Chicago/iO Top Hotel Picks
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| # | Hotel | Stars | Rating | Reviews | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chicago Getaway Hostel | ★★ | 4.2 | 8 | 2.39 km |
| 2 | Fairfield Inn & Suites Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile | ★★ | 4.7 | 19 | 6.53 km |
| 3 | 4BR Corporate Suite Central and Modern | ★★ | 4.4 | - | 4.29 km |
| 4 | 3BR New Modern Lux City Escape | ★★ | 4.9 | - | 4.29 km |
| 5 | Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile | ★★ | 4.3 | 12 | 6.34 km |
| 6 | Ground Floor Studios in Chicago by 747 Lofts | ★★ | 4.8 | - | 5.65 km |
| 7 | Chicago Third Floor Studio by 747 Lofts | ★★ | 4.8 | - | 5.65 km |
| 8 | Roscoe Village Guesthouse | ★★ | 4.6 | - | 2.14 km |
| 9 | The Villa Toscana | ★★ | 4.1 | 1 | 0.6 km |
| 10 | FOUND Hotel Chicago River North | ★★ | 4 | - | 6.25 km |
| 11 | Dorothy's | ★★ | 4.1 | - | 0.59 km |
| 12 | Ohio House Motel | ★★ | 4.3 | 4 | 6.29 km |
| 13 | Corporate Suites Network at Columbus Plaza | ★★ | 4.2 | - | 7.11 km |
| 14 | Old Chicago Inn | ★★ | 4 | - | 0.68 km |
| 15 | Chicago Second Floor Studio by 747 Lofts | ★★ | 3.9 | - | 5.65 km |
| 16 | Heart O' Chicago Motel | ★★ | 3.8 | 1 | 5.03 km |
| 17 | Rodeway Inn Chicago/Evanston | ★★ | 3.4 | 1 | 6.81 km |
| 18 | Rodeway Inn | ★★ | 3.1 | 3 | 6.29 km |
| 19 | The Chicago Hotel Collection Millennium Park | ★★ | 3 | - | 7.5 km |
| 20 | Inn at Lincoln Park | ★★ | 3.3 | - | 1.84 km |
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.
See what other travelers say about iO
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!
Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the Starbucks flagship store, Chicago Riverwalk, Navy Pier, art museums, and Willis Tower. Everything you’d want to see or do is within easy reach, whether on foot or with a quick ride. The breakfast buffet was fantastic—plenty of hot and cold options, all fresh and well-prepared. I also discovered a nearby restaurant called Ming Xuan, which serves delicious Chinese food that’s worth a visit. The whole experience felt seamless, convenient, and enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone visiting downtown Chicago.
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.
I absolutely loved my stay at The Villa Toscana! From the moment I arrived, everything felt special. The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown Chicago and surrounded by great restaurants and shops. The room was spacious and beautifully designed with a cozy Italian countryside vibe. Lying in bed and looking out at the lush garden was pure bliss, like I was on a mini vacation in Tuscany. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist with anything, even offering local tips and helping with luggage. It’s rare to find such a warm, welcoming atmosphere combined with top-notch comfort and value. If you’re visiting Chicago, this hotel should be your first choice. I’ll definitely be coming back.
Staying at Ohio House Motel was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and super convenient for public transit. I loved that I could store my luggage both before check-in and after check-out, which made our trip so much smoother. The room was spotless, fresh-smelling, and had all the essentials—including thoughtful touches like makeup removal wipes for ladies. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, going out of their way to ensure we felt welcome. Best part? We slept like babies—no noise, no disruptions, just peaceful comfort. My friends and I were so impressed we’re already planning to come back. If you're paying with cash, there's a $150 deposit required at check-in, so be sure to have that ready. Overall, this place is a hidden gem with top-tier value.
Staying at Old Chicago Inn was an absolute delight! The historic charm of this bed and breakfast truly sets it apart. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the clean, safe, and welcoming atmosphere. The shared living space—including a well-equipped kitchen—was perfect for relaxing or preparing light meals. A complimentary continental breakfast was a nice touch, offering a quick start to the day without having to go out. My room had a half-bath, which was surprisingly convenient and added comfort. Located just steps from public transportation, getting around downtown Chicago was effortless. There was a minor delay during check-in, but the staff handled it promptly and professionally. Overall, this place offers exceptional value with its prime location, cozy ambiance, and friendly service. It’s clear that attention to detail and guest satisfaction are top priorities. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
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 location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Lincoln Park, just steps away from greenery, trails, and all the charm of downtown Chicago. This 1930s-era building has clearly been thoughtfully repurposed, and while some architectural quirks remain (probably from its original use), they add character rather than detract. The space is clean, well-maintained, and feels cozy and welcoming. Staff are friendly and genuinely helpful—always a plus. While not the cheapest option on the block, the price feels fair given the prime location and comfort level. If you value being immersed in nature without sacrificing convenience, this hotel delivers exactly that.
Staying at Waldorf Astoria Chicago was an absolute delight from start to finish. The suite featured a beautiful fireplace, and the front desk staff kindly reminded us about it—plus, a professional came to light it for us, which added such a cozy, luxurious touch. The room itself is spacious and incredibly comfortable, making it feel like a true retreat in the heart of downtown Chicago. Being just steps away from Michigan Avenue’s luxury shopping district is a major plus—everything you’d want is right outside the door, from high-end boutiques to great dining options. Public transit access is also excellent. Every staff member we interacted with went above and beyond with genuine warmth and attention to detail. It’s rare to find such exceptional service combined with elegance and convenience. I’d absolutely stay here again—and recommend it without hesitation.
Staying at Park Hyatt Chicago was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and impeccably designed, with brand-new amenities that made the experience feel luxurious and modern. The bed was incredibly comfortable—woke up feeling refreshed every morning. The bathroom was well thought out with a great shower system and smart dry-wet separation. I loved how central the location was; it's just a short walk to the train station, making downtown access super easy. There are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, so you never run out of things to do. It’s not just about the comfort—it’s the attention to detail, the quiet elegance, and the overall vibe that makes this hotel stand out. Definitely worth every penny.
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.
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.
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