Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago-Downtown

The hotel could use better pillows and newer furniture, but we had a perfect stay. My husband usually doesn’t care about hotels, yet he told his friend this one was nice, which says a lot for him. I highly recommend it. I booked the Corner Suite with city views for my birthday after comparing rates, room views and locations at nearby hotels. It felt warm and comfortable, and the room was clean and neat when we arrived. The receptionist was a kind, happy woman, and even the views from the front desk were great. There’s a warm pool on the 19th floor with a nice daytime view. Parking was easy to find across the street, although expensive. The hotel is near most things, and the riverwalk is very close.

The heater was a little loud at night, and the elevators get so much use that waits of 3-5 minutes are common. Still, I recommend the place for the price and would come back. My suite had a kitchen and fridge, the staff were great, and the free continental breakfast was a nice extra. The pool is 4.5 feet deep, and there’s a small gym on the top floor. On the first floor, you either use valet or take the elevator to the 6th floor lobby to check in. Valet is optional at $72 per night, charged to a card for incidentals or paid in cash. The higher you go, the better the views.

Even though we were beside a room with a dog that barked whenever someone passed, we never heard it from inside our room. The rooms are extremely quiet. Our room was nice but a little dated. The staff were very kind and helpful, and the breakfast team did a great job with the food and service. Everyone greeted me politely and asked how I was doing.

The location is hard to beat, a block from Michigan Ave. Jewel Osco and CVS are also a block away, Potbelly is two doors down, Bally's temporary casino is a block and a few steps away, and a mall with Nordstrom's is across the street. In summer, we usually walk to Navy Pier. We’ve stayed here many, many times over the years. It’s consistently clean, the staff are friendly and check-in is quick. Breakfast is decent, especially the complimentary eggs. Rooms include a full-size refrigerator, two small induction burners, dishwasher, plates, silverware and drinkware. If you want a nice place in a convenient spot, look no further.