On my many stays in Chicago, I had never stayed north of the river. I suppose the reason was that good deals at the time I wanted to go seemed to be in the Loop. But this time, we ventured across the green water and stayed at the Residence Inn Chicago Downtown/River North.
Residence Inn River North
The hotel is Just a block north of the river and four blocks west of Michigan Avenue, and locations don’t get much better than that. Best of all, we didn’t have to pay the $38 a night, since we took an Amtrak Train and a slightly longer than expected taxi ride. Helpful hint: Mention that the Residence Inn is on Dearborn, otherwise, you may be taken to a different one.
The lobby is on the second floor and there are actually two check-in desks, one for the Residence Inn and one for the Springhill Suites. The RI is on the right. The staff was friendly each time we interacted with them. The lobby was immaculate with views of the corner of Dearborn and Kinzie. A fireplace anchors the center of the room with televisions on either side. I didn’t spend much time hanging out in the lobby, but it was quiet every time except breakfast.
Residence Inn River North
Our room, 405, was a suite. The Residence Inn is an all-suite hotel, but ours was a true suite, meaning with had a door between the living area and the bedroom, very handy since our 3-year old was with us. Each room also has a kitchenette, and the refrigerator came in very handy to store our leftovers from the Grand Lux Café.
Residence Inn River North
Our room was quiet, except for the very-early morning trash pickup. And why was our room quiet? Take a look at our stunning view:
Residence Inn River North
Sadly, this is not the worst view we’ve had from a hotel room. The Hotel Monaco wins that honor. Instead of a parking ramp, it was a blank wall, but at least we could open the curtains and not have people looking into our room.
We had absolutely no problems with noise. At times, it seems like we were the only ones on our floor. Which I knew was not true, since my parents were staying across the hall from us.
On the 27th floor is the fitness center and pool. Numerous cardio machines look into the pool area which, at the time of our stay, was a haven for small children, including mine. The water is a little cold, but the view is fantastic. And towels are provided so you don’t have to take the ones from the room.
There is an excellent at the breakfast buffet. Both mornings I went for the waffles. There is also fruit, juice, eggs, sausage, various breads and cereals, and other choices as well. And once again, the staff was exceedingly nice. So tip the wait staff, people.
I would definitely stay at the Residence Inn River North again. The location was great, the room spacious and clean, and the staff was outstanding.