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Hotels with Pet Friendly Near Chicago River
The Chicago River isn’t just a waterway—it’s the city’s living canvas. From sunrise reflections on skyscrapers to golden evening glows, its ever-changing beauty unfolds with time. Whether walking, boating, or snapping photos, you’ll find yourself mesmerized by its timeless rhythm.
L7 Chicago
This hotel is a perfect choice in the heart of Chicago! Just a short walk to the Chicago Riverwalk and Chicago Theatre, with Millennium Park and Art Institute of Chicago nearby. Enjoy top-notch amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, free WiFi, and concierge services, plus wedding services and a cozy lobby fireplace. Dine at Perilla Steak for delicious Korean cuisine or unwind at the bar/lounge. Rooms feature Italian Frette linens and luxury toiletries for ultimate comfort!
Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk
Want to experience the heart of Chicago? This hotel is in the perfect location, just a 6-minute walk to Michigan Avenue for shopping and sightseeing! Enjoy the indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center to relax or stay active. The rooms are spacious and cozy, featuring flat-screen TVs and down comforters for a restful stay. Business travelers will appreciate the well-equipped meeting spaces and business center. With three restaurants and two bars/lounges, dining options are plentiful. Plus, it’s family-friendly and pet-friendly—making it a great choice for everyone!
Virgin Hotels Chicago
The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago
Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
Kimpton Gray Hotel
Hotel 55 Chicago Downtown
The Hoxton, Chicago
Club Quarters Hotel, Wacker at Michigan
The Wheeler Mansion
Claridge House
Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop
River Hotel
Hotel Lincoln
Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago
Aloft Chicago Mag Mile
Inn at Lincoln Park
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Chicago River
The Peninsula Chicago is a top choice, located just steps from the Chicago River with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city skyline and illuminated riverbanks. The hotel provides complimentary access to riverboat tours, allowing guests to experience iconic landmarks like Millennium Park and the Cloud Gate sculpture from the water, blending luxury with immersive urban scenery.
The Chicago River at Grant Park is just a 500-meter walk (7 minutes) from Michigan Avenue. Stroll along the scenic Michigan Avenue Promenade, passing cultural icons like Millennium Park, Cloud Gate, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Multiple CTA bus routes and the Blue Line elevated train stop directly near the river, operating 24/7 for seamless access to downtown shopping and entertainment hubs.
Try Chicago Riverwalk Boat Tours, a 1-hour scenic cruise highlighting architectural gems like Chicago Spire, Renaissance Center, and Union Station. Professional guides narrate the city’s history while passengers enjoy views of the riverfront skyline. Optional stops allow dining at Riverwalk restaurants. Nighttime lighting cruises illuminate the buildings in vibrant hues, perfect for photography and romantic evening experiences.
The Peninsula Chicago is a top choice, located at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River, offering floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows with stunning views of the river cruise boats and skyline. The hotel also provides complimentary walking tours along the Riverwalk, showcasing the city’s blend of history and modernity.
Another excellent option is Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago, known for its artistic ambiance and walkable access to the riverfront in just 5 minutes. It frequently hosts summer concerts and local markets along the Riverwalk, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic Chicago experiences.
The Chicago River offers excellent connectivity: Chicago Riverboat Cruises depart hourly, providing direct access to key destinations like Millennium Park, Willis Tower, and Michigan Avenue shopping district. Alternatively, the Blue Line L train stops at Chicago River Station, reaching Union Station in just 3 minutes for easy transfers across the city.
On foot, the Riverwalk Trail spans 1.5 km and links multiple cultural landmarks, featuring cafes and public art installations. For a scenic and efficient journey, consider using the Divvy bike-sharing system—riding along the river allows quick, enjoyable access between major attractions while enjoying the urban landscape.
Every evening at 8 PM, the Chicago River bridges light up with vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing display mirrored on the water—perfect for photography and leisurely strolls. The Riverwalk hosts nighttime live music performances and outdoor bar events, with venues like Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! and Bavette's Bar & Boilery offering riverside seating for drinks and dining.
For a deeper experience, book a nighttime river cruise with expert guides who narrate architectural highlights and historical stories as you glide past Gothic buildings, skyscrapers, and old wharves. Some cruises feature live jazz music, adding a sophisticated touch to the serene, illuminated journey down the city’s iconic waterway.
