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Chicago (Illinois) Hotels with 18+ Check-In

When looking to book a hotel in Chicago as an 18-year-old, your options are limited. Luckily you do have a few options across various price ranges.

In this guide, we’ll take a look through some of the more popular hotels. We’ve also included a section looking at alternatives to hotels for 18-year-olds before finishing off with some FAQs.

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Important: Hotels may change their policy before we have a chance to update our website. Be sure to double-check the minimum age to check in before booking.

10 Hotels in Chicago with 18+ Check-In

We’ve rounded up some popular hotels in Chicago that allow 18-year-olds to check in. You have a few options including plenty located centrally near all of the popular attractions. For each hotel, we’ll talk about key points on the location, amenities, price, and star rating.

Important: You will likely be required to provide I.D. and a credit card when checking in.

1. River Hotel

Price: Mid | Stars: 4

Located in the heart of Downtown Chicago, nestled on the south bank of the Chicago River. The hotel offers spectacular views, as well as convenient access to many of the city’s best attractions, including The Magnificent Mile only two blocks away. You can expect to find luxurious touches such as premium bedding, wall-mounted HD TVs, and even kitchenettes or seating areas in select rooms. The hotel is 17 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Pet-friendly
  • Fitness center
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Laundry
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For live music, the House of Blues and The Chicago Theatre are nearby and both host shows that allow under 21s to attend. If you would like to check out some great views, Cindy’s Rooftop bar and Cerise Rooftop bar allow under 21s at certain times.

2. Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago

Price: Mid | Stars: 3

The Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago is located near Grant Park on Michigan Avenue, and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan. Within walking distance of several major attractions such as the Buckingham Fountain, The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, the Art Institute, and Magnificent Mile. The hotel provides comfortable accommodation with amenities like room service, flat-screen TVs, pillowtop beds, and refrigerators. Guests can indulge in a culinary treat with on-site dining options, and maintain their fitness regime with a 24-hour fitness center. Additional services like a barbershop, same-day dry cleaning, and shoeshine services add to the convenience. The hotel is 17 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Fitness center
  • Restaurant
  • Facilities for disabled guests
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For jazz fans, the Jazz Showcase is nearby and welcomes all ages. If you would like to check out some great views, Cindy’s Rooftop bar allows under 21s at certain times.

3. Hilton Chicago

Price: Mid | Stars: 4

The Hilton Chicago is located on the famous Michigan Avenue, overlooking popular Chicago attractions including Grant Park, Lake Michigan, and the Museum Campus. Guests can walk to Solider Field and Millennium Park from this hotel. The Hilton Chicago rooms come with modern amenities like MP3 alarm clocks, refrigerators, and room service. Additionally, this hotel offers on-site dining options, including local cuisine, an Irish pub, or light fare. Guests can enjoy the heated indoor pool, hot tub, and seasonal sundeck to relax after a long day exploring Chicago. The hotel is 17 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Pet-friendly
  • Swimming pool
  • Fitness center
  • Restaurant
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Laundry
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For jazz fans, the Jazz Showcase is nearby and welcomes all ages. You can also book a private room at Sakura Karaoke Bar. Drag show entertainment is open to those aged 16+ at Lips Chicago.

4. Warwick Allerton Chicago

Price: Mid | Stars: 4

The Warwick Allerton is a modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of downtown Chicago, right on the Magnificent Mile. Its prime location puts it just a mile away from some of the city’s top attractions, including Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago. The hotel boasts comfortable and well-equipped rooms, complete with flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and work desks. Additionally, the hotel offers on-site dining and convenient amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, same-day laundry, and dry-cleaning services. The hotel is 16 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Pet-friendly
  • Fitness center
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Laundry
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For jazz fans, Winter’s Jazz Club is nearby and welcomes under 21s accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If you would like to check out some great views, the Offshore Rooftop bar allows under 21s at certain times.

5. The Palmer House Hilton

Price: Mid | Stars: 4

The Palmer House Hilton is an iconic hotel located in the heart of the Theater District in Chicago. Boasting a rich history, this hotel is highly sought after for its proximity to some of the city’s most notable attractions, including the Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park, both of which are just two blocks away. The Palmer House Hilton is also famous for being the hotel where the brownie was invented. In addition to its fascinating past, the hotel features modern rooms equipped with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, desks, and comfortable armchairs. On-site dining options are also available, along with a fitness center, spa, and swimming pool. The hotel is 17 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Pet-friendly
  • Swimming pool
  • Fitness center
  • Restaurant
  • Facilities for disabled guests
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For jazz fans, the Jazz Showcase is nearby and welcomes all ages. If you would like to check out some great views, Cindy’s Rooftop bar allows under 21s.

6. Club Quarters Hotel Central Loop, Chicago

Price: Low | Stars: 4

Club Quarters Hotel Central Loop is a prime accommodation option in the heart of Chicago’s central business district. Located near Symphony Center, Willis Tower, and the Art Institute of Chicago, guests can easily explore the city’s top attractions. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with amenities such as a flat-screen cable TV, iPod docking station, desk, and coffee machine. Along with 24-hour room service, guests can grab a bite to eat at the hotel restaurant or enjoy a drink at the pub. For those wanting to keep up with their fitness routine, the hotel features a gym as well. The hotel is 16 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Pet-friendly
  • Fitness center
  • Restaurant
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Laundry
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: You can enjoy an evening of entertainment by booking a private room at Sakura Karaoke Bar.

