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Accor Group Hotels Near Shedd Aquarium
Step into Shedd Aquarium, and it’s like diving into a living dream—thousands of fish swirl behind glass walls, sharks glide past with quiet grace, and the blue glow makes every breath feel softer. This isn’t just an exhibit; it’s a sensory journey where time slows down, perfect for stealing quiet moments with someone special, whispering promises only hearts can hear.
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!
Swissotel Chicago
Nestled in the heart of Chicago, this luxurious hotel is just steps away from Magnificent Mile and Millennium Park, perfect for exploring the city! Traveling with kids? Enjoy peace of mind with childcare services and stay active at the 24-hour fitness center. Unwind with massages and spa treatments after a long day. Indulge in delicious meals at The Palm Restaurant or sip cocktails at one of the two bars. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting rooms and business center. Plus, you can even try sailing or kayaking nearby. A dream stay for families and professionals alike!
Fairmont Chicago - Millennium Park
Nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, this luxury hotel seamlessly blends classic and contemporary styles, offering breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Millennium Park. Just a short walk to the Art Institute of Chicago and Navy Pier, the location couldn't be better! With amenities like a fitness center, meeting rooms, and childcare services, it’s perfect for both business trips and family vacations. Enjoy added conveniences like valet parking and laundry services, making your stay even more effortless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Shedd Aquarium
Marriott Waterfront Chicago is a top choice, just a 10-minute walk from Shedd Aquarium, featuring lake-view rooms with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. The hotel offers free shuttle service to downtown and museum districts, plus a dedicated children’s activity center perfect for families. Its on-site lakeside outdoor restaurant serves fresh seafood, capturing authentic Chicago flavors.
Another excellent option is Conrad Chicago, located atop a high-rise with an elevated sky bar offering sweeping vistas of the lake and aquarium night lights. The hotel provides personalized travel planning services to help guests optimize their visit to Shedd Aquarium, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
The most convenient option is taking the CTA bus line 53 or 60 from downtown Chicago, which reaches Shedd Aquarium Station in about 20 minutes with frequent departures. For a scenic route, use the Divvy bike-sharing system and ride along Michigan Avenue to the museum district—approximately 15 minutes through beautiful lakeside paths. Alternatively, Uber or Lyft takes around 12 minutes and costs $20–$25, ideal for travelers with luggage or visiting at night. All options provide direct access to the aquarium entrance without transfers, maximizing convenience.
The Museum Campus Park surrounding Shedd Aquarium features engaging family experiences such as the touch pools, where children can interact with small sharks and sea stars in a safe, educational environment. Nearby, the Chicago Museum of Natural History hosts the Kids Science Discovery Center, offering interactive exhibits themed around marine life—including simulated deep-sea explorations and coral reef games—perfect for young learners. Weekly Family Discovery Days include guided tours led by expert docents, exploring both Shedd Aquarium and adjacent museums with a focus on ocean conservation. Outdoor splash pads and sand play areas also provide fun, relaxing spaces for kids to unwind.
Try The Capital Grille, located in the Chicago Millennium Building, renowned for its premium steaks and seafood. Its lakeside terrace offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the illuminated Shedd Aquarium at night, making it ideal for special occasions. Another top pick is Bistro 104, a cozy French bistro tucked within the museum district, specializing in daily fresh catches. Their signature dish, pan-seared cod with lemon cream sauce, is highly acclaimed. With quiet ambiance, attentive service, and a five-minute walk from the aquarium, it’s a perfect post-visit dining destination. Many dishes are paired with local craft beers, enhancing the overall culinary experience.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Shedd Aquarium
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.
Swissotel Chicago
Staying at Swissotel Chicago was an absolute delight! The view from the room was breathtaking—direct riverfront access with stunning views of the Chicago River, and being steps away from downtown makes exploring the city incredibly easy. Safety is top-notch; I felt secure throughout my stay, even late at night. One thing to note: the hotel doesn’t provide complimentary water in the rooms. The convenience store downstairs charges a bit more than expected, so I’d recommend picking up bottled water from a nearby grocery store instead. On the bright side, cleanliness was excellent—the bedding was fresh and comfortable, and all the toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash) were well-stocked. Just remember to bring your own toothbrush and toothpaste, as those aren’t provided. Overall, the location, ambiance, and comfort make this hotel a standout choice for travelers looking for a premium experience in the heart of Chicago.
Fairmont Chicago - Millennium Park
Staying at the Fairmont Chicago - Millennium Park was an absolute highlight of my trip to Chicago. Located right on Michigan Avenue, just steps from Millennium Park and a short walk from Trump Tower, the location is unbeatable—everything you’d want is within walking distance. The hotel itself feels luxurious from the moment you step inside, with elegant interiors and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help. Breakfast was one of the best I’ve had, with a wide variety of options including fresh pastries, made-to-order eggs, and international dishes. The neighborhood is safe, quiet, and convenient, with several grocery stores and cafes nearby. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers on every front. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s part of the experience. Highly recommended.
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.
Chinatown Hotel Chicago
Staying at Chinatown Hotel Chicago was an absolute delight! The room features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light—every morning felt like a fresh start. What stood out most was the excellent air circulation; even on warmer days, the room stayed refreshingly cool without relying heavily on the AC. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great local eateries, making it perfect for exploring the vibrant neighborhood. Clean, well-designed rooms with thoughtful touches make this hotel a hidden gem in Chicago. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a true local vibe, this place is a must-try.
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 Buckingham Hotel
Staying at The Buckingham Hotel in Chicago was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond—warm, friendly, and incredibly helpful right from the moment we arrived. I booked a room with an amazing view, and it did not disappoint—the skyline stretched out before me, especially breathtaking at night when the city lights came on. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, from the cozy furnishings to the quiet, well-maintained hallways. What really stood out was how accommodating the team was—they anticipated needs without being intrusive and made sure every request was handled with a smile. If I could rate this hotel 10 stars instead of 5, I absolutely would. This isn’t just a great place to stay—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll be back, and I highly 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.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North
We had an absolutely wonderful stay at this hotel with our entire family—five siblings and our kids celebrating a special anniversary. The suites were perfect for us: spacious, well-designed, and ideal for families. The mezzanine level was large, clean, and safe—our children could move around freely without any worries. Breakfast was outstanding—fresh, delicious, and offered something for everyone. We all enjoyed a relaxed meal together, which made the celebration even more memorable. The staff went above and beyond with their kindness and hospitality. They truly stood out as some of the friendliest we’ve encountered in any hotel. From check-in to checkout, every interaction felt genuine and welcoming. This place is not just comfortable—it’s a true home away from home. We’ll definitely be returning.
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