Essex Inn

A very nice modern hotel with good size rooms which were very clean and comfortable. Facilities were very good, with an indoor pool. only there for two nightsbut wished it could have been more. The bar/ restaurant was very friendly, although the food wasn't anything special. Need to go further afield if you want a good meal. Close

I was worried when I had read some older reviews about this hotel. For the price I paid (under $100 per night!) It seemed too good to be true (or scary) when I booked it. The only other choice even close to the price was a best western, which was also concerning. But even though the outside of the hotel is a little dated, the lobby and rooms were very recently updated and comfortable. The room was not huge, but not small either. The bed was unbelieveably comfy and had nice linens instead of a nasty hotel bedspread. There was a flat screen tv, a mini fridge and a coffee maker. The ony things to note was there is either heat or AC depending on what system is on for the entire hotel, so one night we opened our window at night and closed it in the morning when it cooled down. Also the bathroom sink, although it had a nice big granite top, the basin is strangely small. This hotel was only a $5-$7cab ride to the museum, shedd aquarium and soldier field. The room rate was charged correctly and I wasn't even asked for my AAA card to get the discounted rate. If you are looking for a hilton, there is one right next door, but it is a nice respectable hotel and I was glad I rolled the dice. The best breakfast is at Yolks which 2 block south on Michigan. Close

Very POOR customer service!!!! Besides refusing to honor a confired, in writting, reservation front desk told my wife that a Walgreens drug store was just 3 blocks up Michigan Ave. It was 3/4 of a mile!! With 2 small children, it was a great hardship on our whole family. We woudn't stay there again, even if it was free. Close

The Essex is in a great location overlooking Grant Park and the Lake and within walking distance to Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum etc. Not far away either is city center, magnificent mile etc. Public transport options are quite close as well. The hotel itself is clean and tidy, albeit not overly attractive. The room was quite small overall however the fittings and furniture were new and quite nice. Hotel amenities weren't too bad with onsite pool and restaurant. Service from staff wasn't outstanding but they were polite and willing to help. Overall, good value hotel in a good location. Close

Helpful staff. Handy for all transport. Within walking distance of main locations. Overhead trains on the loop can be a bit noisy at night. Small point: Do they need to charge $1-50 to mind your bags for a few hours after check-out, whiler you kill time, before going to the airport ! Close