Catching a live show at the United Center is an electric experience. From the roar of the crowd during a playoff game to the bass drop at a sold-out concert, the energy on Madison Street is unmatched. However, the logistics of getting to and from the venue can often be the most stressful part of the night.
Navigating Chicago traffic, finding affordable parking, or waiting in long rideshare queues can quickly dampen your pre-show excitement. That is why choosing the right accommodation is crucial to maximizing your experience. Staying within walking distance allows you to soak in the atmosphere without worrying about how you are getting home.
The area surrounding the United Center has seen significant revitalization in recent years. While it was once primarily an industrial zone, the West Loop and Near West Side now boast some of the city’s best dining and nightlife. By booking a hotel nearby, you position yourself perfectly to enjoy a pre-show dinner and a post-show drink.
Whether you are looking for a luxury boutique experience or a reliable budget-friendly brand, there is an option for you. The key is balancing proximity with the amenities that matter most to you. After all, a great night’s sleep is the perfect encore to a high-energy event.
We have analyzed the local hospitality landscape to bring you the best options based on location, guest reviews, and value. This guide focuses on hotels that offer the easiest access to the arena, ensuring your focus remains on the music. Here are the top choices for your next concert trip.
Hotel Chicago West Loop
| Address | 1622 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60612 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 243-2900 |
I liked this cozy hotel!
Pros:
• No trouble with parking
• Check in went smoothly
• Room was cozy small-ish, but looked nice
• Roomy shower
• BIG refrigerator
• Microwave (the last place I stayed had no fridge or microwave, if you can believe it)
• Walkable to some decent affordable restaurants
• Coffee drinkers rejoice: the coffee machine in the lobby is the kind that grinds the beans fresh for every cup.
Cons:
• The pillows! They look great in a picture, but are too overstuffed for a comfortable sleep. I used my little airplane pillow, instead. My friend woke up with a sore neck and back.
• Key cards never worked at the front door. Luckily there was always someone at the front desk to buzz us
in.
• They have a good a/c system and a ceiling fan, but it was tricky to find the right combo for a comfortable sleep.
• Complimentary breakfast is a bad joke - instant oatmeal, granola bars, breakfast cookies - but the coffee machine is nice!
• Carpet in the stairways is WORN, but whatever.
Overall, the price was right, location was fine, and I'd return, but with my own pillow.
Room was a bit small but had everything I needed for an overnight stay. Got to check in early thanks to the nice staff gentlemen at the counter, which was nice because we would have had to lug our bags around. This let us check out a few restaraunts and make it to our concert at the United Center on time. If I come out to Chicago for another concert at the United Center I will gladly stop here again.
First time in Chicago. The hotel staff was so friendly, helped us newbies navigate the city. We were able to check in a little early, had on-site parking, let us park the next day til 4 to go explore. Staff was so friendly at check in and checking out. Room was clean. Hotel was secure and well lit at night. Would definitely stay here again.
*Note: only complaint but not enough to knock a star. It did sound like it was raining outside but it wasn't not sure where it came from. So played some light music to drown it out.**
Arrived on the day of my reservation to learn that they had cancelled it!! 24 hours earlier they tried to charge $1 to my credit card but it was declined. The front desk employee claimed they tried to call me at that time, but according to my phone's call log there were no calls. So they gave my room to someone else & had no other rooms available.
As somebody who stays in hotels two to three times a month typically, I cannot speak highly enough about the customer service I received here.
Griffen went above and beyond to make sure I had a comfortable stay. I called nine different hotels and she was the only person who was not only accommodating, but was beyond kind while being so. Whomever is her boss should be grateful to have an employee who actually cares about hosting with care. I will be returning and recommending this place for the foreseeable future.
Hyatt Place Chicago – Medical / University District
| Address | 1835 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 341-1234 |
Professional and Compassionate
I'm not even sure where to begin. My family had a medical emergency that required care with Rush Neurology. Not knowing if our loved one would survive, we had to make decisions quickly and needed a place to stay. This is not the cheapest area to find a place to stay but we were desperate and took the closest to the medical center.
Once we spoke with the staff and explained our situation they were extremely helpful and so very compassionate. We cannot express our gratitude enough. Many tears have been shed and a few of your staff shed them with us.
They accommodated our need for the various people that traveled from out of state to help with day and night shift stays at the hospital.
The breakfast provided was fantastic and they allowed us to make a to-go container for our night shift help.
They even helped with some of the financial costs of the room for the stay. We would have continued to stay if not for accommodations provided by another friend.
I highly recommend the Hyatt and we love your staff. This is a big shout out to Toni, Steven, Anne, Marie, Mireya and Alondra.
You have all unknowingly become part of our care team through this on going battle.
Thank you all so much and may God bless you!