Yes, many riverfront hotels provide family-friendly facilities. Hyatt Regency Chicago features a kids’ play zone by the river and family suites, plus regular interactive workshops such as "Exploring Chicago River Ecology" and "Paper Boat Building Contest".
The Langham, Chicago offers a Kids Club with supervised childcare, allowing parents to enjoy riverfront yoga or dining events. All these hotels are within walking distance of the Children's Museum of Chicago and Millennium Park’s interactive fountains, perfect for full-day family outings. Many also provide complimentary kids’ breakfasts and baby crib rentals, enhancing comfort for traveling families.
The Chicago Riverfront boasts a vibrant culinary scene centered on local ingredients and innovative cuisine. Bavette's Bar & Boilery is renowned for its Chicago-style steaks and seafood boils, with outdoor terraces facing the river—especially magical at night under glowing lights.
Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! specializes in Mexican-Chicago fusion dishes, including signature items like smoked beef tacos and riverfront cocktails. The Riverwalk Market features diverse street food stalls serving artisanal ice cream, grilled corn, and cheeseburgers—ideal for casual bites on the go.
Many restaurants also offer riverside patios, making them perfect for dinner or afternoon tea with scenic views of passing boats and city skylines.
The Chicago River offers diverse water activities. The most popular is the Chicago River Sightseeing Cruise, a 45-minute tour passing beneath five drawbridges, offering panoramic views of Gothic architecture and skyscrapers with multilingual audio commentary.
For adventure seekers, paddleboarding and kayaking tours are available through certified providers, suitable for beginners and enthusiasts alike. These allow close encounters with wildlife and riverside greenery. During summer, lights and jazz cruises combine live jazz music with illuminated river scenes, creating a romantic evening experience.
Some tours include photo services and commemorative souvenirs, adding lasting memories to your journey down this iconic urban waterway.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Chicago River
L7 Chicago
Staying at L7 Chicago was an absolute highlight of our trip. The hotel offers top-tier comfort with sleek, modern rooms and a prime location that makes exploring downtown Chicago effortless. Every detail feels thoughtfully designed—from the plush bedding to the high-end amenities. The only minor disappointment was the absence of the lobby’s signature hot chocolate during our stay, which we were really looking forward to. But honestly, that’s just a tiny blemish on an otherwise perfect experience. The staff were friendly, the views from the room were stunning, and the overall atmosphere exudes sophistication. If you're visiting Chicago, this is definitely a top choice—highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers.
Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk
Out of three hotels I've stayed in Chicago, this one was by far the best. I was actually planning to cancel my booking due to a mix-up, but since it couldn’t be cancelled and alternative options were too expensive, I decided to just stick with it. To my surprise, they allowed me to check in over two hours early, and the room they assigned had an incredible view—directly overlooking the Chicago River and the Trump Tower. The location is perfect: just a short walk from the riverwalk, making it super easy to hop on a sightseeing boat tour or enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the water. Everything about the stay exceeded expectations—from the view to the convenience. A truly standout experience, and definitely worth recommending.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
Staying at Virgin Hotels Chicago was an absolutely fantastic experience overall. The location is unbeatable—just a short 15-minute commute by train to downtown, with plenty of great restaurants and shops nearby. The room itself was sleek, modern, and incredibly comfortable—the bed was just the right firmness for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were friendly and attentive without being pushy, which made the whole stay feel welcoming. The bathroom was well-designed with excellent fixtures and smart dry/wet separation. Breakfast was a highlight—wide variety of Western options plus some local touches that added a nice personal flair. For the quality and value, it's hard to beat. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers on every front. I’d definitely come back if I visit Chicago again.
The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago
Staying at The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago was an absolute highlight of my trip to Chicago. Located right on Michigan Avenue, just steps away from the 360 Observatory and a short walk to Lake Michigan, the location is unbeatable for sightseeing and exploring. I arrived early and appreciated the complimentary baggage storage—no stress waiting around with heavy luggage. The hotel’s modern, elegant design and friendly staff made the whole experience seamless. From the prime location to the thoughtful amenities, this property delivers exceptional value and comfort. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit Chicago.
Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
This hotel is absolutely fantastic from start to finish. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from major attractions and downtown Chicago’s best spots. My room was spacious, immaculately clean, and beautifully designed with modern touches that made it feel both luxurious and welcoming. The staff went above and beyond to ensure a seamless experience, and the overall atmosphere exudes timeless elegance with a contemporary twist. I’d 100% stay here again on my next trip to Chicago—truly one of the standout stays I’ve had in years.
Kimpton Gray Hotel
The ground-floor restaurant makes dining effortless—no need to leave the hotel even if you don’t want to eat in-house. The room was spacious and incredibly comfortable, making the stay truly enjoyable. With easy access to downtown via public transit, it’s a perfect choice for travelers who value convenience and quality. I’d definitely book again.
Hotel 55 Chicago Downtown
Staying at Hotel 55 Chicago Downtown was an absolute delight. The room was surprisingly spacious—definitely more than I expected for the price. We booked a double king bed setup, and each of us had our own generous-sized bed, which made for a very comfortable and peaceful night’s sleep. The bedding felt luxurious, and the whole space had that clean, fresh vibe you can only get when a hotel truly cares about detail. The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful—check-in was quick and welcoming. What really stood out was the location: just steps from the subway, making it super easy to explore downtown Chicago and nearby attractions. It's rare to find such a great balance between comfort, cleanliness, and value. I’d definitely book here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
The Hoxton, Chicago
Staying at The Hoxton, Chicago was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great cafes, boutiques, and local vibes. The room was stylish, clean, and thoughtfully designed with a modern touch, and the bed was incredibly comfortable. I loved how quiet it was—even with the city buzzing outside, the soundproofing kept everything peaceful. The staff were warm and helpful, offering personalized tips on nearby spots to explore. Even a complimentary coffee upon check-in made the experience feel special. It’s rare to find such a well-balanced blend of style, comfort, and hospitality. I’d definitely book here again and highly recommend it for both business and leisure travelers.
Club Quarters Hotel, Wacker at Michigan
The location is perfect—just steps away from downtown Chicago and super convenient for getting around via the train. The rooms overlook Wacker Drive, offering a great view of the city skyline. Staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, going the extra mile to ensure a comfortable stay. From check-in to check-out, everything was seamless. This hotel is an absolute gem for anyone visiting Chicago—it’s definitely my top pick and I’d stay here again without hesitation.
The Wheeler Mansion
We couldn’t have asked for a better weekend getaway with my girlfriends at The Wheeler Mansion. From the moment we arrived, the elegance and charm of this boutique hotel set the tone for an unforgettable stay. Each room was uniquely decorated with distinctive artwork and vintage touches—no two spaces felt the same. The grand foyer and beautifully furnished living and dining areas made us feel like we’d stepped into a storybook. David, our concierge, went above and beyond—he was attentive, friendly, and even drove us to the theater for our show, Hairspray. He also recommended dinner at Pilsen Yards, which turned out to be one of the best meals of the trip: delicious food and top-notch service. We left feeling completely refreshed and inspired. I can’t wait to return, especially in summer when the grounds are in full bloom—just looking at the photos, it’s clear this place is even more magical in warmer weather.
Claridge House
Staying at Claridge House was a delightful experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the Chicago History Museum and only a few blocks from the scenic shoreline of Lake Michigan. There are plenty of excellent restaurants within walking distance, and getting around town via Uber is super convenient. The building itself has a classic charm with elegant details that give it character without feeling outdated. The front desk staff were exceptionally professional and friendly, making check-in and check-out seamless. I booked a room with two queen beds—spacious, clean, and well-maintained, especially the large bathroom which felt like a private retreat. Valet parking is available next door, though it’s on the pricier side, but honestly, given the central location, it feels justified. Overall, I had a wonderful stay and would definitely recommend this gem to anyone visiting Chicago.
Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop
Located right in the heart of downtown Chicago, this hotel offers an unbeatable position in the bustling central district. Despite being surrounded by city energy, the property itself is surprisingly quiet and peaceful—perfect for a relaxing stay. I noticed many local American guests staying here, with no tour groups in sight, giving it a more authentic, residential vibe. Walking to Lake Michigan is incredibly convenient—just a short stroll away. While our room didn’t include breakfast, there are plenty of great dining options nearby, making it easy to grab a meal without hassle. The location, comfort, and overall experience earned my full recommendation. I’d definitely book again if I’m back in Chicago.
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