HI-Chicago Student Center

With the presentation of a valid Student ID Card university and college students are invited to use the “center” and participate in all hostel-organized programs and activities. Visiting students will find a center enriched by international travelers.

  • Join a group discussion in the comfortable lounge.
  • Browse travel resource books in the E. Morse Library.
  • Visit the Information Center for up to date info on Chicago entertainment.
  • Join hostel guests on a planned outing to restaurants, clubs, festivals, or local civic and cultural events.
  • Share an international meal with a hostel guest.
  • Enjoy our entertainment series featuring local musicians.
  • Attend a travel education workshop.
  • Have coffee with a friend in the cafĂ©.

Whatever you do you will find a warm and friendly atmosphere in the center.


The Association of College Activities Administrators meeting at HI-Chicago.

The J. Ira & Nicki Harris Family Hostel has meeting rooms and recreational spaces available for campus groups. These are ideal for workshops, classes, small conferences, and social activities. Area campuses may want to take advantage of our downtown location. Chicago offers a wealth of nearby cultural events and social activities.

I would like to express my thanks for your assistance in making our retreat a success. We were able to develop goals and objectives for the upcoming academic year. The "hostel" proved to be a good site to hold the retreat.
– Odelet N.; UIC

The students had an excellent time staying at the hostel. The service project was a very valuable addition to our Chicago visit. Many said it was their favorite part of the trip. We will definitely recommend the HI hostel and your services to other student groups at The Ohio State University.
– Lisa H.; OSU
Thanks so much for hosting our Campus Activities student – staff retreat at the Hostel. A beautiful location and a great host made for a successful event.
– Paul W., Northwestern U

A specialty of Hostelling International is travel education. Several workshops and lectures are presented regularly. Informative travel programs are offered in addition to educational topics which include Traveling Solo, Women Travelers, and for the beginning traveler, World Travel 101.