Hotel Filters
Best Western Hotels & Resorts Group Hotels Near iO
Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel
The Whitehall Hotel, BW Premier Collection
Best Western River North Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about iO
The Peninsula Chicago is a top choice, located just steps from iO on Michigan Avenue. Its floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of the Chicago River and the city skyline, especially stunning at night when the lights illuminate the architectural marvels. The hotel features a world-class spa, Michelin-starred dining, and exceptional service. With a mere 10-minute walk to iO, it combines luxury with unbeatable convenience for art enthusiasts and urban explorers.
The most convenient option is taking the CTA Blue Line train from Clark/Lake Station, a 5-minute walk to iO. Taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft take about 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. For eco-friendly travel, Divvy Bikes offer a scenic route along Michigan Avenue, allowing visitors to enjoy street art and modern architecture while riding through the vibrant urban core to iO.
Near iO, don’t miss the Chicago Improv Workshop led by local performers—perfect for experiencing spontaneous creativity firsthand. Just a short walk away, the Art Institute of Chicago offers free admission on select days, showcasing masterpieces by Monet and Van Gogh. In the evening, stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk, admire the fountains and sculptures of Millennium Park, and capture photos at Cloud Gate (The Bean)—a symbol of the city’s artistic soul blending nature and urban design.
Yes! Gibson's Restaurant & Bar, located on Michigan Avenue, offers a welcoming atmosphere with child-friendly seating and a dedicated kids’ menu. Their signature Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and prime cuts of steak are crowd-pleasers for all ages. Outdoor seating provides scenic views of Millennium Park, perfect for family meals. The restaurant also hosts regular family events like children’s art workshops and storytime sessions, turning dining into a memorable cultural experience.
While not all hotels provide free parking, The Peninsula Chicago features a private underground garage starting at $60 per night, often discounted with HopeGoo packages. For cost savings, consider using public parking lots in downtown Chicago or apps like SpotHero for reserved spots. Given iO’s central location, many hotels encourage guests to use public transit or walk—some even offer free electric bike rentals, supporting sustainable travel and reducing environmental impact.
Nightlife around iO shines! Visit Green Street Lounge, a hidden jazz bar offering live music and craft cocktails in an intimate setting. Don’t miss the nightly Millennium Park Light Show at 8 PM, when Cloud Gate and surrounding sculptures glow in vibrant colors, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Alternatively, take a Chicago River Cruise after dark to see the city’s skyscrapers and Michigan Avenue illuminated in dazzling light displays—a romantic and visually stunning experience.
Absolutely! Cloud Gate by Anish Kapoor—shaped like a shiny bean—is a must-photograph landmark, reflecting the skyline and sky in its polished surface. Nearby, Crown Fountain in Millennium Park offers a dynamic, interactive water display perfect for creative shots. For street art lovers, explore Murphy Street off Michigan Avenue, where vibrant murals and large-scale graffiti pieces showcase bold urban creativity and youthful energy.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about iO
Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel
Staying at the Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel in Chicago was an absolute delight. The location is fantastic—just a short ride from downtown, quiet and safe, making it perfect for both business and leisure travelers. My room was spacious, incredibly comfortable, and remarkably quiet, which made for a restful night's sleep. The bedding was plush and supportive, and the soundproofing worked perfectly. Everything about the hotel felt well-maintained and thoughtfully designed. Friendly staff, clean facilities, and excellent value for money. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Chicago—it’s a standout choice!
The Whitehall Hotel, BW Premier Collection
Absolutely loved my stay at The Whitehall Hotel! Located right in the heart of downtown Chicago, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the beach—a major plus for me. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout my visit. My room was spacious, immaculately clean, and filled with all the modern amenities I needed. The breakfast buffet was delicious and varied—perfect start to each day. But the real highlight? The view from the window. I spent hours admiring the city lights at night—truly breathtaking. I’ll definitely be coming back here on my next trip to Chicago. A top-tier experience from start to finish!
Best Western River North Hotel
Staying at the Best Western River North Hotel during my business trip to Chicago was a fantastic choice. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making check-in smooth and stress-free. What stood out most was the neighborhood's safety—walking around day or night felt completely secure, which is rare in many urban areas. The location is unbeatable: everything downtown, from attractions to restaurants and shops, is just a short walk away. I appreciated how convenient it was for exploring the city without relying on taxis or long commutes. Plus, the value for money is outstanding—comfortable rooms, excellent service, and a great central spot all at a reasonable price. Definitely a top pick for future trips to Chicago.
Ruby Room
My stay at Ruby Room Hotel was absolutely delightful. The room was incredibly comfortable and quiet, making it the perfect retreat after a day of exploring Chicago. It's perfectly located just steps away from a wide variety of dining options—great for breakfast, dinner, or late-night snacks. I loved how convenient everything was, and the staff were friendly and helpful. This place truly makes your visit to Chicago feel seamless and enjoyable. I’d definitely come back.
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.
Wicker Park Inn
Staying at Wicker Park Inn was such a refreshing change from the usual hotel experience. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and genuinely helpful with local tips and recommendations. The room itself was beautifully decorated, clean, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I especially loved the thoughtful amenities: high-quality linens, a well-stocked mini-fridge, complimentary coffee, and modern bathroom fixtures. It felt more like a stylish boutique stay than a standard hotel. Located in the heart of Wicker Park, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods—great cafes, shops, and nightlife are just steps away. I’d absolutely book again and highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting the city.
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 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.
The Chicago Hotel Collection Millennium Park
The location is fantastic—just half a block from Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. There’s a Walgreens and several restaurants right next door, which adds convenience for daily needs. The apartment itself is spacious with two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and great views across the street to the Cultural Center, which is definitely worth a visit. However, there were some serious issues during our stay. Water damage was visible in the unit, with flakes of ceiling paint falling onto the bed—very concerning. While the kitchen had appliances, it came completely empty; no kettle, microwave, or even basic cookware, so we couldn’t even heat water or reheat leftovers. Housekeeping also didn’t provide washcloths, and the floors were so dirty that my socks and feet turned black after walking around. Internet and cell reception were terrible—we had to contact customer service for login details, but it took hours to get a reply, and even then, the connection kept dropping in and out. Overall, the property has strong potential due to its prime location and size, but the lack of basic amenities and maintenance problems significantly impact the experience. I’d recommend this place only if you’re okay with dealing with these shortcomings.
The Willows Hotel
The Willows lived up to my expectations based on the reviews I’d read beforehand. As a historic boutique hotel, it’s not overly spacious—rooms and bathrooms are on the smaller side—but everything was clean, well-maintained, and comfortable. The air conditioning worked perfectly throughout our stay, which was a big plus in the summer heat. Located in the Lake View neighborhood, it’s conveniently close to local attractions and public transit. If you're looking for a cozy, no-frills stay without the luxury price tag, this is a solid choice. A great little gem in a fantastic area.
Other Destinations You Might Like
Explore more amazing destinations