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.
Located at Huron and LaSalle, 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 an onsite restaurant, Elate, plus a spa and fitness center.
Just north of the River, the Westin boasts over 400 hotel rooms, a gym, business center, fitness center and spa, a sushi bar, lounge and grill, and all the service and luxurious touches you would expect from a Westin.
The Amalfi is located just off State Street north of the Chicago River, and is known for exceptional service, free breakfast, and a free daily wine and hors d’oeuvres reception. There’s an onsite fitness center, spa and business center, and rooms offer iPod docking stations, free wi-fi and 24-hour room service.
The Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza is located at the far west end of River North, near Orleans and Kinzie. Rooms offer free wifi and 32-inch LCD flat screen tvs, and there is an indoor pool, fitness center and bar and restaurant.
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 free and there is an onsite pool and fitness center.
