HI-Chicago FAQ

10 most asked questions

The staff and volunteers of HI-Chicago work hard to help you have a great visit to Chicago. These are the top 10 questions that we answer. If your question is not answered below, please call or email us.

Reception Staff

General Manager

Q? Do I need to be a member of Hostelling International to stay at the hostel?
A! No. If you are not a current member of Hostelling International you will pay a $3.00 daily membership fee per night.

Q? Do you have parking?
A! N, the hostel does not have its own parking lot, but a parking garage is located a few blocks from the hostel. We have a negotiated rate of $27 for overnight, until 2pm the following day. For directions to the parking garage, please go to the driving directions section.

Q? What's a hostel?
A! A hostel is a form of low budget accommodation, which has dormitory style rooms. Rooms are single sex. There are common washrooms and kitchen facilities for guests to use. We provide tons of information about Chicago to all of our guests. Our staff and volunteers guide guests on explorations of Chicago's best attractions.

Q? Is the hostel downtown?
A! Yes, the hostel is located in the city center, within walking distance of the lake and many area attractions. The hostel is the best location for everything you want to do in Chicago.

Q? Does the rate include breakfast?
A! Yes, the rate does include breakfast. This is a great continental breakfast including an assortment of bagels, muffins, cereals, fruit, juice and coffee!

Q? Can I store my luggage the day I check out?
A! Yes, you can store your luggage with our 24-hour security desk for no additional charge.

Q? Is the hostel close to public transportation?
A! Yes. The hostel is centrally located and is close to the city bus routes, city subway trains, Greyhound Terminal and Amtrak station. The hostel is easy to get to from both airports, O'Hare and Midway, on the city subway (CTA) for only $2.00.

Q? How many nights can I stay at the hostel?
A! There is a maximum stay of 14 days.  Check the Reservations page for current availability.

Q? Is there an age limit?
A! No. Hostelling International hostels are open to people of all ages. We require guests traveling without a parent or chaperone to be over the age of 18.

Luggage Storage