Essex Inn Review

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Essex Inn

  • Address: 800 S. Michigan Ave., South Loop, Chicago, IL, 60605 | Map It
  • Phone: 800/621-6909
  • essexinn.com
Write a review | Avg. member rating: 2.4/5

Fodor's Review:

Don't judge this hotel on appearance alone: the nondescript, plain-brick tower containing small, boxlike guest rooms is actually one of the city's most accessible and family-friendly. Along with being a five-minute walk from the Museum Campus, it offers package deals with popular attractions such as the John G. Shedd Aquarium and Sears Tower. That said, you might not want to leave the hotel; its huge rooftop swimming pool is open year-round (note to anxious parents: a lifeguard is always on duty) and is surrounded by sliding-glass doors that open to views of Grant Park and Lake Michigan.

  • Hotel Details: 254 rooms
  • In-room: kitchen (some), refrigerator (some), Wi-Fi.
  • Credit Cards: AE, D, DC, MC, V
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Member Reviews and Ratings

Reviewed by Retired_teacher from Chicago NW suburbs on 6/10/08
Great area with some rooms overlooking Grant Park, the Museum Campus, and Lake Michigan. Another plus is that the Essex is within walking distance of all of the above attractions. The rooms themselves, however, are rather dated. Had a hard time opening the aging drapes so that we could view the city lights at night. We also found the bathroom to be rather small with old & tired fixtures. But for location, location on a budget the Essex will serve you well.

Member Rating: 2.4
Ratings details: Room: 2.0 Atmosphere: 3.0 Service: 2.0 Value: 3.0
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