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There are no environmental reviews at this time. You can help empower the public to choose Green! If you have stayed at Chicago`s Essex Inn recently please add a Green Review General Property Reviews Expand Listings click on happyface icon or review title to expand, click again to contract. Jan-2008 - Good Loop value

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Average
On-Site Dining:	Good
Facility Quality:	Excellent
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Excellent

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by John F. of Louisville, KY USA on Feb-2008 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2008 This hotel was economical and centrally-located, and it will be much nicer later in the year when renovations are finished. Nice pool and fitness area and helpful desk staff. Maid service inconsistent.
Pros:	location
Cons:	maid service
Recommended For:	Families Business Seniors Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Shawn M. of O' Fallon of MO on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jul-2007 Just an FYI you must stay a min. of 2 days. We searched for a few different days and finally decided on this hotel and called to make the reservation and they wanting to force us to book more than one night. Eventhough it says nothing about it on the web.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	guest services
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris S. of on Jun-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I took my band students to Chicago and we stayed at the Essex for 3 nights. I would highly recommend the Essex for any groups. The price was very reasonable for the area and we were within walking distance of the museums and close to bus stops that took us anywhere we wanted to go. The staff went above and beyond with all their help. Even a reservation problem due solely to my mistake was handled with great concern and speed. I would HIGHLY recommend the Essex for student groups.
Pros:	The friendly and helpful staff
Cons:	rooms are on the small side, but very clean
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Meg C. of South St Paul of MN United States on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 We had read reviews prior to our stay and were quite surprised that this hotel was much nicer than expected. The room was clean and nicely sized. The staff was very friendly. Good location - shuttle service was great! The attatched restaurant, although not affiliated except by rental agreement, was good. Wonderful breakfast and friendly service. Would definitely stay here again.
Pros:	cleanliness
Cons:	plumbing
Recommended For:	Honeymoon/Romance Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Candy H. of New York of NY United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 It locates in the areas with many sightseeing places and within walking distance. Even you want to take L or bus, it's very near and convenient but it takes long time to wait and runs very slow. Don't waste your time on it. The room is clean and cosy. I especially loved the king size bed which gave me very good sleep. My husband mentioned that it's very good to have free internet access. I didn't like the attitude of the staff. They rarely had smile and impatiently answered my questions.
Pros:	Good location
Cons:	attitude of staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen S. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 This hotel had a great location and I appreciated the hotel shuttle to the shopping district. However, there is no room service. They had the heat on all weekend even though it was quite warm out. They really need to clean the place up...the elevators are creaky and dirty. The decor is outdated and the beds were small and uncomfortable. The restaurant is okay - we ate there for breakfast once. I would only stay here again if I got a really great rate but I'd be prepared to rough it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything else
Recommended For:	Families Students Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brenda H. of MI United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 We were on a budget and this was the place. We spent little time in the room so we weren't looking for anything more than cleanliness and comfort. We were in walking distance to the museums and down town shopping. If you wanted expensive shopping they have a free shuttle service to the Magnificent Mile. We did have to take a cab though in the evening, because the shuttle only runs to 4p.m. and we had to try Uno's for dinner, It was more than worth the cab fare. Many cafes close by for cheaper breakfast and lunch fare. I would do it all over again. The staff was nice and helpful.
Pros:	location
Cons:	decor
Recommended For:	Families Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris M. of on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Should have room service in the hotel 24/7, resturants could be open till 11:30pm
Pros:	in down town
Cons:	Yes
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Jul-2007 - Online booking

