Hotels in Washington Heights

Elevated Vibes: Unveiling the Cultural Tapestry of Washington Heights

Discover Washington Heights, a vibrant neighborhood in Chicago that beautifully blends rich history with modern charm. Known for its strong community spirit, this area boasts picturesque parks like the expansive Washington Heights Park and the tranquil Dan Ryan Woods, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore local shops and savor diverse culinary delights, from soul food to classic Chicago-style pizza. Immerse yourself in cultural events and community festivals that celebrate its heritage. Whether you're strolling through its tree-lined streets or enjoying a sunny afternoon in the park, Washington Heights offers an authentic glimpse of Chicago's heart and soul. For the best hotel rates in Washington Heights and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Washington Heights

Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Soldier Field are top attractions in Chicago. Michigan Avenue offers shopping and dining, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Navy Pier features entertainment and stunning lake views, while Soldier Field is famous for sports events. Accommodations vary from luxury hotels to friendly apartments, including pet-friendly options and riverside stays. Whether you prefer bustling city life or a relaxing getaway, these areas provide diverse lodging choices for every traveler. Here are some of the best hotels in Washington Heights that our travelers love:

1. Near Michigan AvenueOpens in a new window: If you're looking to immerse yourself in a vibrant shopping and business district, Michigan Avenue offers a perfect blend of adventure and urban experience. The area is bustling with retail shops, dining options, and entertainment. Consider staying at Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent MileOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star lodging that's great for business travelers, offering a range of amenities including multiple meeting rooms and adventure activities such as hiking and kayaking nearby. Another excellent choice is InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel housed in a historic building, catering to families and business travelers alike, with children’s amenities and meeting facilities. For a more luxurious stay, The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue ChicagoOpens in a new window is also a 4.5-star option that welcomes pets and provides extensive business services, making it ideal for both leisure and work-related travel.
2. Near Soldier FieldOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for sports enthusiasts, offering easy access to various sporting events and activities. While Residence Inn By Marriott MerrillvilleOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel suitable for business travelers and pet owners, it provides essential business amenities. Alternatively, Howard Johnson by Wyndham MerrillvilleOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, offers adventure options nearby and is ideal for those seeking a more active experience. For a budget-friendly stay, Quality Inn Monee I-57Opens in a new window is another 2.5-star hotel focused on business needs, providing a comfortable base for your Chicago adventures.

Things to do in Washington Heights for first time

Three days in Washington Heights is ideal for immersing yourself in vibrant culture, enjoying scenic parks, and exploring local markets. Don’t miss the chance to hike through lush trails and unwind with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, making it a memorable urban escape. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Washington Heights:

• Day 1: Start your Chicago adventure at Millennium Park, where you can admire the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as The Bean. After soaking in the art and culture, stroll over to the Chicago Riverwalk to enjoy the scenic views of the river and the city's stunning architecture. As the day winds down, make your way to Michigan Avenue, a bustling hub for shopping and dining, perfect for indulging in local cuisine or picking up unique souvenirs.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Navy Pier, where you can explore attractions, dining options, and even take a ride on the Ferris wheel for spectacular views of Lake Michigan. Afterward, head to Water Tower Place, an iconic shopping destination that offers a variety of stores and eateries. Conclude your day with a visit to Cloud Gate, where you can capture beautiful photos against the backdrop of this mesmerizing sculpture reflecting the Chicago skyline.
• Day 3: Begin with a leisurely stroll through Grant Park, known as Chicago's front yard, where lush gardens and art installations await. Next, visit Willis Tower, where you can take the Skydeck for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Wrap up your day on State Street, a historic shopping street lined with popular stores and cozy cafes, making it a perfect spot to unwind while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Chicago.

5 tips to find a great Washington Heights hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Washington Heights is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For a great value for money experience, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area’s main attractions. Notable sites include the urban park and sports facilities, which make for excellent leisure activities. This makes Washington Heights an affordable destination for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Washington Heights, you're in luck! You could find enticing discounts on hotels by heading to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Additionally, consider setting up email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, so you’re more likely to snag a great rate before your trip. And while exploring your options, don’t forget to check out rental offers, townhouses, and condos in Chicago, as they might feature similar last-minute discounts.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you remain flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Washington Heights.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas may offer convenience but usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, finding a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Washington Heights and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Washington Heights

Here are a few popular dishes in Washington Heights, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America:

• Chicago-style hot dog: A true Chicago classic, the Chicago-style hot dog is a must-try for any visitor. It features a beef frankfurter served in a poppy seed bun and topped with a unique combination of mustard, onions, relish, tomato slices, a pickle spear, and a dash of celery salt. Notably, it’s served dragged through the garden, emphasizing fresh toppings and a no-ketchup rule. This vibrant dish reflects the city's culinary heritage and is often enjoyed at local ballgames or street festivals, embodying the spirit of Chicago’s casual dining culture.
• Italian beef sandwich: Another iconic dish, the Italian beef sandwich consists of thinly sliced, seasoned roast beef piled high on an Italian roll. It’s typically served with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera and can be dipped in flavorful beef jus for that extra kick. This sandwich showcases the Italian-American influence in Chicago and is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal while exploring the neighborhood.

Best time to go to Washington Heights

Washington Heights experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.7°F (-3.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Washington Heights, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.

Washington Heights Travel Information