
Chicago/Riverside Square & River's Edge Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Tucked along the riverbank, Riverside Square & River's Edge is Chicago’s quietest poem. Stroll past gentle ripples, listen to birdsong layered over distant city hums, and let your mind slow down. This isn’t just a walk—it’s an escape where nature whispers, and the world feels just right.

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!

Want to experience the heart of Chicago? This hotel is in the perfect location, just a 6-minute walk to Michigan Avenue for shopping and sightseeing! Enjoy the indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center to relax or stay active. The rooms are spacious and cozy, featuring flat-screen TVs and down comforters for a restful stay. Business travelers will appreciate the well-equipped meeting spaces and business center. With three restaurants and two bars/lounges, dining options are plentiful. Plus, it’s family-friendly and pet-friendly—making it a great choice for everyone!















Everything you need to know about Riverside Square & River's Edge
For travelers seeking proximity to Riverside Square & River's Edge, the Marriott Chicago Riverwalk is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the Chicago Riverwalk and adjacent to Michigan Avenue. This hotel offers river-view rooms with panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and passing riverboats, ideal for scenic evening strolls.
Another excellent option is The Peninsula Chicago, slightly farther but renowned for its luxury amenities and exceptional service. The hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to downtown and the riverfront, making it convenient for guests who value comfort and convenience. Public transit is also accessible—both the Blue Line and Green Line CTA trains are within a 10-minute walk, connecting easily to attractions like Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Guests staying near Riverside Square can easily access downtown Chicago via the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). The nearest Blue Line and Green Line stations are just an 8-minute walk away, offering a 10- to 15-minute ride to key destinations such as Michigan Avenue, Union Station, and Millennium Park.
Alternatively, the Chicago Riverwalk itself serves as a scenic pedestrian route into downtown. Walking along the river offers stunning views of historic bridges and architecture. For eco-friendly travel, Divvy bike-sharing stations are available nearby, allowing guests to explore the city on two wheels while enjoying a sustainable commute.
At River's Edge, visitors can enjoy several unique experiences. First, take a Chicago Riverboat Cruise to view iconic landmarks like Michigan Avenue, Cloud Gate, and JPMorgan Chase Tower from the water—especially magical at night when lights reflect on the river.
Stroll or jog along the Riverwalk path for a peaceful morning routine with panoramic city views. Seasonal outdoor art installations featuring sculptures integrated into the natural landscape offer perfect photo spots.
Every Friday evening features the River's Edge Live Music Series, showcasing local bands and creating a vibrant urban atmosphere. For a special treat, book a River’s Edge Picnic Package, complete with gourmet food and drinks, designed for relaxation on the riverside lawn.
Stay at Hyatt House Chicago River North, just a 5-minute walk from River's Edge and adjacent to Riverside Square. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool. Nearby attractions include guided river cruises, outdoor farmers markets, and scenic paths ideal for strolling. Easy access to the CTA subway connects you quickly to Michigan Avenue and Museum Campus, making it a perfect base for exploring downtown Chicago with kids.
The River's Edge promenade is only about 200 meters from Riverside Square, accessible by walking along North Michigan Avenue from hotels like Marriott Chicago Downtown or Hilton Chicago River North. The path features shaded seating areas, benches, and scenic overlooks perfect for morning walks or evening views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Some hotels even offer free bike rentals, allowing guests to explore the riverside trail at their own pace.
Take a Chicago Riverboat Tour departing daily at 10 AM, offering panoramic views of Millennium Park, United Center, and historic bridges. During summer, enjoy live concerts and art fairs such as the Chicago Riverwalk Art Festival. For nature lovers, relax at Riverside Square’s green spaces with a picnic, or catch an open-air performance at Theatre on the Riverwalk—a vibrant blend of culture, leisure, and urban nature.
Walk just 10 minutes from Riverside Square to Michigan Avenue, leading directly to The Magnificent Mile and Millennium Park. Take the CTA Blue Line at Clark/Lake Station for a 3-minute ride to Navy Pier and Grant Park. Alternatively, use Divvy bikes—multiple stations are located at River's Edge—to cycle to Grant Park in under 15 minutes. This eco-friendly option combines convenience with scenic city views.
Visit The Capital Grille River North, located within the Riverside Square building, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river lights and nighttime skyline. Specializing in premium steaks and seafood, the restaurant also hosts live jazz evenings. Another option is Lula Café & Bar, offering a riverside terrace with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and fine wines. Both are within a 5-minute walk from most hotels, perfect for an intimate evening.
Don’t miss the Light Bridge at River's Edge, illuminated nightly from 6 PM to 10 PM with dynamic light projections that reflect beautifully on the water—ideal for capturing nighttime reflections. The glass façade of Riverside Square combined with the flowing river creates a stunning urban mirror effect, perfect for wide-angle shots. Early mornings bring misty scenes ideal for soft-focus photography, while golden hour offers dramatic silhouettes of the Chicago skyline against the river.
See what other travelers say about Riverside Square & River's Edge

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.

Out of three hotels I've stayed in Chicago, this one was by far the best. I was actually planning to cancel my booking due to a mix-up, but since it couldn’t be cancelled and alternative options were too expensive, I decided to just stick with it. To my surprise, they allowed me to check in over two hours early, and the room they assigned had an incredible view—directly overlooking the Chicago River and the Trump Tower. The location is perfect: just a short walk from the riverwalk, making it super easy to hop on a sightseeing boat tour or enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the water. Everything about the stay exceeded expectations—from the view to the convenience. A truly standout experience, and definitely worth recommending.

