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Hotels with Bowling Alley 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.
The St. Regis Chicago
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, just a 10-minute walk from Grant Park and Michigan Avenue, this luxurious hotel is the perfect choice. Whether it's spa treatments, the indoor pool, or the 24-hour fitness center, you'll find plenty of ways to unwind. With childcare services and kids' meals, it's also ideal for families. Two restaurants and 24-hour room service ensure you're never far from a delicious meal, while the bar/lounge is perfect for evening drinks. Added conveniences like valet parking and dry cleaning make your stay even more seamless.
AC Hotel Chicago Downtown
This hotel is perfect for both family trips and business travel! Its prime location is just steps away from Michigan Avenue and State Street, with attractions like the Chicago Riverwalk and Water Tower nearby. The hotel boasts fantastic amenities including an indoor pool, fitness center, and spa services, with a dedicated kids' pool and children's meals for little ones. Rooms are equipped with smart TVs and free WiFi, plus premium toiletries for a cozy stay. Need to host an event? Their business center and banquet facilities make it ideal for both work and leisure!
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile
Looking for a luxurious stay in downtown Chicago? This is the perfect choice! Located in the heart of Magnificent Mile, it’s just minutes away from The Art Institute of Chicago and Navy Pier. Enjoy cozy plush bedding and premium linens in your room. Relax at the 24-hour fitness center, spa, or the rooftop terrace and garden. Whether for business or leisure, the meeting spaces, kids’ play area, and diverse dining options (including an American restaurant and café) cater to all your needs. Don’t miss out on this amazing experience!
Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
This luxury hotel in downtown Chicago is a true gem! Designed by French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, the 32-story glass tower blends modern aesthetics with classic architectural touches. Just minutes away from Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park, it's perfect for exploring the city. With fitness center, tennis courts, and childcare services, it caters to both families and business travelers. Enjoy valet parking and EV charging stations for hassle-free stays. Rated 4.5 stars, it's a top choice for your Chicago adventure!
Marriott Marquis Chicago
This hotel is a perfect choice in Chicago! Located in Near South Side, just steps away from Soldier Field and McCormick Place Convention Center. Enjoy the 24-hour fitness center and stunning garden views, or indulge in delicious meals at any of the 9 on-site restaurants—Woven and Bound is a must-try for American cuisine! Business travelers will appreciate the huge convention center and 63 meeting rooms. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, complete with luxury toiletries for that extra touch of home.
The Westin Chicago River North
Villa d' Citta
Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Chicago Magnificent Mile
Chicago Getaway Hostel
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
The St. Regis Chicago
After checking out a few options, I’m so glad I chose The St. Regis Chicago—it absolutely exceeded my expectations. The location is perfect, just a short walk from downtown attractions and easily accessible via the metro. The room was spacious and beautifully designed with elegant touches throughout. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were attentive and friendly—every interaction felt personal and genuine. Breakfast was outstanding, with a wide variety of fresh, high-quality options. I especially loved the handmade croissants. It’s clear this hotel puts effort into every detail. Overall, the experience was exceptional, and I’d definitely stay here again on my next visit to Chicago.
AC Hotel Chicago Downtown
Staying in the heart of downtown Chicago couldn’t be more convenient—major attractions are just a short walk away, and the neighborhood feels safe and lively. The hotel itself is modern and well-maintained, with clean, spacious rooms and top-notch amenities. The bed was incredibly comfortable, the bathroom spotless, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place offers an excellent balance of comfort, location, and value. Highly recommended!
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile
Staying at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile was a fantastic experience. The location is unbeatable—right next to the metro and just steps away from the convention center, which made everything so convenient. I booked a room with breakfast, but honestly, American breakfasts aren’t really my thing. The dining service wasn’t very attentive—when you ask for something hot, you’re told you can’t have it if you’re on buffet, and if you want to skip the buffet, you’re limited in options. It felt a bit rigid. Also, the tip culture stood out—since the service wasn’t exceptional, I found it awkward to give tips. If they’d been more proactive or friendly, I’d have happily paid extra. But overall, the hotel is spotless, spacious, and well-maintained. The staff are polite, the rooms are comfortable, and being directly connected to the event venue was a huge plus. Just keep in mind that the breakfast experience isn’t as flexible as some might expect. Still, for convenience, comfort, and style, this place delivers—and definitely worth considering.
Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
This hotel has easily been the best value-for-money stay I've experienced in the U.S. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the Magnificent Mile, making it super convenient for exploring downtown Chicago. The design reflects a modern French elegance with thoughtful details throughout—from the furniture choices and color scheme to the overall ambiance. The staff went above and beyond with attentive service; rooms were cleaned promptly, and they even offered the night turndown service, which was such a nice touch. The room came equipped with a Nespresso machine and high-end Balmain bath amenities—luxury at its finest. The bedding was incredibly comfortable, perfect for a good night’s sleep after a long day of sightseeing. If you're visiting Chicago, this is absolutely a top recommendation. A truly memorable stay.
Marriott Marquis Chicago
I was in Chicago for the marathon, and hotel availability was super tight that week—so I ended up booking a Marriott Marquis, something I wouldn’t normally consider. But honestly, this unexpected choice turned out to be one of the best decisions of my trip. After a long day of running, having a comfortable, clean, and well-designed room made all the difference. The staff were friendly and efficient, but what truly stood out was the view—right across from the room, you’ve got an open, breathtaking vista of Lake Michigan. Waking up to that calm blue expanse every morning felt like a little luxury treat. Whether you’re here for events or just exploring the city, this hotel delivers a great balance of comfort, location, and beauty. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s part of the experience. Definitely worth it.
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.
Villa d' Citta
Absolutely fantastic stay at Villa d'Citta! The location is perfect—nestled in a charming neighborhood of Chicago, just a short walk or transit ride from the city’s main attractions. While parking nearby can be tricky, we found a spot after a bit of patience, and overall, we were lucky to stay close to the hotel. The building itself is beautifully designed with a rustic-chic aesthetic that feels both warm and sophisticated. When we first arrived, we were surprised not to find a private bathroom inside our room—but upon contacting the host, we learned it was actually located on the hallway level, spacious and clean. The room itself was cozy and comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Breakfast was outstanding—freshly prepared each morning with homemade pastries, fresh fruit, coffee, and more. It felt like a personal touch, not just a standard offering. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully curated. Highly recommend Villa d'Citta for travelers who value charm, comfort, and authenticity in their Chicago experience.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the Magnificent Mile, making it super convenient for shopping and sightseeing. The room was clean, spacious, and comfortable, with a great bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. I especially loved the breakfast—my favorite was the oatmeal, perfectly cooked and served warm with fresh fruit and toast. It felt like a homey touch that started the day right. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout. For the quality, price, and convenience, this place is unbeatable. I’ll definitely be returning on my next trip to Chicago!
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Chicago Magnificent Mile
Staying at the Hilton Grand Vacations Club Chicago Magnificent Mile was an absolute delight. Located right on the famous Magnificent Mile, everything you could want—shopping, dining, and entertainment—is just steps away. The location is unbeatable, with easy access to public transit and major attractions. The room was spacious, well-appointed, and offered stunning views of the city skyline and Madison Avenue at night—truly magical. My only minor note was the lack of daily housekeeping, but I was pleasantly surprised that the hotel accommodates special requests for cleaning upon advance notice. Overall, the experience was excellent, and the value for money is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
Chicago Getaway Hostel
I couldn't have asked for a better stay! Chicago Getaway Hostel exceeded all my expectations. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful from check-in to checkout—always smiling and ready to assist. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and cozy, with clean linens and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a good night's sleep. Breakfast was a real highlight: fresh fruit, hot coffee, and a variety of options that made starting the day feel special. Located just steps away from public transit, getting around downtown Chicago was super easy. For the price, this place offers unbeatable value. I’ll definitely be back next time I visit 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.
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.
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