Step into Lakeview, where Chicago’s soul comes alive—this vibrant neighborhood blends art, coffee aromas, and stories around every corner. From indie boutiques to hidden speakeasies, every step feels like turning the pages of a living city poem. Stroll along North Avenue at sunset, watch golden light spill across the lake, and listen to locals chatting softly—time seems to slow down. This isn’t just a place to visit; it’s life itself, beautifully written.




















Everything you need to know about Lakeview
Marriott Chicago Lakeshore is a top choice, offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline from its floor-to-ceiling windows. Located steps away from Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago, it combines urban convenience with serene lakeside ambiance. The hotel features a rooftop terrace perfect for sunset views and provides complimentary shuttles to downtown attractions. Modern rooms include smart lighting and premium bedding, ensuring comfort. Guests also enjoy access to on-site fitness facilities and lakeside walking paths—ideal for morning jogs or evening strolls along the water. For unique experiences, nearby The Magnificent Mile offers shopping, dining, and seasonal events like the Luminaria Festival.
Yes, many hotels in Lakeview, such as Marriott Chicago Lakeshore, offer complimentary shuttle services to downtown areas like Michigan Avenue and the Loop, with a 15-minute ride. The CTA Red Line and Green Line stations are just blocks away, providing fast access to major hubs including Union Station and McCormick Place. Some properties partner with nearby attractions like Lincoln Park Zoo and Chicago Botanic Garden to offer bundled tickets, enhancing travel efficiency. With excellent transit links and proximity to cultural hotspots, Lakeview serves as a strategic base for exploring both city life and scenic escapes.
Lakeview offers exceptional outdoor experiences: rent bikes and ride along the Lakefront Trail, where you’ll see seagulls soaring and sunsets painting the sky. Try a kayaking tour on Lake Michigan for a fresh perspective of the Chicago skyline. During summer, Millennium Park hosts open-air film screenings and live concerts under the stars. Families love visiting Lincoln Park Zoo and the Garden Maze within the park. Early mornings are perfect for photography along the lakeside promenade, capturing reflections and misty horizons. These activities blend natural beauty with urban energy, showcasing Lakeview’s dynamic character.
Absolutely. Hotels like Marriott Chicago Lakeshore offer family suites, child-friendly amenities, including cribs, playrooms, and kids’ menus. Nearby attractions such as Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago Children’s Museum are within walking distance, ideal for family outings. On-site features include an indoor heated pool and children’s activity workshops, ensuring entertainment for all ages. Restaurants in the area commonly provide high chairs and kid-friendly options, making meals stress-free. With safety, convenience, and welcoming environments, Lakeview is a top destination for family travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Lakeview boasts vibrant local cuisine: Bavette's Bar & Boeuf serves premium American steaks paired with craft beers. The Purple Pig offers fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Outdoor markets along the lake feature iconic Chicago-style hot dogs and deep-dish pizza stalls—must-try street food. Along Michigan Avenue, boutique cafés serve expertly brewed coffee and handmade pastries, perfect for afternoon relaxation. Many restaurants have lakeside patios, allowing guests to savor meals while watching sunsets and city light shows—blending culinary delight with stunning views.
Walk about 15 minutes through Millennium Park and past the Cloud Gate sculpture to reach the Art Institute of Chicago. Alternatively, take the CTA Green Line to the "Civic Opera" stop—just a 3-minute walk. The museum offers wheelchair access, free admission on Wednesdays, and multilingual audio guides. Its collection includes over 300,000 works, spanning European masterpieces and contemporary installations. Arrive early or book timed entry in advance to avoid peak crowds and make the most of your visit.
See what other travelers say about Lakeview

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.

Staying at Hotel Lincoln was an absolute delight. The lake-view room offered breathtaking views of the water—just opening the curtains in the morning felt like a little escape. Right outside the hotel, a short walk across the street leads straight to Lincoln Park and the Museum of History, making it incredibly convenient for exploring without needing transportation. The neighborhood is quiet yet vibrant, with plenty of dining options nearby. The location, comfort, and overall experience made this stay unforgettable. Highly recommend this gem in Chicago.

