Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago River North

The front desk were fabulous: approachable, friendly, and helpful. The maid service, food staff, and everyone else we interacted with were just as nice. Our room was exceptionally clean and well maintained. The location worked well for our visit to the TLScontact service to apply for a French long term stay Visa, within six blocks, or a 10-minute walk and four-minute drive. Eataly store and dining was also six blocks away. Union Station train depot was a 17-minute Uber/Lyft ride, about $16 before tip. Breakfast was adequate, with fresh fruit, sausage, real cooked eggs as well as hard-boiled eggs, cereal, bread, bagels, muffins, made-to-order waffles, juice, and plenty of coffee and hot water for tea. I’d happily stay again and strongly recommend it, especially if you need to be near TLScontact.

We booked a romantic city getaway, and as a Silver member I was disappointed by the cold, transactional check-in. The front desk seemed like they didn’t want to be there, and there wasn’t even a thank-you for being a Silver member or any other pleasantries. The location in the heart of River North was great. There’s lots to do within walking distance, the area felt safe even late at night, and it was lively. We found SpotHero parking two blocks away for much less, and didn’t need an Uber or Lyft unless we went farther out. The included breakfast is appreciated, but you’re not missing much if you skip it. There was no bacon, potatoes, sausage, or scrambled eggs. The choices were hard muffins with egg, cheese, and ham that had no taste, plus water, juice, coffee, and fruit. Go elsewhere if you want a real breakfast. Our room was clean, but the bathroom fan didn’t work and it smelled humid. The pillows were all soft, so we had to ask for firm ones. Housekeeping were super friendly and accommodating. The outside doors on Huron St lock after a certain time, and you’re supposed to use your card to get in. Ours didn’t work. We had to wait for someone to let us in, and an employee even told us, “Yeah! sometimes they don't work.” If the locks are broken, fix them. It’s a safety issue.

The room was great, and the lobby was very nice for a H2S. Parking is paid and a block away. The front desk staff were cordial, though not as warm and welcoming as at most Hiltons. The morning breakfast attendant was very helpful.

We had a very good experience. Home2 Suites feels like a great value as a chain, with a lot for the price. The room was clean and well appointed, the staff we met were kind and helpful, and they gave us directions to train stations and recommendations. It’s close enough to anywhere you’d want to go. Rooms at locations in smaller markets I’ve visited have been much bigger, but for a more compact room in a major city, there was still plenty of space to stretch out. I’ve tried boutique hotels in Chicago for a change of pace, and I wouldn’t discourage that, but for a spontaneous trip, a reliable name can be a good choice.