The pros - check in staff was extremely friendly and knowledgeable, self parking is a good price at $35/night, location to United center (within walking distance)
The cons - the first room we were put in the toilet was very dirty and hadn’t seemed to have been cleaned from the previous guest. We were then moved to a different room and the second room was covered in white pet hair which was pretty disappointing, the shower would not shut off completely and was dripping the entire night. The carpets in the hallways on each floor was very very dirty with little pieces of trash and definitely needs to be vacuumed more frequently.
Overall this hotel is a good option for when you are going to a concert at United center.
I had a nice stay at the Hyatt Chicago. The hotel was clean, comfortable, and the location was convenient. Overall, I enjoyed my stay and the experience was good. That said, it wasn’t my favorite hotel in Chicago—there are a few others I would choose first. Still, I’d consider staying here again.
I had a wonderful stay at Hyatt Place Chicago Medical/University District and would absolutely recommend it!
While it’s not right in the middle of downtown Chicago, the location was still very convenient—especially being close to the United Center—and the overall area was very nice, which made for a really comfortable stay.
The hotel itself was clean, modern, and very well maintained. My room felt cozy and relaxing, with everything I needed to unwind after a long day.
One of the highlights was definitely the free breakfast buffet—plenty of good options and a great way to start the morning without having to rush out for food.
What really stood out, though, was the staff. Every single person I interacted with was friendly, welcoming, and genuinely helpful. They made the whole experience feel easy and stress-free.
Overall, this was a very comfortable and pleasant stay, and I would happily stay here again next time I’m in Chicago. A solid 5-star experience!
I had a really great stay at Hyatt Place Chicago. I was here about 3 months ago. The hotel felt very well maintained and honestly much fancier than I expected. Everything was super clean, modern, and high quality. One of my favorite parts was the view especially seeing the United Center from the hotel.
The breakfast was really good every morning with plenty of options, and the staff provided awesome service the whole time. Everyone was friendly, helpful, and made the stay even better. The location was also extremely convenient, especially if you’re going to an event or game at the United Center. I’d definitely stay here again!
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC
| Address | 710 S Seeley Ave, Chicago, IL 60612 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (464) 768-0200 |
We stayed here for my babygirl’s 7th birthday, and the experience was more than I imagined! The staff was AMAZING!!!
The pool is heated to the point where it almost felt like a jacuzzi, which made it so comfortable. And the breakfast? OMG! Red velvet chocolate chip waffles!!! They also have a coffee and hot chocolate bar available throughout the day, along with plenty of other options.
Honestly, everything about our stay exceeded my expectations!
A special thank you to Robin, Ashley, Rana, and Mike for making my daughter’s birthday unforgettable! I had to make sure I got everyone’s names because every single one of them was so pleasant. It’s honestly rare to find a place where the entire staff gives the same level of kindness and great service.
Thank you all so much for making our stay so special! 10/10, highly recommend!!! 💕
We had a fantastic stay! The location was perfect, just a 12-minute walk to the United Center, which made getting to and from the event incredibly convenient.
The complimentary breakfast was outstanding, and the staff truly went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable, especially the front desk team. Their friendliness and helpfulness made a lasting impression.
One of my favorite perks was the delicious coffee, which was available free of charge all day. It's a small touch that made a big difference. We would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it!
The hotel is modern, very clean, and conveniently located just a short walk from the CTA Blue Line, making it easy to reach downtown Chicago and O'Hare Airport. The rooms were spacious, comfortable, and well maintained, and the breakfast offered an excellent variety each morning.
What truly made our stay exceptional was the staff. Everyone was welcoming, professional, and genuinely helpful.
We would especially like to thank the team for their outstanding assistance during our stay. Their willingness to receive, hold, and help coordinate everything went far beyond what we expected and made a stressful situation much easier.
We highly recommend this hotel to both individual travelers and groups visiting Chicago. Thank you for making our stay so enjoyable—we hope to return in the future!
I've stayed at a lot of Hampton Inn's over the years and this was one of the best experiences I've ever had. The hotel is relatively new. The rooms are huge. They have windows that open with a screen which is so nice. I often find hotel rooms stuffy with all of the recirculated air. Being able to crack open a window is such a luxury and makes a huge difference in how I feel. Front desk staff are friendly and helpful. The whole place was spotless. You couldn't ask for a better location. All three hospitals are within quick walking distance as are the pink line and the blue line. Plenty of food options literally across the street. Well done Hampton Inn! Well done!
