54 Best Hotels in Chicago, Illinois

Background Illustration for Hotels

Chicago hotel rates are as temperamental as the city's climate. And just as snow in April and balmy weather in November are not uncommon, it is widely accepted that a hotel's room rates may drop $50 to $100 overnight—and rise again the next day. It all depends on the season and what festivals, conferences, and other events are happening around town.

Even so, it's wise to shop around. Focus on a neighborhood of interest, like the Near North Side, and you'll find budget chains such as Embassy Suites and luxury properties such as the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago within a few blocks of each other.

Ask yourself whether you'd rather be surrounded by the sedately dressed—think Trump International Hotel—or tattooed hipsters, à la the James Chicago. Is it romance you're seeking (try the Drake) or a quick weekend escape with the kids in tow (they can splash around the pool at the Radisson Blu Aqua, then walk a block to Millennium Park)?

On the lower end, expect well-maintained, but often boxy and sparsely decorated rooms. The good news is that free Wi-Fi is now a feature of most budget-friendly hotels, such as the Best Western or Holiday Inn chains, and local outfits like the Essex Inn.

Top-tier hotels have no problem filling their rooms: in some cases, this has little to do with amenities. Instead, their vibrant bar scenes are the draw, as is the case at the W Chicago–Lakeshore, W Chicago–City Center, the Wit, and the James Hotel. Rooms at these hot spots usually don't go for less than $250, but the "it" factor is huge. That said, between 2013 and 2015 the city saw a building boom that introduced some 2,700 new hotel rooms; the added competition may help lower prices and increase overall quality.

Ace Hotel Chicago

$$ | 311 N. Morgan St., Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
In a former life, this building was a cheesemaking company. Today, it's where the technorati and culturati convene; the super-trendy Ace Hotel brand has turned the concrete and glass structure into a wired and inspired industrial-cool escape.

Pros

  • Great nightlife scene
  • Easy access to West Loop galleries and restaurants
  • Rooms truly feel like an apartment

Cons

  • A bit on the fringe of the Loop action
  • No pool
  • No full-service spa
311 N. Morgan St., Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
312-764–1919
hotel Details
159 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel

$$ | 3434 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL, 60657, USA
Shutterstock

Centrally located in the Lakeview neighborhood, this Best Western offers all essential amenities at a reasonable price: the rate includes a free continental breakfast plus use of the business facilities and fitness center. Although there's little room to relax in the American colonial–style lobby, the actual accommodations are inviting enough; deluxe options come with whirlpool tubs. The hotel's front terrace becomes a place to see and be seen in the summer months, especially during street festivals.

Pros

  • Close to Wrigley Field and popular bars and restaurants
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Helpful staff

Cons

  • No on-site restaurant
  • Parking is not ideal
  • No pool
3434 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL, 60657, USA
888-675–2378
hotel Details
83 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $$

City Suites Hotel

$ | 933 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL, 60657, USA
Pedro Lastra | Unsplash

European travelers love this hotel for its residential feel; the rooms have black-and-white linens plus midcentury-inspired accents, and two-thirds of them have separate sitting areas with pull-out couches. The neighborhood is a safe and appealing escape from the downtown scene. The hotel's proximity to the El train, however, is both a blessing and a curse; you'll have easy access to downtown and the North Side, but the rumbling noise might be a pain at night. Amenities include a complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon cookies, tea and coffee all day, free Wi-Fi, and access to a nearby health club.

Pros

  • Flat-screen TVs in all rooms
  • Convenient to public transit
  • Great neighborhood

Cons

  • Rooms are on the small side
  • An underwhelming breakfast
  • Possible El noise
933 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL, 60657, USA
800-248–9108
hotel Details
45 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $

Recommended Fodor's Video

Dana Hotel and Spa

$$$ | 660 N. State St., Chicago, IL, 60654, USA
iStockphoto

Chic yet comfy, the guest rooms in this hot boutique hotel have an earthy palette and clean-lined wood fururnishings; it's ideal crash pad for the young trendy travelers that are seen buzzing around the lobby and also the innovative rooftop lounge, Apogee. In terms of sweeping views, it's tough to beat those from this hangout that attracts locals and visitor alike. Note that Dana makes creative use of recycled materials; the spa's flooring (made of crushed beer bottles) looks like high-end marble.

