HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON CHICAGO DOWNTOWN
40 E. Grand Ave., 312-644-2222,
Rates: Start at $239 per night for a one-bedroom suite with a king bed, sleeper sofa and full-size kitchen. Look for online deals. Parking $35 per night.
Stay here if you’re: A family with two or fewer kids who won’t mind bunking on the comfy sofa, a business traveler looking for extra maneuvering room, a couple with space issues who want to save some money by toasting bagels in the morning or reheating leftovers.
It’s close to: The “Magnificent Mile” at North Michigan Avenue, River North/North Bridge, the Theater District and the Loop Business District. The Merchandise Mart is a five-minute walk, and a free Navy Pier shuttle and Redline Train are one block away.
The rooms are: Spacious suites, with full-size kitchens that have everything but the food. King beds or two doubles are available as well as studios; the other room offers a second TV, sleeper sofa and desk. Free high-speed Internet.
They put all of the money into: A recent remodel, which upgraded the rooms a bit and made them look less 1980s.
The bottom line: I’m always ready for the chains to let me down, but this one is a winner. The staff is courteous and goes out of its way to be helpful. A hot breakfast is included, and depending on the online deal you get, sometimes a light dinner is, as well. You get cookies and free bottled water too.