We reserved a room at this hotel just a few weeks before a major concert at United Center, and it exceeded our expectations. Is it cheap? NO. But no (decent) hotels in Chicago are, especially during the mid-summer concert/sports season. The fact that it was easy to get to--just a couple blocks off the highway--and within an easy 10-15 minute walk to the U.C.--justified the price relative to hotels farther away that would've required either driving or Uber'ing to get back to the venue. Although parking is an extra cost, the price is "Chicago reasonable", and there is plenty of it. We found a (surface) parking spot just yards from the entrance--no parking garage validation hassle required at this hotel. Our (standard) room was *massive*, with enough extra space to have easily fit a 4-person table and chairs if they wanted to, with room to spare. Although the hotel was full of concert-goers like us, we never heard a single noise from either our "neighbors" or the hallway, so if you are a light sleeper, worry not. You'll sleep soundly. We also appreciated that they put the ice machines in a dedicated, doored room off the elevators to minimize noise. And towels? So many towels!
The staff was extremely friendly and efficient, including the people who staffed the breakfast buffet the next morning (aside: if you have the option to choose "included" breakfast in your reservation, just take it). The selection was well above average--quite good for a hotel buffet--and there were plenty of seats/tables for us to sit and eat. Most importantly, they kept replenishing everything right up to the last minute.
I realize the per-night cost of this hotel is jarringly high to many of us, but frankly anything cheaper will be abysmal in comparison. As someone who suffers from analysis paralysis for these kind of decisions, I can tell you this is your best option for any overnight stay before or after any event at United Center.
The Godfrey Hotel Chicago
| Address | 127 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 649-2000 |
Great location and entrance. The rooms are just ok. New but low budget for sure. Missing sheer curtains in the windows, obvious wall repairs, the shower floor was INCREDIBLY slick and had a crack, the sink doesn’t drain fast enough to keep up with the faucet, and the soaps are all the large bottles that housekeeping refills.
The hallways weren’t vacuumed at all during our 2 nights/3 days there.
The desk staff during the daytime is very polite and helpful but the same cannot be said for the night shift.
We were able to check in early which was a huge bonus. We also used their luggage check service free of charge after check out and before our departure from the city allowing us to use the remaining hours we had to spare without toting around bags.
The location is what sells it. Smack in the middle of everything you want to do with great views of the city all the way around. Less than a 10 minute walk to most major attractions and landmarks. Public transit is also close by along with an electric rent-a-bike station powered by lift across the street. Those are a must try!
We checked into the hotel for a family vacation. Upon arrival, we were greeted with friendliness and a slight wet smell. Once we checked into the room and began unpacking, we noticed that couch and floors were dirty and moist. After moving into the sleeping area, we noticed there was what appeared to be gelatinous bodily fluids on the curtains next to the bed. We “Immediately” asked to be moved to another room. We were moved into another room which was slightly cleaner, but still not as clean as we are used to in hotels. The AC did not work properly and the sleeping area was warm, while the adjoining sitting area was cool. We figured this was as good as it gets here. After our stay, our flight was delayed about an hour after we checked out. We asked to rebook the room for another night. We were asked to pay approximately 1,000 a night for a room we initially paid about $300 per night. Hugo, the front desk representative was apathetic and there was no manager on duty to assist. We opted to make other arrangements. We won’t be staying here again.
I went to the rooftop lounge and the 2 hostess was not very welcoming. I made reservations then said they didn't have my reservation even tho I had the confirmation. As we was being seated the hostess tried to put me and my party way in the corner. The seat I wanted the hostess first said it was reserved for another party, then told me it was very expensive to sit there. I said how much then the hostess told me I would have to buy a bottle. Then the hostess said she would need to hold on to my credit card and ID. I gave my ID and credit card, then she said with disgust the seats are over there. I told her to escort us over there now that whole interaction really made me feel unwelcomed, but I didn't let it ruin the night. The place is really nice the champagne was good and the food was also we had the wagyu steak burgers. My waitress was ok, but I didn't like her telling me how expensive it was to visit Bulgaria when I inquired about her home country, and expressed wanting to visit that country some day. I was pleased with her service and pictures she took of me and my party. The bartender was nice also, but the bus boys were kind of rude maybe they didn't like me speaking to them in Spanish. I will say this the valet driver was phenomenal he gave great service. I like ambiance so much I might go back to give the staff a chance to redeem themselves, but they really need to learn how to treat a player when he come through the door.
We stayed here a couple weeks ago. Starting with positives. The location is great and you are close to a lot of food and attractions. The rooftop was nice and the food was average. That being said, the rooms were tiny and service was awful especially the valet. They scratched our car and have so far refused to take any responsibility . They made us fill out a form and nobody got back to us in the time frame they said they would. Come to find out they never even submitted this form to their manager. We have called and emailed several times and whoever we are talking to has resorted to threatening us. They do not want to pay for their mistake despite our vehicle being in great condition and them returning it with what was very clearly a parking garage accident of some sort. I intend to take this to the furthest level I can take it because the audacity is crazy.