Pros

  • <PRO>the honor bar offers reasonably priced snacks and bottles of wine for less than $20</PRO>
  • <PRO>soothing on-site spa</PRO>
  • <PRO>hot nightlife scene</PRO>

Cons

  • <CON>rooms can be on the small side</CON>
  • <CON>some say the bathrooms don't allow for enough privacy</CON>
  • <CON>not very family friendly</CON>
660 N. State St., Chicago, IL, 60654, USA
312-202–6000
hotel Details
238 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals, Credit cards accepted

Quick Facts

Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North

$$$$ | 600 N. State St., Chicago, IL, 60654, USA
iStockphoto

Rooms here are arranged around an 11-story, plant-filled atrium lobby making efficient use of space. All suites have separate living rooms with a pullout sofa, four-person dining table, and an extra TV. A 24-hour business center, plus a complimentary full breakfast each morning and cocktails each evening are especially appealing to business travelers. The indoor pool and fitness center are added perks, as is the renowned on-site restaurant, Osteria Via Stato.

Pros

  • Great cocktail hour
  • Family friendly
  • Just three blocks from the Magnificent Mile

Cons

  • Rooms could use some updating
  • Pricey valet
  • External noise
600 N. State St., Chicago, IL, 60654, USA
312-943–3800
hotel Details
368 suites
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

$$$ | 120 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA Fodor's Choice
Aaron Burson | Unsplash

At the refined Four Seasons, guest rooms begin on the 30th floor (the hotel sits atop the tony 900 North Michigan Shops), so there's a distinct feeling of seclusion—and great views to boot. On the seventh floor, white marble and plenty of natural light flood the lobby where you’ll also find Adorn Bar & Restaurant and a lounge that hosts live entertainment and serves bar food all day. Guest rooms are all about comfort and style, with luxurious beds and marble bathrooms. There's a spa on site, with an indoor pool. 

Pros

  • In the middle of high-end shopping
  • 24-hour fitness room
  • Indoor pool

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Being so high up means that rooms can get a little noisy on windy days
  • Atmosphere can be overly formal at times
120 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-280–8800
hotel Details
343 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Freehand Chicago

$ | 19 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA

This 1927 building got a fresh new life as a combination upmarket hostel/traditional hotel that attracts the young and free spirited with a hot nightlife scene and city-apartment-style rooms. The vibe is boho-chic; the bar is end-all-be-all in tiki creativity. 

Pros

  • Locally loved bar scene
  • Affordable for the area
  • Walk to great shops and restaurants

Cons

  • No on-site spa
  • Better for social butterflies
  • Targeted for a young crowd
19 E. Ohio St., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-940–3699
hotel Details
217 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

Hilton Chicago

$ | 720 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60605, USA
iStockphoto

On a busy day the lobby of this Hilton might be mistaken for a terminal at O'Hare Airport; it's a bustling convention hotel, but one that retains its distinguished 1920s heritage in a Renaissance-inspired entrance hall and gold-and-gilt grand ballroom. Renovations completed in 2012 provided new dining and drinking options (the venerable Kitty O'Sheas bar remains), while renovations completed in 2015 lend a more modern look to 1,000-plus guest rooms. Nearly 200 have access to a refreshed executive lounge, where complimentary breakfasts and evening snacks are available. The 28,000-square-foot gym has enough room for an indoor track and swimming pool.

Pros

  • Close to the museum district
  • Well-appointed public spaces
  • A city icon

Cons

  • Fee for use of fitness area
  • Steep parking fees
  • Not the best choice for people seeking quiet and calm
720 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60605, USA
312-922–4400
hotel Details
1593 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown

$ | 506 W. Harrison St., Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
http://www.hidowntown.com/gallery.php

Not only is this Holiday Inn close to Chicago's main attractions, it's also within steps of CTA trains that go directly to either O'Hare or Midway airports. Decor-wise the rooms are a bit bland, but they’re comfortable and equipped with pillow-top mattresses, workspaces, and free Wi-Fi. That’s good news for the hordes of business travelers who are drawn here by the hotel’s proximity to the financial district; in summer months they and everyone else have an added incentive to visit—the rooftop pool. The on-site Sunny's Bar and Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Pros

