bathrooms and showers are clean with hot water available anytime, which is a big plus after long days of exploring the city. The staff deserves special praise — extremely helpful, professional, and friendly. They are always ready to guide you, whether it’s about transportation, sightseeing, or general assistance. The overall environment feels safe, respectful, and traveler-friendly. Great facilities including a kitchen, lounges, and social spaces that make it easy to relax or meet people from around the world. The hostel offers excellent value for money considering the location and quality of service. Highly recommended for solo travelers, backpackers, and even short stays. I would definitely stay here again on my next visit to Chicago.

Daniel Dahlhausen a month ago

Location is 10/10. Good value for the money. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again. I also met a lot of cool people here from all over the globe! Also the hostel holds a decent amount of activities and they are pretty fun, generous, and well thought out. Yeah you’ll definitely have noise, as you are in the heart of downtown. It wasn’t a huge problem for me and I don’t think anyone else really cared.

LEX 7 months ago

Stayed here for a night while passing through Chicago. I am very out and about naturally, so I just need something inexpensive with a bed to land at the end of the night. This place was very reasonably priced. I think I paid about 79 for a private room with a bunk bed with a friend. We had a great view from our room. We didn't use any amenities but they have laundry, a common area with activities and seat to eat, as well as a commercial kitchen to make and store your own food in the refrigerators. There were two available bathrooms on the floor with showers. I had no issue with them being taken up during my stay. They offer activities for guests to participate in and get to socialize. We could hear the train from our room all throughout the stay but we were not personally bothered by it. The bedding did have some stains on it and mattresses weren't the most quiet when moving around. The location was next to a CTA line and in the middle of everything people would want to see.