Booked a suit and immediately noticed a foul smell on arrival. The sheets were dirty. And what i’m really mad about is (photo attached) I got out of the shower and although they provided a robe, they didn’t provide slippers so I walked around the hotel room as I was getting ready, which is fine, but when I was putting my heels on, I noticed how dirty the bottom of my feet were. It’s almost like those floors have never been cleaned. It was absolutely disgusting. Definitely wish i picked somewhere different but for some reason i thought the Godfrey was nice. You would think the floors would be clean especially in the suits. 5 stars for service because the bartender on the roof was great. 4 stars for location because there is a lot of food and entertainment in River north but sketchy at night.
Freehand Chicago
| Address | 19 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 940-3699 |
This place was hard to find for us as it is one set of doors with the name (Freehand) in red kind of smeared font. The rooms were smaller than I expected but beds were perfect size for 1 person to sleep very comfortable and for 2 to sleep good if you dont toss and turn much. Great location and clean rooms. Comfortable but small. Definitely good room if you just need a bed to sleep. There were hangouts down on the lobby level that looked fun. Not a bad experience, but if you dont need a spacious room. This could be for you.
This hotel is so cool and swanky! Absolutely love the ambience. The lounge is super lush and beautiful. The rooms (at least our private quad) was cool but doesn’t have amenities like coffee maker, fridge, microwave. For the price and location definitely worth it! Beds were comfy!
I loved the location of this place, it’s right next to the train station which can take you all over town quickly! The front desk staff service was nice as well as the bar staff, Stacy was amazing! I would definitely come back to see her, she was a great help in local recommendations. The room was just okay tbh. Nothing crazy, didn’t smell the cleanest , the bathroom was really small but could just be the room I picked. Overall 8/10 stay
I had a wonderful stay at the Freehand. As a solo femme presenting person traveling, I felt very safe and had fun. The staff made my stay all the more enjoyable. Gia at the bar was amazing! She is so personable and knows how to make a great espresso martini. It was so fun getting to talk to her and other travelers at the bar each morning. The customer service skills of all the staff are 1000/10 as the front desk ladies also made me feel very well taken care of. I had a great birthday trip at the freehand. It’s a block away from the redline so it is very convenient for traversing the rest of Chicago. Would recommend for solo femme travelers.
The hotel staff is very kind, especially Dana! She was super helpful and kind! I think the pictures of the quadruple private room are kind of deceiving in the sense that the room is really tiny. Despite this, the experience has been great so far and the location is basically walkable distance from everything! Thanks Dana for your kindness!
Ambassador Gold Coast - The Chicago Hotel Collection
| Address | 1301 N State Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60610 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 748-1301 |
Very nice hotel, clean and ample. Had all the toiletries needed and I enjoyed the tub! The rooftop was awesome as I discovered it on my own. At check in, the representative was very short with me and did not say much information about the hotel and I had issues figuring out how the elevator worked using the room key card. The bar/restaurant was lovely and the staff very kind when I asked for hot water for tea late at night. The location is fabulous and easy to navigate to grocery stores, buses and loved the tunnel underpass to get to the beach. I had a fabulous experience and will return next time. Very peaceful neighborhood!
My stay was extremely disappointing. I traveled to Chicago for a mix of business and leisure—to enjoy the museums, food, and a concert—and expected a welcoming, respectful hotel experience. Instead, as two young Black women, we felt unnecessarily rushed, unwelcome, and disrespected.
The housekeeper on our floor, Wendy, repeatedly banged on our door beginning at 8:00 AM despite our confirmed 1:00 PM late checkout. She even stepped into our room to insist that checkout was at 12:00 PM, then returned multiple times and waited outside our room until 1:00 PM. When I reported this to Annie at the front desk, my concerns were dismissed.
The condition of Room 1402 only added to the disappointment. There were stains throughout the carpet and on the blinds, and the room had a strong, unpleasant odor, almost as if the carpet had been wet and never fully dried
We were not in Chicago to party or cause trouble. We were simply travelers who came to enjoy the city, attend a concert, handle business, and spend our money at this hotel. Unfortunately, the experience left us feeling unwelcome and questioning whether our age and race influenced the level of hospitality we received. I would not recommend this hotel.
The location was really good right up the street from shopping, the beach, and actually a nice community.
See you again Chicago just never here. Why advertise and make content to get people here for such a terrible experience, environment, and staff
I'm not sure why the rating is so low for this hotel because it is such an absolutely wonderful place. I have stayed three times in past few months and the staff always go above and beyond to make sure my companions and myself are taken care of and pleased. Jenny Garcia in particular is an angel. During breakfast she goes to every table making sure everyone is satisfied with their meals and has such a positive and helpful energy. My mom was sick and she remembered the next day at breakfast and even brought her a tea. The rooms are clean and spacious and it is so cool knowing the history of this hotel and knowing that it is being taken care of by such wonderful people.
While this was not the property we made a reservation at we ended up staying here & am so glad we did. The staff was simply the best! So nice, so accommodating! A huge shout out to William at the front desk who did everything to make us feel better about being moved to the property. The room was comfy, great walls as we didn't hear anyone else, great shower pressure & location. We visit Chicago frequently & will definitely be staying here again.
