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Hotels with Non-smoking floor 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.
Viceroy Chicago
This hotel is the ultimate luxury choice in downtown Chicago! Just a few minutes' walk to State Street and Michigan Avenue, making shopping and sightseeing a breeze. The hotel offers seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, and even a kids' play area with babysitting services, perfect for families. Rooms are spacious and cozy, featuring Egyptian cotton linens and designer toiletries, plus a minibar and espresso machine—it’s like a home away from home! Business travelers will appreciate the meeting spaces and 24-hour front desk, making it ideal for both leisure and work trips.
Four Seasons Chicago
East Lincoln Park Gem: Spacious 4BR apartment with 2,5 Bathroom
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!
The Palmer House Hilton
Nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, this luxury hotel offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort, just minutes away from Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago. Unwind at the indoor pool, spa, or 24-hour fitness center, or take advantage of the business center and event spaces for your professional needs. Rooms feature minibars and plush bedding for a home-away-from-home experience. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel has it all. Don't miss out!
LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
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
Viceroy Chicago
Staying at Viceroy Chicago for two nights was an absolute delight. The room size is impressive for a city hotel—spacious and well-designed, offering a comfortable retreat after a busy day of exploring. Located just steps from Michigan Avenue, everything you’d want is within walking distance: shopping, dining, and the iconic Millennium Park are literally around the corner. The nearby museums are also easy to access, making it perfect for travelers who love culture and convenience. The staff went above and beyond with warm, genuine service—always helpful and attentive without being intrusive. From the moment I arrived to the time I checked out, every detail felt thoughtfully curated. This place strikes the perfect balance between luxury, location, and comfort. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Chicago.
Four Seasons Chicago
Staying at the Four Seasons Chicago was an absolutely wonderful experience. The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown attractions and public transit, making it incredibly convenient for exploring the city. The room was immaculate, spacious, and offered stunning views of the skyline. The staff went above and beyond with their attention to detail and genuine hospitality. One minor note: on the night we stayed, there was quite a strong wind outside, which caused some creaking sounds from the furniture and doors. While noticeable, it didn’t detract from the overall luxury or comfort. Everything else was top-notch—from the bedding to the thoughtful amenities. This is definitely a hotel that delivers on every level, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
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.
The Palmer House Hilton
The hotel lived up to expectations and its central location makes it easy to get around. I even tried a nearby ice cream shop—surprisingly delicious and worth a visit. The lobby is huge and impressive, with plenty of space and elegant design. What stood out was that during our stay, there was a major game between the Dodgers and Blue Jays, and the lobby was packed with fans celebrating the event. Despite the buzz, the staff remained professional and attentive throughout. The atmosphere was lively but never overwhelming. It’s clear this place knows how to balance luxury with energy. Definitely a great choice for both business and leisure travelers.
LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
Staying at LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown attractions and public transit makes exploring the city effortless. The rooftop views are stunning, especially at sunset when the skyline lights up. My room was beautifully designed with modern elegance, and the bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a restful night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond to make my stay memorable, offering warm hospitality and helpful recommendations. From the ambiance to the attention to detail, every aspect of this hotel felt thoughtfully curated. I’ll definitely be returning and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile
I can't recommend this Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile enough. The location is unbeatable—right across from Trader Joe's, so grocery shopping is a breeze. It's just a 7-8 minute walk to Trump Tower, and less than 20 minutes to Millennium Park. From there, it's only a few more minutes to the shores of Lake Michigan—perfect for a relaxing evening stroll. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We arrived at 10 AM, and even though check-in wasn't available yet, they gladly stored our luggage at no extra cost. When we returned around 2:30 PM, we were told to wait about 25 minutes. But instead of leaving us waiting in limbo, the staff actually came to check on us—and discovered a room was already ready! They apologized and made sure we were taken care of right away. While the amenities aren't flashy, the rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. For the price and convenience, this place offers outstanding value. I’ll definitely be back if I ever visit Chicago again.
The Westin Chicago River North
The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from the Chicago River and surrounded by great dining, shopping, and attractions. From the moment I checked in, the staff went above and beyond with their friendly and professional service. The room was clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with a perfect bed that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated the delicious breakfast options—fresh, varied, and well-prepared. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed to enhance the stay. This hotel truly delivers on every level, and I’d definitely return without hesitation.
Eurostars Magnificent Mile
This is our second time staying at Eurostars Magnificent Mile, and we’re already planning our next visit! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown Chicago, with endless shops, restaurants, tourist spots, supermarkets, and bars just steps away. We absolutely love the on-site sauna—it’s perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The room is spacious, clean, and well-appointed, making it feel like a home away from home. The staff go above and beyond with their friendly, genuine hospitality. This hotel feels like a hidden gem, and it’s now our go-to choice whenever we come to Chicago. Don’t miss the downstairs restaurant, River North Bistro—especially during happy hour! The food and drinks are fantastic, and the vibe is lively yet relaxed. Highly recommend this place for both business and leisure travelers.
Chinatown Hotel Chicago
Staying at Chinatown Hotel Chicago was an absolute delight! The room features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light—every morning felt like a fresh start. What stood out most was the excellent air circulation; even on warmer days, the room stayed refreshingly cool without relying heavily on the AC. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great local eateries, making it perfect for exploring the vibrant neighborhood. Clean, well-designed rooms with thoughtful touches make this hotel a hidden gem in Chicago. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a true local vibe, this place is a must-try.
Hotel Felix
Staying at Hotel Felix in Chicago's North Loop was a great experience. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the train station, making it super convenient to explore downtown and the Magnificent Mile. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, so dining options are never an issue. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The only downside was a plumbing issue on our last day, which meant we had to take a cold shower—minor inconvenience, but nothing major. Overall, the hotel offers excellent value, clean rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
The Buckingham Hotel
Staying at The Buckingham Hotel in Chicago was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond—warm, friendly, and incredibly helpful right from the moment we arrived. I booked a room with an amazing view, and it did not disappoint—the skyline stretched out before me, especially breathtaking at night when the city lights came on. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, from the cozy furnishings to the quiet, well-maintained hallways. What really stood out was how accommodating the team was—they anticipated needs without being intrusive and made sure every request was handled with a smile. If I could rate this hotel 10 stars instead of 5, I absolutely would. This isn’t just a great place to stay—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll be back, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
The Langham Chicago
The Langham Chicago is perfectly located—right across from Trump Tower, with Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, riverboat docks, and a wide array of restaurants all within easy walking distance. The front desk staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. We booked two rooms—one had weak heating, making it slightly chilly; the other had a leaking toilet and water pooling in the shower area upon arrival. However, these were minor issues compared to the overall experience. The hotel’s elegant ambiance, high-quality furnishings, and attention to detail truly stand out. Despite the small setbacks, the location, service, and general luxury make this a top choice for future stays.
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