Staying at Freehand Chicago was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown, with easy access to public transit and all the major attractions just a short walk away. The vibe of the hotel is cool and modern, with a great mix of comfort and style. While the rooms are on the smaller side, they’re thoughtfully designed and make excellent use of space—plus, everything you need is included. It’s such a smart choice for travelers who value convenience and atmosphere without breaking the bank. I couldn’t be happier with my stay and would definitely come back again.

Staying at The Chicago Hotel Collection - Ambassador Gold Coast was a fantastic experience overall. The room was spacious and immaculately clean, offering plenty of comfort for a relaxing stay. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk to downtown Chicago, with shops, cafes, and restaurants right on the doorstep. I loved how close it was to a local Starbucks too, perfect for that morning coffee fix without having to go far. The neighborhood feels safe, quiet, and well-connected, making it ideal whether you're exploring the city or just unwinding after a long day. Great value, excellent service, and a prime spot—definitely planning to come back.

The staff at the hotel—Raymond, Alex, George, and Alston—were absolutely outstanding. From the moment I arrived, their professionalism and genuine warmth made me feel right at home. They went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect during my stay. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from the Magnificent Mile, with easy access to shopping, dining, and attractions. I’m already planning my next visit and would highly recommend this hotel to anyone traveling to Chicago. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience.

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!

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.

I completely disagree with some of the negative reviews—this place is better than expected! We stayed in a spacious, recently renovated room with a ceiling fan and air conditioning, making it super comfortable. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the interior design has a modern, stylish vibe. There's also a shared kitchen available for guests, which is great if you want to prepare your own meals. Plus, the Magnificent Mile is just a 5-minute walk away—perfect for shopping and dining. Overall, the location, cleanliness, and value make this a solid choice for travelers looking for a convenient and pleasant stay in Chicago.

I’ll admit I was pretty skeptical about staying here after reading a bunch of negative reviews, especially those warning about hidden fees and cleanliness issues. But honestly, my experience completely changed my mind. From the moment we arrived, everything felt clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed—the hotel’s aesthetic is cohesive and stylish. Check-in was quick and smooth, and the front desk staff were genuinely helpful, answering all our questions, including ones about the fees listed on the website. While some guests complain about 'hidden' charges, they’re actually disclosed upfront—just not always easy to spot. If you read the fine print carefully during booking and check-in, there are no surprises. Our room was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for hanging clothes and multiple hangers. The locker-style closets matched the sporty, contemporary vibe perfectly. Floors and bathrooms were clean overall, though I did notice a spider in the shower corner—nothing alarming, just something to mention. Downstairs, there’s an open kitchen with a shared fridge and even a slow cooker—a nice touch! There are also fun games like ping pong and air hockey, making it great for couples or families. Free drinks are available, which is a welcome bonus. If noise from passing trains is a concern, I’d recommend asking for a room farther down the hall on the first floor. We were lucky—we stayed in a quiet area, barely noticed any train sounds (more like soft white noise), but earplugs might still help if you’re a light sleeper. Overall, I’d highly recommend this place. It’s well-located, the design stands out, and the stay was enjoyable. Just be aware of the $120 refundable deposit and the $50 guest fee—knowing these ahead of time makes a big difference. I’m genuinely grateful for the positive experience and would definitely come back.

The room felt outdated, and the furniture was extremely uncomfortable—hard to relax in. The air conditioner made a loud, disruptive noise, almost like an unbalanced washing machine running nonstop. We had to check out early due to schedule changes, but the front desk refused to accommodate us, claiming we’d have to pay a fee because we weren’t gold members—despite being silver members. That policy felt unfair and frustrating. Overall, the experience didn’t match expectations, especially given the price. Poor service, subpar amenities, and lack of flexibility make this stay far from recommended.

The location is absolutely perfect—walking distance to Wrigley Field and super convenient for exploring the neighborhood. I was impressed by how great the value was, especially considering how close we were to one of Chicago’s most iconic spots. The price felt fair for the convenience and proximity, making it a top choice for any visitor looking to enjoy the area without breaking the bank.

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.
Explore more amazing destinations