First off, let me start by saying how amazing this location is! You will feel lucky to have booked this stay for the wonderful neighborhood, the proximity to Lincoln park, the beach, Gold Coast eateries, and even the Riverwalk and Magnificent Mile. If you have 10-20k steps in you, you can have a day trip like no other. I had one day here and was able to easily walk to all of these locations and then some.
Hotel has a classic vibe, historic charm, and great lobby bar. The rooms are spacious, and updated, but lacking character and could have used a more detailed cleaning for my standard. I hope they can upgrade their room furnishings to match the rest of the hotel esthetic. Overall, happy with the stay and would stay again.
Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop by IHG
| Address | 25 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60661 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 829-5000 |
I have had several wonderful stays at the Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop. The hotel was clean, comfortable, and in a great location with easy access to restaurants and everything I needed during my visit. The staff was consistently friendly and welcoming, making me feel at home from the moment I arrived.
A special thank you to Tiana, who truly went above and beyond. Her kindness, professionalism, and genuine desire to make sure guests have a great experience did not go unnoticed. It's employees like Tiana who turn a good hotel stay into a memorable one. She is an incredible asset to the Crowne Plaza team.
I would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Chicago.
My first night started off rough only because of one the staffers were rude, but it was all made up by the rest of the staff. They had pretty great attitude and also very helpful. I love the location is located in a great spot close to downtown the room was clean. Shower was great. Ended up having breakfast there and it was also nice and the people were very sweet and helpful at the restaurant overall, I would definitely go back and stay there mostly because of the location and of course the staff was great except for the one incident we had . Overall, I’ll give it 10 out of 10 for my vacation hopefully will be back soon
Nothing about this hotel makes it 4 ⭐️ worthy. The entire hotel is non-smoking, yet as soon as you exit the elevator the halls reek of weed. Our room was dated and smelled horribly of dog pee as if the carpets haven’t been cleaned in ages with deodorizer. If you are wanting this location, then I’m sure it’s great but you can hear all of the road noise, so if a quiet hotel is what you’re after, this isn’t it. After our flight being canceled, this is the first hotel we could find at midnight within an 8 mile radius of the airport and we had hoped it would be a decent one. I do have to say Regina at the front desk was helpful and responsive in listening to my concerns, so that aspect was great.
I had a wonderful experience at this hotel, thanks in a large part to the outstanding staff. Regina at the front desk provided exceptional customer service. She was friendly, professional, and made me feel welcome from the moment I arrived.
I’d also like to recognize Roxeanne in the breakfast area for her helpfulness and positive attitude. She went out of her way to ensure i had a great start to my day.
Both Regina and Roxeanne are true assets to the hotel. Their hospitality made my stay memorable, and I look forward to returning.
Thanks,
N. Harris 6/4-6/7
I usually do not complete reviews but I am so irritated that I had to. I wanted to find a nice location that was close to the medical district were I work. For this to be a 4 star hotel, I was not impressed at all. My first interaction was the front desk agent which was not a friendly one. The other customers were talking loudly and she was speaking to me in such a low tone. I needed to hear because she was explaining the parking situation and the associated costs. I politely asked could she speak up and she clearly let me know she was irritated. I'm like whatever, I'm not going to let that bother me. The room was dated. I guess I expected more for over $350 a night. I'm like whatever, it is what it is. I go to get ice and the ice machine does not work. At this time, I made the decision to leave in the morning although I paid for two nights. I received a text asking how my stay was, and I responded honestly that I wasn't impressed and left and gave them my reasons. They stated they would email me my receipt.
A week later, they still have not emailed me my receipt. I called the hotel because my card was not credited back the incidentals. I was told because I did third party booking they couldn't find the confirmation???? WTH??? I received the run around and still never received my receipt from Crown Plaza. Avoid this place at all costs. Word of mouth is powerful and I will let everyone at work know about my experience.
Hyatt House Chicago - Medical / University District
| Address | 1835 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60612 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 341-1234 |
Hubs and I booked this hotel for the price and location to Soldier Field Stadium. We came to Chicago as first timers to see Ed Sheeran and Ellie Banke. I had not slept much before driving in and we were able to check in early at 11 instead of 3. That allowed me to take a nap before the performance. Limited paid parking in the back, but it’s close to the entrance. The bed was soft and so were the pillows. The blanket I think was down feathers. Would definitely have stayed longer had we been able to. The entrance is in the back and when you walk in it’s huge with a staircase. Valerie G. was who checked us in and she was so nice and friendly. Even gave me 2 bottles of water with check in! I definitely plan on using this hotel when we go back to visit the Bean!
