Carlton Inn Midway- My favorite Chicago hotel

While in Chicago stay at the Carlton Midway Inn.  It is reasonably priced, close to Midway airport, close to the elevated train, has free parking, and the staff is amazingly informative and friendly.

I do a lot of transiting in Chicago because of the well-connected airports, and the amazing cultural events and activities of the city.  I love the festivals, the museums, and the endless opportunity for great music and food.

While in Chicago stay at the Carlton Midway Inn. It is reasonably priced, close to Midway airport, close to the elevated train, has free parking, and the staff is amazingly informative and friendly.

What works for me about the Carlton Inn Midway is that it is 5 minutes from Midway airport, yet free of airplane noise.  The hotel picks up for free at Midway airport.  The hotel is less than a two block walk to the Orange Line of the CTA subway/elevated train system- known as the “L."  And, it has free parking for guests.

I've learned over the years that splurging for a fancy pad in Chicago isn't worth it for me, as I spend most of my time outside the hotel room exploring neighborhoods, dining at ethnic restaurants, and enjoying the cultural goodies.  I love the museums, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Art Institute.  Ball games are a great way to experience the local vibe.  I always cheer for the home team, even though I am not much of a ball fan myself.

Finally to note, I meet lots of people who are going to conventions at McCormick place at the hotel, as it is an easy el ride away.  I also meet lots of fellow Midwestern folks who drive in for a little dose of Chicago and are delighted to leave the car behind (for free) and explore by elevated train.  The hotel is right off of Highway I-55, before you enter the busyness of the city.

From my own experience, parking in downtown can cost $30-40 per day at the hotels.  Meters can cost up to $6 per hour (which means you need a lot of rolls of quarters).  And tickets and towing is commonplace.  My advice is don't drive around Chicago.  Park the car, and be carefree and timeless on the trains.  All day, unlimited passes are cheap- maybe $5.

Carlton Inn Midway is not on the central reservation system at this time.  It makes them unseen when you are hotel searching on expedia and travelocity.  You'll have to make a reservation through them directly.

Their site is: www.carltoninnmidway.com

Also, you want a great, cheap option for backpackers and young travelers, Hostelling International Chicago costs about $30 per night for a dorm bed in a great downtown location.  Just don’t show up in your car.