The Chinatown Hotel Chicago is praised for its strategic location in the heart of Chicago's culturally rich Chinatown district, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking convenience and local immersion. This advantageous spot offers easy access to an array of restaurants, shops and services and maintains a safe and peaceful atmosphere. The proximity to major public transportation hubs, including the Red and Green subway lines and various bus routes, facilitates quick travel to central Chicago attractions and key destinations like the McCormick Place conference center, Union Station and the airport.
Despite the limited amenities, the hotel's positioning makes it a favorable base for convenient exploration of the city, particularly appealing to those attending conventions or simply eager to delve into the vibrant local culture at an affordable price point.
The rooms, while centrally located and featuring some cozy aspects such as comfortable beds and good showers, are generally small and outdated with a significant need for renovations and updates. Cleanliness is a notable concern with multiple reports of dirty carpets, stained furniture and general hygiene issues. However, some guests did find their accommodations and bathrooms clean and the beddings satisfactory.
The staff at Chinatown Hotel Chicago receives high marks for their friendliness and professionalism. Many guests complimented the front desk team for their helpful, polite and responsive service, contributing positively to the overall experience.
Regarding the WiFi connectivity, there are mixed reviews. While some guests found the service adequate, many encountered issues such as weak, slow and unreliable connections, sometimes non-existent in their rooms, indicating a necessity for improvement.
The beds themselves garnered mixed feedback; some visitors found them very comfortable, enhancing their overall stay, whereas others pointed out issues related to cleanliness and the condition of the mattresses. Despite these drawbacks, those prioritizing affordability and location over luxury might find the hotel suitable for their needs.
In summary, while the Chinatown Hotel Chicago's prime location and friendly staff are significant positives, it falls short in areas like room cleanliness, modern amenities and reliable WiFi, making it a better fit for budget-conscious travelers who value convenience over comprehensive comfort.
Opened in 1910, The Blackstone is celebrated as the 'Hotel of Presidents,' having hosted every U.S. president from Theodore Roosevelt to Richard Nixon. It is historically significant as the origin of the term 'smoke-filled room' in political parlance. Designed in Beaux-Arts/Second Empire style, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a Chicago landmark.
Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' category
The Blackstone, Autograph Collection stands as a testament to Chicago's rich past, effortlessly blending its storied history with contemporary allure. Guests are consistently captivated by the 1920s ambiance, where original decorations and fascinating stories in the lobby evoke a sense of stepping back in time. The hotel’s old charm is palpable, with its beautifully restored vintage lobby and lush furnishings that complement the overall decor.
The building, constructed around 1910, holds a significant place in Chicago's architectural heritage, which guests can sense throughout their stay. The harmonious blend of history and comfort resonates throughout the property, from the stately historic lobby to the modern, well-appointed rooms. This sense of an historical journey is consistent with the hotel's meticulous attention to maintaining its elegant past while providing contemporary comfort.
The Blackstone is more than just a hotel; it is a beautiful and palatial piece of history, tucked within a resurgent neighborhood. As an overlooked historic gem, it offers an enriching experience, allowing guests to appreciate the cool stories of its enduring past. It's a historic treasure that artfully captures the essence of the bygone era while remaining accessible and inviting to modern travelers.
Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' category
Nestled in the heart of Printers District, 'Bluegreen Vacations Hotel Blake, an Ascend Collection Hotel' stands as a beacon of local history and charm. This historic building, deemed a landmark, captivates visitors with its intricate old-world design and fascinating past. The decor, deeply rooted in the hotel's former life as a printing company, features custom wallpaper and modern yet historically interesting elements that tell the story of the neighborhood. Guests appreciate the quieter city street and the central location, which offers easy access to the area's rich printing heritage. Rooms echo the building's origins, blending old-fashioned charm with contemporary updates. Overall, this authentic hotel offers a unique glimpse into the past while providing a pleasant and historically significant stay.
Opened in 1893 as the Auditorium Annex, this hotel was built to accommodate visitors to the World's Columbian Exposition, with its architecture designed to harmonize with Louis Sullivan's Auditorium Building. It notably featured the first air-conditioned hotel ballroom in America, the Gold Room.
Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' category
In the heart of bustling Chicago, the Congress Plaza Hotel stands as a testament to a bygone era, blending historic elegance with the charm of yesteryear. Opened in 1893, this grand old building on Michigan Avenue is steeped in history and adorned with ornate decor that will transport you back in time. Guests have consistently noted the hotel's rich historical significance, a factor that is palpable from the Art Deco charm and classic architecture to the traditional atmosphere that imbues the lobby, hallways and rooms.
The Congress Plaza has preserved its beautiful old-world feel with elements like the stunning historic staircase and the Gold Banquet Room, adding impressive touches to its storied past. The lobby is particularly noteworthy for its elegant and grand appearance, evoking a sense of grandeur that adds to the overall ambiance of the hotel. While some reviews mention that the building is aging and could use a bit of tender loving care, the hotel's historical significance and the nostalgia it invokes more than make up for any signs of wear and tear.
Many guests appreciate the old-fashioned charm and traditional style, describing it as a classic hotel reminiscent of historical landmarks. The architecture, fixtures and interior design exude a historic feel, making the experience of staying here akin to stepping into a different era. The storied history of the hotel is fascinating to many, making their stay at the Congress Plaza a memorable one.
It’s a hotel that not only offers beautiful views over Lake Michigan and proximity to Grant Park but also houses a narrative of Chicago's past within its walls. Whether it’s the historically significant lobby or the venerable bathrooms that seem to have aged gracefully, every corner of this hotel tells a tale. For history enthusiasts and those who cherish vintage elegance, the Congress Plaza Hotel offers a unique and enchanting stay, full of character and historical charm.
*Additional taxes or fees may apply. Please check the final price before completing your booking.Showing 1-5 out of 5 hotels in and around Chicago Heights