Hotels in River North

River North is the name of the area north of the Chicago River, west of Michigan Avenue. For tourists, it offers easy access to public transit which it turn will get you to the city’s most popular attractions, but it can be less expensive than the Magnificent Mile hotels. Staying in this area will require more willingness to take a bus or the el, but you’ll save money and there are more dining and drinking options than in the Loop, which typically empties out at night and on weekends.

Here are some of the recommended hotels in River North:

Hotel Felix

Located at Huron and Clark, the Hotel Felix is a stone’s throw from both the red and brown lines of the el. It’s also one of the most eco-friendly hotels in the city, having earned the city’s first Silver LEED certification. There’s a lobby bar and a 24-hour fitness center, and the hotel takes dogs and cats of any size.

Westin Chicago River North

Just north of the River, the Westin boasts over 400 hotel rooms, a WestinWORKOUT fitness studio, 320 RiverBar on the lobby level overlooking the riverwalk, and all the service and luxurious touches you would expect from a Westin.

Kinzie Hotel

The Kinzie Hotel, called the Amalfi until 2014, is located just off State Street north of the Chicago River, and is known for exceptional service, free continental breakfast, and a free evening reception with beer, wine and snacks in the Double Cross Lounge. Rooms offer free wi-fi.

Holiday Inn Chicago Downtown - The Mart

The Holiday Inn Chicago Downtown - The Mart, formerly the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza, is located at the far west end of River North, near Orleans and Kinzie, overlooking the river at Wolf Point. Rooms offer free wifi, and there is an indoor pool, fitness center and bar and restaurant.

Best Western River North Hotel

For travelers on a budget, the Best Western is an excellent choice. Located at Ohio and La Salle, it’s close to the Grand Red Line stop and offers comfortable rooms with free wireless and cable tv. Parking is on site for a fee, and there is an indoor pool, a rooftop deck and a fitness center.