Hotel Filters
3-Star Hotels Near Wildlife Viewing Platform
Ray's Bucktown Bed and Breakfast
Holiday Inn Chicago Dwtn - the Mart
Courtyard Chicago Downtown/River North
The Robey, Chicago, a Member of Design Hotels
Villa d' Citta
Aloft Chicago Mag Mile
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Residence Inn Chicago Downtown/Loop
Roscoe Village Guesthouse
Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago West Loop Fulton Market Area
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
Acme Hotel Company Chicago
Hilton Chicago Magnificent Mile Suites
Old Town Suites Operated by Roscoe Village Guesthouse
Hyatt Place Chicago/Wicker Park
Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago River North
Residence Inn Chicago Downtown/River North
Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Magnolia Studios
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Chicago Magnificent Mile
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Wildlife Viewing Platform
The Drake Hotel Chicago features a forest and lake motif throughout its design, with rooms adorned in natural wood finishes, moss-green walls, and organic art pieces that evoke the surrounding wetlands. Located just 1.3 km from the platform, it’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers. Its rooftop Sky Lounge offers panoramic views of the lake and city skyline—ideal for unwinding after a day of wildlife observation
Yes, The Peninsula Chicago provides curated eco-guided tour bookings via its concierge team, partnering with certified conservation groups to lead visitors through the Wetland Reserve surrounding the Wildlife Viewing Platform. Guests can observe migratory birds, herons, and ducks up close. The hotel also offers free binocular rentals and field guide booklets, enhancing your on-site exploration experience
Kimpton Hotel Palomar Chicago’s Lakeside Balcony Suites are ideal for photography enthusiasts, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls and private terraces offering framed views of the Wildlife Viewing Platform and distant city skyline. The room design blends modern industrial style with natural textures, complemented by reflective art installations and **living green walls—perfect for both daytime and golden-hour shots
Take the CTA Green Line from the nearby Michigan Avenue Station, just a 10-minute ride from the platform. Stay at Hyatt Regency Chicago, which connects directly to the subway entrance via an indoor walkway, avoiding weather delays. The hotel also offers complimentary luggage storage and city shuttle service, making transit between nature and urban attractions seamless and efficient
The Langham Chicago boasts a dedicated family garden terrace with interactive water features and shaded seating, perfect for children exploring nature. Located just 1.5 km from the platform, it offers kids’ activity kits and family-friendly check-in perks. The hotel’s 24/7 concierge can arrange guided wildlife walks and provide maps of safe, accessible trails for young explorers
The Peninsula Chicago stands out with its exclusive eco-experience packages, including priority HopeGoo for guided wetland tours, custom-designed field notebooks, and in-room nature soundscapes that mimic local bird calls. Located within walking distance, it combines luxury with environmental awareness—ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and meaningful connection to the outdoors
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Wildlife Viewing Platform
Ray's Bucktown Bed and Breakfast
This place was once Ray's professional photography studio, and as a fellow photographer, I really appreciated the connection. Talking with Ray about birds and his travels was one of the highlights of my stay. The indoor parking was a huge plus—no more worrying about weather or finding a spot. Breakfasts were generous and delicious, and the staff went out of their way to explain all the amenities in the building. There are plenty of fun games for kids, making it a great choice if you're traveling with family. The whole experience felt warm and personal—like staying at a friend’s home. I loved every moment, and I’d definitely come back whenever I visit Chicago again.
Holiday Inn Chicago Dwtn - the Mart
Arrived late at night only to be told there was no room available despite having booked two months in advance. The manager mentioned they tried contacting me during the day, but I never received any call. After some back-and-forth, I was offered a single-bed room instead of the twin-bed one I originally reserved — not ideal, especially after such a long wait. However, after discussing with the platform, I was able to get the first night’s stay waived as compensation. Overall, the hotel’s location is excellent — right in the heart of Magnificent Mile, walking distance to shopping, dining, and attractions. The lounge on the 15th floor is a nice spot to unwind with drinks or a light meal. The room itself is spacious, the bed is comfortable, and the bathtub makes for a relaxing end to the day. Despite the initial check-in hiccup, the staff were polite and responsive. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for convenience and a good base in downtown Chicago.
Courtyard Chicago Downtown/River North
Staying at the Courtyard Chicago Downtown/River North was an absolutely delightful experience. The hotel facilities are top-notch, clean, and well-maintained, with a modern touch that makes you feel right at home. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and always ready to help. We were a group of three sharing one room, and there was plenty of space; no feeling of crowding at all. The bed was super comfortable, and we slept like babies. Location-wise, it's unbeatable—just steps away from restaurants, shops, and public transit. Getting around downtown Chicago was a breeze. For the price, this is a fantastic value, and I’d definitely book here again on my next trip to Chicago. Highly recommend!
The Robey, Chicago, a Member of Design Hotels
We had an amazing time staying at The Robey in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. The area has such a relaxed, cool vibe with tons of great shops and cafes nearby. From the moment you step inside, the hotel impresses—both the exterior and interior design are absolutely stunning. It’s stylish, charming, and packed with unique spaces: a rooftop bar, a retro '90s-inspired lounge on the second floor (where you get a free cocktail!), and multiple dining options. We loved both bars—the atmosphere was electric and the drinks were top-notch. Our queen-size room was cozy and well-appointed, though a bit tight for two adults with four suitcases. That said, everything was spotless, towels were changed daily, and the minibar was always stocked. The $25 daily fee covers all beverages, gym access, and pool use—so really, you’re getting value without extra charges. Just be aware: this fee wasn’t clear during booking, so the total price felt higher than expected. Still, it’s totally worth it. The vibe here is one-of-a-kind, service is flawless, and even the bathroom amenities are from Le Labo—yes, that’s a big win. If you're visiting Chicago, don’t miss The Robey. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience.
