just to get you started. :)
Days Inn Chicago (Northside)
644 W DIVERSEY PARKWAY Chicago, IL 60614
not bad price. Located in the heart of Chicago. Bars, restaurants, clubs, 1 bus trip but 10 minutes to downtown, close to the Aragon.
Travelodge Hotel Downtown
http://www.heartochicago.com/ This one is blocks away from where I live. safe neighborhood, white castle nearby ;) Close to all major transportation spots. I think my dad stayed here when he got into a fight with my mom for a night like 10 yrs ago. Not great place but cheap J
and there are plenty of motels on Lincoln ave. I can look in the yellow pages to get numbers and prices and stuff.