I am from the UK and am planning to visit Chicago early April for a few days ,perhaps staying at the Cass Hotel which is inexpensive but has been the subject of heavy criticism on this site in the past.I understand it has recently been the subject of some renovation and other sites claim it is a clean and basic hotel offering the best value in the near north area.I am not looking for luxury but would like to be sure it meets these new claims and that Washbash Ave is a safe area.Your views would be much appreciated.

I walked by it just yesterday and remembered seeing a lot about it on this site. The location is fine, it's near several decent hotels. Pretty convenient to Michigan Avenue. However, the building doesn't look all that great. Perhaps someone who stayed there can give you more info, but judging by the looks of it I'd be very skeptical and look for something else.

I work down the street from the Cass Hotel and it is in a safe area. I don't know much about the hotel but agree with the above poster that I never thought much about it just from walking by. There are many good restaurants in the area and it is close to Michigan Avenue shopping. Not sure what you are paying but there should be alot of hotel deals now that you can get from www.877chicago.com or maybe from quikbook.com.

Richard, there are a lot of internet sites offering discounts on Chicago hotels. Since I live here, I haven't seen the inside of too many hotels though. Last year I had two guests visit and I found them rooms at The Talbott for $105 and $109. While not terribly cheap, a great deal for a nice hotel in a good location. BTW, if you will be renting a car, inquire about parking. Fees can get up near $40 in some places.
Good luck and have a nice trip.

Beware that you may be the only non-wino there.

Richard-I would definately not stay at the Cass Hotel.
If you go to
http://www.my-hotel-reservation.com
they have a great deal at the Lenox
for $95 per night. It's in the same great location as the Cass Hotel. !
The Seneca Hotel offers a $97 rate on Expedia.com and is also in a great neighborhood. I've done alot of research on finding the best rates and find that Expedia usually has the cheaper rate out of all the other websites. Also, if you want to read traveler reviews, I would suggest Travelocity.com