This is a beautiful hotel, located close to the West Side but in a very nice area with parks and safe neighborhoods. The building appears to be older but looks like it's been renovated recently - the inside is lovely and spacious and beautifully decorated. Most of the front desk people were kind and attentive and the complimentary bottles of water on check-in were very appreciated!
My room was larger than expected for an older building and had a very soft plushy bed (too soft for my tastes, but some people appreciate a very soft bed). The room was very clean, had no weird smells, and had a nice view of the park across the street. The bathroom was nice with pretty tile and a lovely glass walk-in shower.
The hotel was pretty quiet overnight, though I booked through reserved athlete housing for a local race so my floor may have been other runners who also turned in early for bed.
Overall, I loved this hotel and will stay here again if my travels bring me back to the Chicago West Side. It was reasonably priced, and with all of the amenities it was a great value for what I needed.
Room was spacious and clean, the breakfast and coffee were much better than most hotel breakfasts I’ve experienced, and the location is as close as you can get to united center for events (just a few minute walk, very safe). Overall I’d recommend to anyone who is going to united center!
The rooms are nice, and the bed was made with fresh linens when we got here. The bathroom is surprisingly spacious, with a walk in shower.
The floors are vinyl plank, and tile in the bathroom. There is a mini fridge (no freezer space), though no microwave.
The breakfast is 7-10 am on the weekends, and the kitchen staff (Eliseo Lara, and Cesar Ramirez) do an excellent job of keeping the food stocked and serving area and tables cleaned, even with the high amount of people who pass through.
The parking is in the back, but to access the doors you need a room key or to be buzzed in, so if you are planning on parking in the lot, it's best to call the desk before exiting the car to let them know to let you in for check-in.
Checking in was an absolute nightmare. Took what seemed almost 45 minutes to find our reservation. Manager on duty was rude and didn't seem to be managing very well. There was a group of people on the second floor drinking cussing and playing loud music. The breakfast was decent. Parking is $35 beware. Won't stay here again.
Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown by IHG
| Address | 506 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 957-9100 |
The good: Location was near a train stop, plenty of eating venues within a short walk or train ride, quiet hotel, comfortable beds. Fitness center was good with sufficient equipment. Customer service was very good, no concerns there.
Could be better: the area around the hotel is not the ideal place to be - especially at night; the room was your typical "compact" downtown Chicago room, elevators need an upgrade (in bad condition).
I would stay here again as none of my issues were showstoppers.
💖Our family stayed at Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown for two nights, and we had a wonderful experience.
The location was excellent. We were able to explore Chicago easily using the Blue Line and Bus 124, making it very convenient to visit many of the city’s attractions without a car.
The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. We also appreciated the convenience area on the first floor, where snacks, drinks, a microwave, basic medications, laundry supplies, and other useful items were available for purchase. It was clear that the hotel had thoughtfully considered the needs of its guests.
Overall, this hotel made our stay in Chicago much more enjoyable and comfortable. We would gladly stay here again on a future visit. Thank you for a great experience! 😊🏨👍
We stayed here just one night. The location was so convenient for us. We departed from the Amtrak station early in the morning and it was an only five minute walk. The rooms were very clean, though they are dated and show some signs of wear. The lady at the front desk was very pleasant when we checked in. Overall I would stay here again.
We spent two nights here on a weekend and absolutely will return again! This is an affordable, clean, and extremely comfortable hotel in a safe spot with amazing breakfast and lunch places on the same block (shoutouts to Ahuevo! and Himalayan!). We were just there to see the city and the location couldn't have been better for us. Easy to get to, easy and cheap to park in the adjacent lot. Cons are minimal: the rooms are not as spacious as others, and the bathroom in my room was small. Pros are huge: location, location, location! Willis tower literally towers over the hotel making this the perfect staging point for a weekender in Chicago! Super friendly staff, lovely clean room, perfect location, truly a wonderful stay. Thank you so much!
Hotel itself is okay. Rooms are nice, clean, and affordable. There is very little parking actually provided by the hotel, instead the primary parking is run by SpotHero and costs $25/night. Not a terrible price but I would have appreciated either advance notice or another option either free or rolled into the cost of my room. I've only interacted with one staff member but she was very obviously rushing me through the check-in process so she could go back to talking to her friend, something I find rude and off-putting when you are, for all intents and purposes, the face of the company from my point of view.
Best Western River North Hotel
| Address | 125 W Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60654 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 467-0800 |
Hotel is definitely not exactly as it seems online. The view from the room was a street light shining into our room, rooms were fairly clean. The office offers free coffee, but the only breakfast was juice from 6-9 am or something. Pool was a bit dingy, but big. The roof patio was great, lovely view and seating, the photos make it look much bigger and more on a roof than a patio that it is. Parking is 50$ a night, and if you get a regular room not a premium you have to use an outdoor elevator to get to your room. Then go outside to get to and from the lobby which has the pool and roof access. It is surrounded by a lot of places to walk to, the restaurant attached really isn’t that worth it. But it’s quick and easy so it’s not horrible.
