Hotel Chicago Downtown, Autograph Collection

The Hotel Chicago Downtown, Autograph Collection is a 16-floor, modernly designed property in the trendy area of River North, with weekly live music events on-site. The lobby, bar, meeting room, and front desk were renovated in 2013, so interiors feel fresh. Stylish designs have a sophisticated touch that appeals to business travelers, as does the 10,000 square feet of event space. High-back modern chairs and cubed tables are arranged by lighted pillars across from the front desks, which are illuminated by crystal circular light designs on the ceiling. Sleek, modern chairs and stools offer more seating in the Chicagoan bar. In the corridors gold damask wallpaper and black-and-white architectural photos -- similar to those in rooms -- create a simple and elegant look. Mostly corporate guests stay here, but this modern and centrally located hotel also appeals to tourists who want to be in walking distance of the nightlife and attractions.

Located in a former industrial area that was once known as “Smokey Hollow," this River North location is across the street from the Chicago hot spot, the House of Blues, where guests can charge drinks and food to their rooms. Today the area has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of restaurant and bar options nearby. This convenient location is 10 minutes on foot to the Wrigley Building and a 10-minute stroll to the waterfront Chicago Riverwalk with kayaks and boat rentals in the warmer months. Within walking distance is Michigan Avenue, the Bean at Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago. The Metro red line is five blocks from the hotel and goes to Wrigley Field in 20 minutes. It’s a 30-minute drive to Chicago Midway International Airport.

Black and white interior designs (Think: tufted headboards, light gray drapes, pale damask wallpaper, and black and white poster-sized photography) have a sophisticated air. Built-in speakers play classical music that can be changed to suit a guest’s preference. Floor-to-ceiling windows have city and/or partial river views. However, some windows face other buildings.  Rooms and suites -- with queen, king, or two double beds -- fit between two to six people. With black and white tile floors, stylish bathrooms have hairdryers and shower/tub combos and/or showers; some suites have soaking tubs. Studio King Suites have divided sitting areas with sofa beds. King Suites have one bedroom. And Jake and Elwood Suites offer river views, multiple flat-screen TVs, two bathrooms, dining tables, and PC computers in office areas. Every room has AC, irons, bathrobes, coffeemakers, well-stocked mini-bars, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, and safes. Rollaway beds, for a fee, can be requested. 

This hotel is loaded with stylish designs, but the amenities here are limited. The sleek and trendy Chicagoan bar and restaurant is in the lobby, serving American fare for breakfast and dinner. For Marriott Rewards members, breakfast and evening snacks are offered in the concierge lounge, Club Maxwell, where there are flat-screen TVs, stocked mini-fridges, and coffee and tea. Overall, facilities are geared toward business travelers. Accessible via key card, the fitness center is open 24 hour a day and offers modern cardio and weight machines with mini-TVs, a water cooler, and fresh towels. Conferences are commonly held on-site since there are 13 meeting rooms, including the Gold Coast Ballroom that fits up to 350 people. The business center offers three computers, and printing, copying, and messenger services. In-room massages can be arranged through the front desk, but there isn’t a spa or pool in the hotel. Valet parking is provided for a fee; self-parking isn’t offered.