  • Staff goes out of their way to be helpful
  • Convenient on-site washing machines and dryers
  • Great for budget-conscious families

Cons

  • The lobby can get quite crowded
  • Bathrooms are on the small side
  • No spa
506 W. Harrison St., Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
800-972–2494
hotel Details
145 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago-Downtown

$ | 40 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
Dining Area and Hotel Lodge
Pedro Lastra | Unsplash

The suites here seem custom-designed for families, with sleeper sofas, separate bedrooms, and fully equipped kitchens that feature full-size refrigerators and granite countertops. Free food isn't lacking; there's a complimentary hot breakfast seven days a week as well as an evening reception with drinks and a light meal Tuesday through Thursday (there's also a fitness center to work off those calories). Within walking distance of the Magnificent Mile shopping area, the hotel is just a short cab ride away from most other attractions.

Pros

  • Great view of skyline
  • Heated pool
  • Free, hot breakfast

Cons

  • Bathrooms feel cramped
40 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-644–2222
hotel Details
233 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

  • $

Hotel Cass, Holiday Inn Express

$ | 640 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
iStockphoto

With cheerful rooms and nicely designed public spaces, the Hotel Cass is a true boutique property that bears little resemblance to more generic branches in the Holiday Inn chain. The crisp white lobby is sparse and elegant, and the dramatic red hallway is offset with humorous portraits. Accommodations are modern and bright, with green headboards that nearly reach the ceiling and artwork that includes photos of 1950s fashion icons; subway-style tiles in the bathroom hark back to the 1920s.

Pros

  • <PRO>stellar location</PRO>
  • <PRO>good value</PRO>

Cons

  • <CON>some guests have complained of small rooms</CON>
  • <CON>crowded elevators</CON>
640 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-787–4030
hotel Details
175 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast, Credit cards accepted

Quick Facts

  • $

Hotel Lincoln

$$ | 1816 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, 60614, USA
https://www.facebook.com/HotelLincolnChicago/

Directly across from Lincoln Park, this historic property has a cool, kitschy vibe but still feels authentic, thanks to details like the original Hotel Lincoln sign in the lobby. Its guest rooms also combine vintage and modern elements, including original art; for the best views, ask for one on the ninth floor or above, facing east toward the park and the lake. Take in some of the city's best views over cocktails at the J. Parker rooftop lounge or grab a bite---dining options range from locally made pastries at casual Elaine’s Coffee Call to approachable American fare at the sleek Kennison restaurant to lavish 17-course feasts at Sushi Suite 202, an omakase “speakeasy” secreted inside a converted guest room.

Pros

  • Pet-friendly
  • Great residential neighborhood
  • Authentic vintage Chicago feel

Cons

  • A/c units are noisy
  • Bathrooms are small and dated
  • No spa
1816 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL, 60614, USA
312-254–4700-front desk
hotel Details
184 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Hotel Monaco Chicago

$$ | 225 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
https://www.facebook.com/HotelMonaco.Chicago/

A global-chic lobby featuring pops of color and texture (check out the high-gloss red alligator fabric on the registration desk) as well as rooms with steamer-trunk nightstands and Moroccan lamps inspire wanderlust. Another nice touch are the plush window seats. Complimentary high-end coffee is available each morning from 6 to 9, and guests are offered free wine each evening from 5 to 6.

Pros

  • Inspiring aesthetic
  • No extra charge for pets
  • Comfortable beds

Cons

  • Small gym for a hotel of this size
  • No on-site spa
  • Located on a often noisy corner of the Loop
225 N. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
312-960–8500
hotel Details
191 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Hotel Palomar Chicago

$$$ | 505 N. State, Chicago, IL, 60654, USA
Roman Arkhipov | Unsplash

In the middle of one of Chicago's most vibrant neighborhoods and close to Rush Street nightlife, this trendy hot spot delivers solid rooms and excellent cuisine. In the bright and inviting "living room" lobby, you'll be offered a complimentary glass of wine daily at 5 pm. Texture is everything here; the speckled woodwork adds a unique touch to the spacious and modern rooms. The bathrooms feel vaguely Zen, with spartan countertops and marble Jacuzzi tubs in the suites.