7. Freehand Chicago

Price: Low | Stars: 4

Situated in the vibrant River North neighborhood, Freehand Chicago is just a short walk from some of the most famous landmarks in the Windy City. Guests can easily reach the Water Tower Chicago, Magnificent Mile, John Hancock Observatory, and Millennium Park. Freehand Chicago offers both shared and private rooms to cater to a wide range of guest needs, making it an ideal choice for solo travelers or groups. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the hotel’s fitness center and 24-hour front desk to make the most out of their stay. The hotel is 16 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Fitness center
  • Restaurant
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Laundry
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For live music, the House of Blues is nearby and hosts shows that allow under 21s to attend. For jazz fans, Andy’s Jazz Club welcomes under 21s and Winter’s Jazz Club allows under 21s when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

8. Hyatt Regency Chicago

Price: Mid | Stars: 4

The Hyatt Regency Chicago is situated off the banks of the Chicago River, offering guests stunning views of downtown, the Chicago River, and Lake Michigan. The hotel is conveniently located near popular tourist attractions such as Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and Magnificent Mile, all within walking distance. Each room is equipped with modern amenities such as a 37-inch flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, and desk and seating area. Guests can enjoy on-site dining options, a 24-hour fitness center, and spa services during their stay at the hotel. The hotel is 17 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Fitness center
  • Restaurant
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Laundry
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For jazz fans, Winter’s Jazz Club allows under 21s when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. If you would like to check out some great views, Cerise Rooftop bar allows under 21s at certain times.

9. Found Hotel Chicago River North

Price: Low | Stars: 3

The Found Hotel Chicago River North is housed in the original Olympia Building and is located in the River North neighborhood. Guests can easily walk to popular attractions like the Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art, Water Tower Chicago, Northbridge, and Magnificent Mile. All of the hotel’s rooms come equipped with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a convenient wardrobe. The on-site restaurant serves up delicious American cuisine, and guests can also enjoy a shared lounge area and a 24-hour front desk. The hotel is 16 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Restaurant
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Laundry
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For live music, Cobra Lounge host many shows that allow under 21s to attend.

10. Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago

Price: Mid | Stars: 3

Hotel Versey Days Inn by Wyndham Chicago is a fantastic accommodation option situated in the lively Lincoln Park neighborhood. The hotel is within walking distance of some of Chicago’s most popular attractions such as the iconic Wrigley Field, Lake Michigan, and the Lincoln Park Zoo. Every guest room offers 50-inch flat-screen TVs and Nespresso coffee machines. Additionally, there is complimentary access to the LA Fitness gym next door, perfect for those who like to keep up with their fitness routine while on the road. The hotel is 14 miles from O’Hare International Airport.

  • Free WiFi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Facilities for disabled guests
See Available Rooms

Nearby for under 21s: For live music, Lincoln Hall and The Vic Theatre host many shows that allow under 21s to attend.

More Hotels in Chicago with 18+ Check-In

If the hotels above aren’t to your fancy, below you can find a list of even more hotels in Chicago with 18+ check-in:

Things to Do in Chicago for Under 21s

When looking for activities to keep you busy on your stay in Chicago, you’ll find that – like with hotels – a lot of places have an age limit of 21+. Below, you can find our guides to help you find things to do for under 21s:

  • Catch some live music – For live music, we’ve found some venues that allow under 21s to attend, at least for certain shows.
  • Enjoy some jazz – If you’re specifically into jazz, these clubs have suitable events you can attend under 21.
  • Have a karaoke night – You can hire a private karaoke room in one of these bars under the age of 21.
  • Attend a drag show – Enjoy a drag show with your meal at Lips Chicago which allows those under 21 to attend.
  • Admire the views from a rooftop restaurant – Most rooftop restaurants are 21+ from the evening onwards, but some allow under 21s during the day.

Alternatives to Hotels for 18 Year Olds

If you don’t want to stay at any of these hotels, you do have a couple of other options.

Airbnb

You can usually stay at an Airbnb as an 18 year old. Hosts can change their age requirement policy so make sure to check before booking but this is uncommon and most allow 18 year olds.

Youth Hostels

Youth hostels are another great alternative for 18 year olds as their target audience is young people. They are also very cheap but you will have to sactrifice some comfort and privacy.

FAQs

Is it legal for an 18 year old to check in to a hotel?

Yes, it is perfectly legal for an 18 year old to check into a hotel, as long as the hotel allows it.

So why do some hotels have an age requirement of 21?

Some hotels believe people under 21 are not mature enough to behave responsibly in a hotel on their own. Other reasons include lower insurance rates and legal risks relating to underage drinking.

Will I need a credit card to check in as an 18 year old?

Yes, it is likely you will be asked for a credit card when you check in.

Will I need I.D. to check in as an 18 year old?

Yes, there is a good chance you will be required to provide I.D. when checking in.

If you are unsure or have questions for a specific hotel, the best thing to do is give them a call to make sure you’re getting the most accurate and relevant information.