Staying at Virgin Hotels Chicago was an absolutely fantastic experience overall. The location is unbeatable—just a short 15-minute commute by train to downtown, with plenty of great restaurants and shops nearby. The room itself was sleek, modern, and incredibly comfortable—the bed was just the right firmness for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were friendly and attentive without being pushy, which made the whole stay feel welcoming. The bathroom was well-designed with excellent fixtures and smart dry/wet separation. Breakfast was a highlight—wide variety of Western options plus some local touches that added a nice personal flair. For the quality and value, it's hard to beat. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers on every front. I’d definitely come back if I visit Chicago again.

Staying at The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago was an absolute highlight of my trip to Chicago. Located right on Michigan Avenue, just steps away from the 360 Observatory and a short walk to Lake Michigan, the location is unbeatable for sightseeing and exploring. I arrived early and appreciated the complimentary baggage storage—no stress waiting around with heavy luggage. The hotel’s modern, elegant design and friendly staff made the whole experience seamless. From the prime location to the thoughtful amenities, this property delivers exceptional value and comfort. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit Chicago.

This hotel is absolutely fantastic from start to finish. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from major attractions and downtown Chicago’s best spots. My room was spacious, immaculately clean, and beautifully designed with modern touches that made it feel both luxurious and welcoming. The staff went above and beyond to ensure a seamless experience, and the overall atmosphere exudes timeless elegance with a contemporary twist. I’d 100% stay here again on my next trip to Chicago—truly one of the standout stays I’ve had in years.

The ground-floor restaurant makes dining effortless—no need to leave the hotel even if you don’t want to eat in-house. The room was spacious and incredibly comfortable, making the stay truly enjoyable. With easy access to downtown via public transit, it’s a perfect choice for travelers who value convenience and quality. I’d definitely book again.

Staying at Hotel 55 Chicago Downtown was an absolute delight. The room was surprisingly spacious—definitely more than I expected for the price. We booked a double king bed setup, and each of us had our own generous-sized bed, which made for a very comfortable and peaceful night’s sleep. The bedding felt luxurious, and the whole space had that clean, fresh vibe you can only get when a hotel truly cares about detail. The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful—check-in was quick and welcoming. What really stood out was the location: just steps from the subway, making it super easy to explore downtown Chicago and nearby attractions. It's rare to find such a great balance between comfort, cleanliness, and value. I’d definitely book here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

Staying at The Hoxton, Chicago was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great cafes, boutiques, and local vibes. The room was stylish, clean, and thoughtfully designed with a modern touch, and the bed was incredibly comfortable. I loved how quiet it was—even with the city buzzing outside, the soundproofing kept everything peaceful. The staff were warm and helpful, offering personalized tips on nearby spots to explore. Even a complimentary coffee upon check-in made the experience feel special. It’s rare to find such a well-balanced blend of style, comfort, and hospitality. I’d definitely book here again and highly recommend it for both business and leisure travelers.

The location is perfect—just steps away from downtown Chicago and super convenient for getting around via the train. The rooms overlook Wacker Drive, offering a great view of the city skyline. Staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, going the extra mile to ensure a comfortable stay. From check-in to check-out, everything was seamless. This hotel is an absolute gem for anyone visiting Chicago—it’s definitely my top pick and I’d stay here again without hesitation.

We couldn’t have asked for a better weekend getaway with my girlfriends at The Wheeler Mansion. From the moment we arrived, the elegance and charm of this boutique hotel set the tone for an unforgettable stay. Each room was uniquely decorated with distinctive artwork and vintage touches—no two spaces felt the same. The grand foyer and beautifully furnished living and dining areas made us feel like we’d stepped into a storybook. David, our concierge, went above and beyond—he was attentive, friendly, and even drove us to the theater for our show, Hairspray. He also recommended dinner at Pilsen Yards, which turned out to be one of the best meals of the trip: delicious food and top-notch service. We left feeling completely refreshed and inspired. I can’t wait to return, especially in summer when the grounds are in full bloom—just looking at the photos, it’s clear this place is even more magical in warmer weather.

Staying at Claridge House was a delightful experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the Chicago History Museum and only a few blocks from the scenic shoreline of Lake Michigan. There are plenty of excellent restaurants within walking distance, and getting around town via Uber is super convenient. The building itself has a classic charm with elegant details that give it character without feeling outdated. The front desk staff were exceptionally professional and friendly, making check-in and check-out seamless. I booked a room with two queen beds—spacious, clean, and well-maintained, especially the large bathroom which felt like a private retreat. Valet parking is available next door, though it’s on the pricier side, but honestly, given the central location, it feels justified. Overall, I had a wonderful stay and would definitely recommend this gem to anyone visiting Chicago.

Located right in the heart of downtown Chicago, this hotel offers an unbeatable position in the bustling central district. Despite being surrounded by city energy, the property itself is surprisingly quiet and peaceful—perfect for a relaxing stay. I noticed many local American guests staying here, with no tour groups in sight, giving it a more authentic, residential vibe. Walking to Lake Michigan is incredibly convenient—just a short stroll away. While our room didn’t include breakfast, there are plenty of great dining options nearby, making it easy to grab a meal without hassle. The location, comfort, and overall experience earned my full recommendation. I’d definitely book again if I’m back in Chicago.
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