Pros

  • <PRO>hotel's bustling vibe matches its surroundings</PRO>
  • <PRO>great for the young and hip</PRO>
  • <PRO>Sable, the on-site restaurant, is worth a visit</PRO>

Cons

  • <CON>lobby is on the small side</CON>
  • <CON>no on-site spa</CON>
  • <CON>not targeted to families</CON>
505 N. State, Chicago, IL, 60654, USA
312-755–9703
hotel Details
261 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals, Credit cards accepted

Quick Facts

Hyatt Regency Chicago

$$ | 151 E. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
iStockphoto

A massive, light-filled lobby—part of a $168-million renovation—is the centerpiece of the Hyatt Regency Chicago, the city's largest hotel with 2,032 rooms in a prime downtown locale. Perched between the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, Millennium Park, and Michigan Avenue, the spot is perfect for business or leisure travelers. Technology updates offer computer screens for self check-in and checkout, as well as free Wi-Fi. Renovated rooms are modern and minimalist with crisp white linens. Stetson's, where sushi is as popular as steak, is definitely a cut above most hotel restaurants.

Pros

  • Great loyalty program
  • Excellent location
  • Great winter rates

Cons

  • There's always a lot of activity
  • Not designed for families
  • No on-site spa
151 E. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
312-565–1234
hotel Details
2032 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

$$ | 505 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA Fodor's Choice

Blessed with the double threat of sumptuous historic architecture and an enviable location on the Mag Mile, it's no shocker that this hotel has been going strong for around a century. So much to love, from the contemporary air of the guest rooms to the enormous swimming pool and well-stocked fitness center. The Shriner greeting "Es Salamu Aleikum" ("Peace Be to God") is etched on foyer columns, a reminder that it was once the Medinah Men's Athletic Club. In-house destinations include the popular Michael Jordan's Steakhouse and Eno, a wine, cheese, and chocolate bar.

Pros

  • Historic feel
  • Jaw-dropping pool
  • View of the Magnificent Mile

Cons

  • Concierge service is spotty
  • Enormity of the property can be overwhelming
  • Parking is pricey
505 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-944–4100
hotel Details
792 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

JW Marriott Chicago

$$$ | 151 W. Adams St., Chicago, IL, 60603, USA
iStockphoto

Mixing architectural elegance with a sleek modern style, this historic property has lots of gorgeous areas, from a bright and welcoming lobby bar to spacious guest rooms with high ceilings and marble baths. Built in 1914 as the Continental & Commercial National Bank, the Daniel Burnham–designed building is in the heart of the financial district and handy to Union Station. Its upscale Italian restaurant, the Florentine, is popular for business lunches and cocktails.

Pros

  • Blocks from Art Institute and Millennium Park
  • Use of 24-hour fitness center and pool
  • Very friendly staff

Cons

  • Lackluster views
  • Not a good option for families
  • Immediate neighborhood is not lively on weekends or evenings
151 W. Adams St., Chicago, IL, 60603, USA
888-238–2427
hotel Details
610 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Le Meridien Essex Chicago

$ | 800 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60605, USA Fodor's Choice
http://www.essexinn.com/gallery-en.html

Don't judge this place on appearance alone: the nondescript tower is actually one of the city's most family-friendly hotels, and its location—just five minutes by foot from the Museum Campus—is one reason why. It also offers easy access to nearby attractions like the Art Institute. The erstwhile Essex Inn underwent a $30 million renovation in 2019 that capitalized on its mid-century bona fides (the Essex opened in 1961); as of 2021, the hotel is part of Marriott's Le Meridien portfolio.

Loews Chicago Hotel

$$ | 455 N. Park Dr., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA

Nestled between Michigan Avenue and the lakefront, this hotel is loved by families for the suitelike accommodations and other offerings (game library, indoor pool, amenities for teens, tweens, and kids) that make boredom impossible. The on-site ETA Restaurant & Bar is a great place to spend the evening.

Pros

  • Goes all out for kids and families
  • Pets are welcome
  • Cool amenities like texting for anything you want

Cons

  • Spa is small with not much room to chill
  • Lobby can be busy at times
  • On a side street that is a bit hard to find
455 N. Park Dr., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-840–6600
hotel Details
300 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Longman & Eagle

$ | 2657 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago, IL, 60647, USA

The restaurant known for whiskey and nose-to-tail cuisine has opened a six-room inn by the same name, and each of these homey quarters is full of original art and handcrafted furnishings. No room has the same look and feel, but each is residentially styled to appeal to the young travelers who stay here to be in the middle of a cool neighborhood scene. Comfortable and welcoming, it's like crashing at your (very tidy and organized) best friend's pad.