Villa d' Citta
Absolutely fantastic stay at Villa d'Citta! The location is perfect—nestled in a charming neighborhood of Chicago, just a short walk or transit ride from the city’s main attractions. While parking nearby can be tricky, we found a spot after a bit of patience, and overall, we were lucky to stay close to the hotel. The building itself is beautifully designed with a rustic-chic aesthetic that feels both warm and sophisticated. When we first arrived, we were surprised not to find a private bathroom inside our room—but upon contacting the host, we learned it was actually located on the hallway level, spacious and clean. The room itself was cozy and comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Breakfast was outstanding—freshly prepared each morning with homemade pastries, fresh fruit, coffee, and more. It felt like a personal touch, not just a standard offering. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully curated. Highly recommend Villa d'Citta for travelers who value charm, comfort, and authenticity in their Chicago experience.
Aloft Chicago Mag Mile
Staying at the Aloft Chicago Mag Mile was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—everything is within walking distance, from shopping and dining to iconic attractions. I loved how vibrant and modern the hotel feels, with a cool, energetic vibe that makes it perfect for both business and leisure travelers. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the room was clean, spacious, and well-equipped. With so many restaurants and cafes right outside the door, I never had to go far for a good meal. Highly recommend this spot for anyone visiting Chicago—it’s a true gem in the heart of the city.
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile was an absolute delight, especially for someone who loves walking. The location is unbeatable—everything I wanted to see, from the Magnificent Mile to Millennium Park, was within a 3-kilometer radius and easily reachable on foot. That’s a dream for a walking enthusiast like me. Right across the street is a massive supermarket with everything you could need—groceries, snacks, toiletries—and it stays open until well past 11 PM, which is perfect for late-night essentials. On the ground floor, there’s an UNO’s Pizza that’s always packed, open until 11 PM too, and just a short 3-minute walk away is a fantastic seafood restaurant—delicious food, though a bit pricey, but totally worth it. The Red Line subway is literally right outside the hotel entrance, making travel to Midway Airport super convenient. Just transfer once to the Orange Line, then walk five minutes—entirely indoors, so no worries about rain or bad weather. The room itself was spacious, clean, and modernly decorated, typical of U.S. hotels where space isn’t an issue like in Southeast Asia. Room amenities were excellent: coffee maker, safe, mini-fridge (though keep in mind it only makes ice—my milk and yogurt froze solid! 😂), microwave, and even a full ironing board. I took advantage of that to press all my clothes before heading home—huge plus. Housekeeping comes every other day, which is standard, but any request via phone gets handled quickly. The only thing to note: if you’re sensitive to noise, bring earplugs—there are occasional late-night sirens from patrol cars, but nothing disruptive. Overall, this hotel delivers incredible value, great convenience, and a comfortable stay in the heart of downtown Chicago. If I ever return to the city, I’d absolutely book here again.
Residence Inn Chicago Downtown/Loop
The location is absolutely unbeatable—right next to a bus stop, making it super easy to get to the theater for a show of Les Misérables in just five minutes. The room comes with a small kitchenette, so cooking your own meals is convenient and cost-effective. Breakfast is solid—fresh, varied, and satisfying. Parking is a bit pricey, but considering the central Chicago location and how hard it is to find parking downtown, it’s totally worth it. I’ve already planned my next trip here—this place offers comfort, convenience, and great value. Definitely a top pick if you’re visiting the Loop area.
Roscoe Village Guesthouse
We recently spent five wonderful days in Chicago with our family of four, and Rosco Village Guest House was the perfect choice for us. The apartment was spotless, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen—perfect for cooking meals together and making our stay feel like home. The neighborhood itself is charming and walkable, with restaurants, cafes, and local shops just steps away. We loved being able to explore on foot without needing to rely on transportation. Special shoutout to Stephanie—the host was incredibly warm, attentive, and always quick to respond. Her hospitality made a big difference in how enjoyable our trip felt. If you're looking for a comfortable, well-located place to stay in Chicago, this is definitely one to consider.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago West Loop Fulton Market Area
This place exceeded all my expectations! The location is perfect—right in the heart of Fulton Market, with easy access to downtown Chicago via public transit. The rooms are spacious, spotlessly clean, and thoughtfully designed with modern amenities that make you feel right at home. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I booked, but I’d stay here again in a heartbeat. From the welcoming staff to the quiet, comfortable atmosphere, every detail feels intentional. It’s rare to find such a great balance between comfort, convenience, and value. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Chicago—this is definitely a top choice.
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
Staying at this hotel was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The vibe is effortlessly cool—modern, sleek, and full of personality. Right in the heart of River North, it’s just steps away from great restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. The room was clean, stylish, and super comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a perfect night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. I especially loved how quiet the rooms were despite being in such a lively neighborhood. It’s rare to find such a chic, well-located place with excellent service. Definitely coming back next time I’m in Chicago.
Acme Hotel Company Chicago
The front desk team absolutely nailed it—professional, friendly, and genuinely helpful. They went above and beyond with local recommendations and took the time to chat, making us feel welcome and well-informed. Their attention to detail and warm hospitality made a real difference in our stay. It’s clear they care about guest experience, and that shows in every interaction. Definitely a standout highlight of our trip to Chicago.
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