HI Chicago, The J. Ira and Nicki Harris Family Hostel
WAQAS AHMED KHAN · 333 Google reviewsHI Chicago, The J. Ira and Nicki Harris Family Hostel — a food spot in Loop. The staff makes it feel personal. Well-priced, works for larger parties.
What 3,026 diners keep saying
What 3,026 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“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.”
“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.”
“I stayed here recently for two nights in a private bed. It was my first stay in a hostel and I was very impressed. The staff was very friendly and helpful throughout my stay. My room was cozy and clean, as were the common areas in the room. I was on the 7th floor and was aware of the train, but I didn't need to use the earplugs I brought. The common areas, the dining room and lounge, on the second floor are quite large and comfortable. The library, also on the second floor, is well stocked with books to look at in the hostel as well as books to exchange. The main stairwell has large, interesting murals painted on each floor. A good incentive to take the stairs if you are able. The hostel offers a variety of weekly activities for guests to participate in. I had already planned a full schedule so I didn't participate but there were two I would have liked to. I only have two complaints overall. On my first night my room was very warm, making it difficult to sleep. The second night wasn't an issue. My other complaint is that some of the guests can be rather messy, leaving dishes and things scattered around. However, the staff does an excellent job cleaning up, and I picked some things up here and there. Overall, based on the staff, the location, and the facilities themselves, I'd reccomend it. I've already made reservations for another stay next year.”
“שירות מעולה, הגעתי ב 1 בלילה והיה מי שיקבל אותי קיבלתי מיטה מסודרת וחדר נקי שקט ונעים ונח”
“Hostel ini sangat luas dan sangat baik, dekat dengan transportasi, dan minimarket, ada pantri juga untuk memasak, hanya saja yang kurang saat checkout akan ada fee jika menitipkan koper kita. Ada minimarket dan kafe didalam hostel ini, dan dekat kemana-mana. Selimutnya kurang bagus, krna meninggalkan jejak dipakaian kita.”
“It's OK, good about price-quality. Saturday and Sunday the kitchen is a mess. But on Monday they cleaned it up. There's free coffee all day. Good amenities. They organize events for guests.”
“An alternative to overpriced Chicago hotels. Good for short stay. Secure, clean. Units of 4 rooms and shared wc/bath, kitchen. Only fridge is working in the kitchen. No electric kettle. Since June 2025 breakfast is no longer served. Good location in downtown Chicago, between State and Michigan streets. You may be shocked by a homeless camp near the hostel entrance on the corner of State street. This is disturbing and should be removed 🤨😒🙄 Also, the prices during Chicago Blues Festival 2026 have doubled, which with the very high tax, makes the stay very expensive!”
“das Hostel ist von der Sauberkeit der Zimmer und sanitären Einrichtungen gut. Aber leider waschen viele Gäste ihr gebrauchtes Geschirr nicht ab. Daher gibt es dafür Minuspunkte. dem Management scheint es auch egal zu sein. Daher nur bedingt zu empfehlen.”
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