HOLIDAY INN & SUITES CHICAGO-DOWNTOWN BY IHG, Chicago

The hotel sits on the southern edge of downtown Chicago, a 10-minute walk from Willis Tower and within 2 km of Grant Park and the University of Illinois Chicago campus. The Blue Line 'Clinton' station is just a block away, linking directly to O'Hare airport and the Loop. Union Station is close enough for a short walk with luggage. The immediate area feels more concrete and highway-adjacent than the central business district, but the neighbourhood is generally safe and walkable during the day. For evening dining you'll want to walk a few blocks to Greektown or the restaurants around UIC - a Himalayan/Indian restaurant is next door. If arriving by car, expect to navigate ongoing construction and detours near the hotel entrance.

Room options range from standard guest rooms with 1 or 2 queen beds to one-bedroom suites with a separate seating area and kitchenette. Rooms are carpeted, air-conditioned, and include ironing facilities, an AM/FM alarm clock, and free toiletries. Many rooms face the highway or construction sites, so light sleepers may want to request a room on a higher floor or away from the expressway. Bathrooms are notably small, with low water pressure and occasional temperature fluctuations reported - the shower floor can be slippery. Suites provide more space and a microwave, but seating furniture can be firm. Road-facing rooms can experience traffic noise, while rooms near the lift may hear hallway activity. The overall condition is adequate but dated; some wear is visible. Bedding is generally comfortable, and blackout shades help with sleep.

The on-site restaurant is closed for renovations, but breakfast is still served in a temporary area daily from 6:00am to 10:00am. The meal is a standard American buffet-style breakfast with hot items such as bacon and eggs, though quality can be inconsistent. Guests can pay at the hotel or book a Bed and Breakfast package in advance for better value. There is no restaurant or bar for dinner service; a small lobby snack bar sells drinks, snacks, ice cream, beer, and wine. If you are staying in a suite with a kitchenette, cooking your own meals is an option. Several restaurants - including Lou Mitchell's, Potbelly Sandwich Works, and a Himalayan/Indian place - are within a short walk.

The outdoor pool is open daily from 8:00am to 8:00pm, weather permitting, generally from late spring through Labor Day weekend. The pool is on the rooftop and offers views of the Willis Tower and the Chicago skyline - a notable feature for a downtown hotel. Pool/beach towels and sun loungers are provided. The fitness centre is free of charge and equipped with modern exercise machines. There is no spa, sauna, hot tub, or indoor pool on site, making the leisure options best suited for warmer months.

Wi-Fi is free in all areas. The 24-hour front desk offers express check-in/check-out and an ATM/cash machine. Luggage storage is available free of charge, useful for early arrivals or late departures. Daily housekeeping is included, and laundry service is offered for an additional charge. Meeting and banquet facilities can be booked for an extra fee. The hotel features a lift, wheelchair-accessible rooms with features such as lower sinks and raised toilets, and visual aids including Braille and tactile signs. Key card access, fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms are in place for security. Pets are not allowed. A business centre is free to use. Note that the parking deck costs US$65 per night with in-and-out privileges, but reservation is not possible - it's first-come, first-served. A cheaper city lot next door (US$30/night) is available but not hotel-operated.