Pros

  • Award-winning restaurant downstairs
  • Great local feel
  • No two rooms are the same

Cons

  • Need to take a 15-minute El ride downtown
  • No concierge or public amenities
  • Not kid-friendly
2657 N. Kedzie Ave., Chicago, IL, 60647, USA
773-276–7110
hotel Details
6 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel

$$ | 163 E. Walton Pl., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
https://www.facebook.com/MillenniumKnickerbockerChicago/

This 1927 hotel has had a number of identities—including the Speak Easy for Ralph Capone to a 1970s stint as the Playboy Hotel and Towers under owner Hugh Hefner; these days the guest rooms sport a gold, beige, plum, and espresso color palette. Your downtime is well spent in the Lobby Bar, which offers seasonally inspired cocktails and live jazz piano most nights.

Pros

  • Location can't be beat
  • Generously sized rooms
  • Classic Chicago glamour

Cons

  • Quality of rooms is inconsistent
  • No on-site spa
  • Vibe can be overly formal
163 E. Walton Pl., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-751–8100
hotel Details
306 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Omni Chicago Hotel

$$ | 676 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
Exterior Nighttime
iStockphoto

The only all-suites hotel on Michigan Avenue has a lot going for it: every room is a good size, and French doors separate the living room from the bedroom, making them feel more like apartments. It's a smart choice for extended stays or family trips—most rooms have pull-out couches, and all have multiple TVs plus MP3 plug-ins; at check-in young travelers also receive a backpack with goodies and games to keep. If you want to dine on-site, the 676 Restaurant & Bar has Midwestern-style American cuisine and views overlooking Michigan Avenue.

Pros

  • Modern, comfortable rooms with spacious sitting area, desk, and bar
  • Easy access to top shopping
  • Family-friendly

Cons

  • Hotel can be too noisy for some
  • No on-site spa
  • Hard to find a room in high season
676 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-944–6664
hotel Details
347 suites
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Park Hyatt Chicago

$$$ | 800 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA Fodor's Choice
Roman Arkhipov | Unsplash

This Gold Coast star still dominates the skyline above the old Water Tower and the views are as spectacular as ever following a $60-million renovation to all of its guestrooms and suites in early 2022. Inspired by the adjacent Water Tower Park, the redesign includes a soothing color palette and organic materials. The NoMI Garden bar and restaurant on the seventh floor serves contemporary American and global dishes; its popular outdoor area welcomes alfresco diners in summer. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel's soothing NoMI Spa.

Pros

  • Updated, modern rooms
  • Baths and soaking tubs that open up to the rest of the guestroom/suite
  • Known as a foodie destination

Cons

  • Some people complain of street noise and slow elevators
  • Can be too formal for some
  • Hard to nab a room in high season
800 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-335–1234
hotel Details
182 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

Pendry Chicago

$$ | 230 Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA

City history and contemporary design come together with stylish elegance at the Pendry Chicago, in the iconic 1929 art deco Carbide and Carbon Building. The minimalist decor with gold accents compliment the original building design making guest rooms feel bright and modern. The ground-floor restaurant, Venteux, and the rooftop bar, Château Carbide, highlight French cuisine.

Pros

  • Great location
  • 24-hour fitness center
  • Rooftop bar

Cons

  • Some traffic noise in street-facing rooms
  • Standard rooms are small
  • No fridge or microwave in rooms
230 Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
312-777--9000
hotel Details
364 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Public Chicago

$$ | 1301 N. State Pkwy., Chicago, IL, 60610, USA Fodor's Choice

With iMacs in the lobby, free Wi-Fi throughout, bikes for borrowing at the front door, and generously sized, minimalist cream-and-white guest rooms, what was once the slightly faded Ambassador East is now hip and sleek. The location is as stellar as always, and the Booth One restaurant design is all new. Other on-site perks include a fitness center on the 11th floor and a screening room with plenty of plush couches off the Library Bar. A free breakfast for kids (accompanied by cartoons) fills the space on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Pros