I read so many bad reviews of this place we almost cancelled our reservation but we stayed here and honestly I have to assume most of the 1 star reviews are either lies from a competitor or idiots getting it mixed up with a different hotel. Some of the biggest complaints I read were the rooms not matching the pictures and the place being horribly run down and smelling of mold and pee. None of those things are true. Another complaint was having to go there the garage to get to the fifth floor, that is also not true. This place was actually really nice for the price. Not only do they have room service, which really surprised me, but their menu was huge. Most hotels these days with room service have very limited menus.
We requested an early check in which they granted us but then they didn’t have anything available until 3ish but they made up for it by offering us free breakfast which was also really good. Usually when we come to Chicago we stay at much nicer hotels because we have so many points with Marriott and Choice but we’ll definitely stay a night or two on future trips given the price.
Fantastic location, good & clean room and bathrooms, helpful & friendly staff. The pool/gym/terrace area is clean and fun. Overall a great choice for your stay in Chicago in a great central area.
My only knock is the noise. Maybe it is because we had a corner room, but the noises from outside were very loud - we could hear all the music, conversation, honks, and sirens all throughout the night. It’s a safe area so it didn’t bother us too much but worth considering if you are sensitive to noise.
Agter a pretty shitty entry to chicago the team at best Western helped restore my faith in the city.
Both on check in and with luggage storage the staff were excellent and extremely helpful.
The rooms were clean today and
Comfortable.
Grat job.
Very descent hotel. Very nice service at the front desk and the lobby (concierge related service man - very nice person). Free coffee and juices at the lobby. Clean, quiet, and spacious room.
Need to improve: 1. AC is very noisy (old model). 2. Breakfast service not the best in town, although rapid and fair cost. 3. It was highly expensive, likely due to very high demand for the period (9 days - end May to early June)
Grand House 424
| Address | 840 W Grand Ave Upper Floor, Chicago, IL 60642 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (773) 648-7840 |
This was an extremely disappointing experience, particularly due to the poor parking situation and lack of assistance from the staff.
We arrived around 11:40 PM and were instructed to park behind a white car because the vehicle next to us was supposedly going to be moved. However, the owner was not asked to move the vehicle until approximately 12:10 AM. Because the car was parked so closely to us, we were unable to get out of our vehicle during this time. We had also paid for a parking pass, which made the situation even more frustrating.
After waiting for 10 minutes, another vehicle arrived, and the staff allowed that guest to park immediately while we were still waiting to be accommodated. I had to ask staff three separate times when we would finally be able to enter and get some rest.
I also asked whether any accommodations could be made given that we had been stuck in our vehicle for over 30 minutes, but unfortunately, nothing was done to address the inconvenience.
Overall, the parking situation was extremely poorly managed, and the staff did not seem to take our concerns seriously. I would strongly recommend reconsidering staying here if reliable parking and responsive customer service is important to you.
Additionally, based on our experience, do not expect much flexibility regarding refunds or partial compensation if an issue occurs during your stay. The property was unwilling to offer any meaningful accommodation despite the circumstances.
This is a great apartment. I love it here, as a tourists anytime I visit Chicago I am going to make sure I will stay no other place other than Grand house 424. It's a nice place to be. It's like a home away from home customer service top notch. I love here and I'll continue to love it. I will always want to stay here anytime. I am in Chicago. I recommend this place for anybody that wants to stay in a home away from his home. Nice place once again
The only thing good was the location. Everything else was bad.
First day, had to shower in cold water. Had nowhere to place toiletries. So placed them on top of the toilet seat lid. Then had bunch of paint residue on them. Management later tells me that bathroom is under construction. Btw the toilet was also not flushed by the previous user… yuck
Day three, had to shower in cold water again.
When I asked whether I could have the storage fee waived due to my bad experience, management was brazen enough to say that they told me about the bathroom situation. I had to correct them that they only told me after the fact, not before arriving. Then they asked that I write a review. I opted to just store my luggage at a luxury hotel for much cheaper in a much more secure place. Bad attitude from customer service / management.
The room was clean and well-maintained, making the stay very comfortable. The service was perfect—staff were friendly and always helpful. The location is excellent, conveniently close to both bus and train stops, making it easy to reach the airport and the city center.
At first I was moved to their other establishment more than 2 miles away due to renovation. After expressing my disagreement, they quickly worked on it and put me back to the original location. I appreciate their responsiveness.
I spoke with Christal and she is also really nice to let me store my luggage for free before checking in. Appreciate it. Thank you!
Courtyard by Marriott Chicago at Medical District/UIC
| Address | 625 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60607 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (312) 491-1234 |
I had a wonderful stay at Courtyard by Marriott Chicago at Medical District/UIC. The hotel was clean, comfortable, and conveniently located near the Medical District and many Chicago attractions. The rooms were well maintained, and the overall atmosphere was welcoming and relaxing. The property offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an on-site Bistro, making it a great choice for both business and leisure travelers.