  • <PRO>close to North Avenue Beach, nightlife, and downtown</PRO>
  • <PRO>friendly, jeans-clad staff</PRO>
  • <PRO>hotelier Ian Schrager's trademark glamour</PRO>

Cons

  • <CON>smallish bathrooms</CON>
  • <CON>mocha-colored walls and ceilings and subtle lighting make the hallways dark</CON>
  • <CON>a bit removed from the downtown action</CON>
1301 N. State Pkwy., Chicago, IL, 60610, USA
312-787–3700
hotel Details
285 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Radisson Blu Aqua

$$ | 221 N. Columbus Dr., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA Fodor's Choice
Shutterstock

With design savvy inside as well as out, this gem breathes life into an 82-story skyscraper designed by revered architect Jeanne Gang. Indoor and outdoor pools, a game room, a movie screening room, a well-equipped fitness center, and lush landscaping on outdoor terraces are all part of the deal. The location is a winner, too, as it's close to Millennium Park and Michigan Avenue. Eight PCs and a conference room in the business center make this as good a fit for road warriors as it is for families with kids and pets. The lobby-level bar is bright and welcoming.

Pros

  • Great location
  • Unique design
  • Friendly

Cons

  • Room keycards need to be swiped quickly in the elevator, or you're sent off to the lobby
  • No full-service spa
  • Hard to nab rooms in high season
221 N. Columbus Dr., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
800-333–3333
hotel Details
334 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Raffaello Hotel

$ | 201 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
https://www.facebook.com/raffaellochicago/

Location is a big draw for visitors to this hotel near the Magnificent Mile; inside you'll find spacious, comfortable rooms in neutral shades, with modern-looking bathrooms and superlative city views.The clientele is international but also includes suburbanites eager for a city fix. Don't linger in the small lobby—with little more than a check-in desk and a few chairs, there's not much excitement there; ascend instead to the 18th floor, where Drumbar offers craft cocktails, roaring fireplaces in winter, and a bustling patio in warmer weather.

Pros

  • <PRO>rooms are comfortable and elegant</PRO>
  • <PRO>bathrooms with rain showers</PRO>
  • <PRO>a nice break from the chains</PRO>

Cons

  • <CON>some guests have complained of long waits for elevators</CON>
  • <CON>no on-site spa</CON>
  • <CON>no on-site pool</CON>
201 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-943–5000
hotel Details
242 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals, Credit cards accepted

Quick Facts

  • $

Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel

$$ | 1 W. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
Shutterstock

Perched on prime real estate on the south bank of the Chicago River, this cosmopolitan spot is shouldered by high-rises but you can enjoy still enjoy fantastic views of the Chicago skyline right from your room. Stay on the slightly pricier club levels for complimentary weekday access to a private business center, continental breakfast, hors d'oeuvres, and nonalcoholic drinks.

Pros

  • Excellent service, even when the hotel is packed to capacity
  • Spacious rooms are a good value
  • Great location

Cons

  • Can get pricey during high season
  • No full-service spa
  • Tends to be always-bustling
1 W. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL, 60601, USA
312-372–7200
hotel Details
553 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown

$ | 505 N. State Street, Chicago, IL, 60654, USA

Steps from iconic Chicago attractions, the Royal Sonesta has some of the largest standard guest rooms in Chicago, many with a river or city view. Amenities include a restaurant with outdoor patio dining, a 24-hour fitness center, and a lobby market for snacks and drinks. 

Sheraton Grand Chicago

$$ | 301 E. N. Water St., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
Sheraton Grand Chicago
Pedro Lastra | Unsplash

An urban sanctuary amid iconic attractions, this hotel calls out to families with its generously sized rooms and indoor pool. Business travelers appreciate the large amount of meeting space, while everyone loves the Chicago Burger Company, a lively riverfront restaurant. There's also a fitness center, sun deck, and dry sauna.

Pros

  • A short walk from Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park
  • A reasonable cab ride away from major museums
  • Great for families

Cons

  • A bit too bustling for those seeking an intimate escape
  • Parking is pricey
  • Fees for all FedEx business center usage
301 E. N. Water St., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
312-464–1000
hotel Details
1218 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$