A special thank you to Aracelis at the front desk. She provided exceptional customer service from the moment I arrived. Aracelis was friendly, professional, and genuinely helpful, making sure all of my questions were answered and that I felt welcomed throughout my stay. Her positive attitude and attention to detail truly made a difference in my experience.
I highly recommend this hotel and greatly appreciate the outstanding hospitality provided by Aracelis. I will definitely stay here again when visiting Chicago! 😊
I stayed here for a concert and overall the hotel was okay, but there were a couple issues that would make me consider other options next time I come to the city.
The room was clean and comfortable, but both the room and the lobby were uncomfortably warm. It seemed like the AC couldn't keep up, which made it difficult to cool down after being outside in the heat. We also used the valet service, which was $50 per day (other hotels in the area will charge $10-20/day for parking).
The biggest issue was the toilet in our room. It barely flushed and usually took 5 or more flushes to work properly, and it took a very long time for the tank to refill between flushes.
The hotel wasn't terrible, but for the price and the issues we experienced, I would probably choose another hotel in the area for future stays.
Had a wonderful stay at this hotel. Very convient location and the staff was friendly and helpful. The hotel offers a free shuttle that runs every 30 mins that will take you anywhere within a 1 mile radius, which was nice as I was in town for a concert at the United Center. There's also a bus stop just across the street that'll get you to the green line in a few minutes.
I checked in with a large group and a bus. We gave the hotel a heads up we’d be coming early, but of course they couldn’t guarantee early check in. I called 20 mins before arrival to ensure parking.
I checked in at the desk with no expectations, and lo and behold, lovely Brenda at the front desk had a handful of keys ready for us to check in.
It was a Christmas miracle, and Brenda deserves a raise. Not only accommodating and helpful, but very sweet and kind. We like Brenda. Five stars for her
Amazing….Home visiting for the holidays. Got in really late but they were still able to accommodate me. The staff here are very nice and make sure you have everything you need. Valet parking for $40.00 a night or you can park across the street and walk over. Nice gym, the hotel itself is very nice and clean. They also offer a very nice breakfast selection. Great view of downtown Chicago. I’ll probably always stay here when I comeback to visit.
Essential Tips for Attending a Concert at the United Center
Staying at the right hotel is only half the battle; knowing how to navigate the venue and its surroundings will elevate your entire trip. The United Center is a massive complex, and a little local knowledge goes a long way. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned concertgoer, these insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a seamless night out in Chicago.
Plan Your Pre-Show Meal in the West Loop
While there are food options inside the arena, the real culinary magic happens just east of the stadium. The West Loop, particularly along Randolph Street, is a foodie paradise. Restaurants here fill up fast on event nights, so make a reservation well in advance or plan to arrive early for a walk-in spot. Eating before you head to the gates is almost always cheaper and tastier than standard arena fare.
Understand the Rideshare Pickup Zone
If you are staying too far to walk, do not expect to hail a ride directly at the front doors. The United Center has a designated rideshare pickup and drop-off zone. After the show, the demand is astronomical, leading to surge pricing and long waits. To avoid this, either leave the venue during the encore or walk a few blocks east toward Ashland Avenue before requesting your ride.
Walk with the Crowd for Safety
The immediate area around the United Center is safe on event nights, primarily because of the sheer volume of people and police presence. When walking back to your hotel, stick to the main, well-lit thoroughfares like Madison Street or Warren Boulevard. Do not wander into isolated side streets or parking lots, and always travel with the flow of the departing crowd.
Check the Bag Policy Before You Go
The United Center enforces a strict bag policy that catches many visitors off guard. Generally, only small clutch purses or clear bags are permitted. Backpacks and large purses are not allowed, and there are limited on-site locker facilities. Check the venue’s official website the day before your event to ensure your bag meets the size requirements, saving you a long walk back to your hotel.
Consider the CTA Bus for Budget Travel
While the Blue Line train is a bit far for walking, the CTA bus system serves the venue directly. The #20 Madison bus runs 24 hours and drops you practically at the front door, connecting you to the heart of downtown. If you are staying in the Loop, this is a fast, safe, and incredibly cheap way to avoid traffic and parking fees.
Choosing the right basecamp transforms a standard concert trip into a stress-free mini-vacation. By staying within a short walk of the arena, you give yourself the freedom to enjoy the night at your own pace. Whether you are splurging on a suite or saving money for merchandise, the convenience of a nearby hotel is invaluable.
Ultimately, the goal is to immerse yourself in the music and the moment. With your accommodation sorted and a solid plan for navigating the area, all that is left to do is enjoy the show. Chicago’s vibrant energy awaits, and your perfect room is just around the corner.