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Shawn M. of O' Fallon of MO on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jul-2007 Just an FYI you must stay a min. of 2 days. We searched for a few different days and finally decided on this hotel and called to make the reservation and they wanting to force us to book more than one night. Eventhough it says nothing about it on the web.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	guest services
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris S. of on Jun-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I took my band students to Chicago and we stayed at the Essex for 3 nights. I would highly recommend the Essex for any groups. The price was very reasonable for the area and we were within walking distance of the museums and close to bus stops that took us anywhere we wanted to go. The staff went above and beyond with all their help. Even a reservation problem due solely to my mistake was handled with great concern and speed. I would HIGHLY recommend the Essex for student groups.
Pros:	The friendly and helpful staff
Cons:	rooms are on the small side, but very clean
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Meg C. of South St Paul of MN United States on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 We had read reviews prior to our stay and were quite surprised that this hotel was much nicer than expected. The room was clean and nicely sized. The staff was very friendly. Good location - shuttle service was great! The attatched restaurant, although not affiliated except by rental agreement, was good. Wonderful breakfast and friendly service. Would definitely stay here again.
Pros:	cleanliness
Cons:	plumbing
Recommended For:	Honeymoon/Romance Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Candy H. of New York of NY United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 It locates in the areas with many sightseeing places and within walking distance. Even you want to take L or bus, it's very near and convenient but it takes long time to wait and runs very slow. Don't waste your time on it. The room is clean and cosy. I especially loved the king size bed which gave me very good sleep. My husband mentioned that it's very good to have free internet access. I didn't like the attitude of the staff. They rarely had smile and impatiently answered my questions.
Pros:	Good location
Cons:	attitude of staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen S. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 This hotel had a great location and I appreciated the hotel shuttle to the shopping district. However, there is no room service. They had the heat on all weekend even though it was quite warm out. They really need to clean the place up...the elevators are creaky and dirty. The decor is outdated and the beds were small and uncomfortable. The restaurant is okay - we ate there for breakfast once. I would only stay here again if I got a really great rate but I'd be prepared to rough it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything else
Recommended For:	Families Students Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brenda H. of MI United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 We were on a budget and this was the place. We spent little time in the room so we weren't looking for anything more than cleanliness and comfort. We were in walking distance to the museums and down town shopping. If you wanted expensive shopping they have a free shuttle service to the Magnificent Mile. We did have to take a cab though in the evening, because the shuttle only runs to 4p.m. and we had to try Uno's for dinner, It was more than worth the cab fare. Many cafes close by for cheaper breakfast and lunch fare. I would do it all over again. The staff was nice and helpful.
Pros:	location
Cons:	decor
Recommended For:	Families Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris M. of on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Should have room service in the hotel 24/7, resturants could be open till 11:30pm
Pros:	in down town
Cons:	Yes
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

May-2007 - great for student group travel

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Good
On-Site Dining:	Good
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Excellent

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris S. of on Jun-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I took my band students to Chicago and we stayed at the Essex for 3 nights. I would highly recommend the Essex for any groups. The price was very reasonable for the area and we were within walking distance of the museums and close to bus stops that took us anywhere we wanted to go. The staff went above and beyond with all their help. Even a reservation problem due solely to my mistake was handled with great concern and speed. I would HIGHLY recommend the Essex for student groups.
Pros:	The friendly and helpful staff
Cons:	rooms are on the small side, but very clean
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Meg C. of South St Paul of MN United States on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 We had read reviews prior to our stay and were quite surprised that this hotel was much nicer than expected. The room was clean and nicely sized. The staff was very friendly. Good location - shuttle service was great! The attatched restaurant, although not affiliated except by rental agreement, was good. Wonderful breakfast and friendly service. Would definitely stay here again.
Pros:	cleanliness
Cons:	plumbing
Recommended For:	Honeymoon/Romance Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Candy H. of New York of NY United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 It locates in the areas with many sightseeing places and within walking distance. Even you want to take L or bus, it's very near and convenient but it takes long time to wait and runs very slow. Don't waste your time on it. The room is clean and cosy. I especially loved the king size bed which gave me very good sleep. My husband mentioned that it's very good to have free internet access. I didn't like the attitude of the staff. They rarely had smile and impatiently answered my questions.
Pros:	Good location
Cons:	attitude of staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen S. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 This hotel had a great location and I appreciated the hotel shuttle to the shopping district. However, there is no room service. They had the heat on all weekend even though it was quite warm out. They really need to clean the place up...the elevators are creaky and dirty. The decor is outdated and the beds were small and uncomfortable. The restaurant is okay - we ate there for breakfast once. I would only stay here again if I got a really great rate but I'd be prepared to rough it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything else
Recommended For:	Families Students Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brenda H. of MI United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 We were on a budget and this was the place. We spent little time in the room so we weren't looking for anything more than cleanliness and comfort. We were in walking distance to the museums and down town shopping. If you wanted expensive shopping they have a free shuttle service to the Magnificent Mile. We did have to take a cab though in the evening, because the shuttle only runs to 4p.m. and we had to try Uno's for dinner, It was more than worth the cab fare. Many cafes close by for cheaper breakfast and lunch fare. I would do it all over again. The staff was nice and helpful.
Pros:	location
Cons:	decor
Recommended For:	Families Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris M. of on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Should have room service in the hotel 24/7, resturants could be open till 11:30pm
Pros:	in down town
Cons:	Yes
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

May-2007 - Nice place to stay

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Average
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Good

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Meg C. of South St Paul of MN United States on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 We had read reviews prior to our stay and were quite surprised that this hotel was much nicer than expected. The room was clean and nicely sized. The staff was very friendly. Good location - shuttle service was great! The attatched restaurant, although not affiliated except by rental agreement, was good. Wonderful breakfast and friendly service. Would definitely stay here again.
Pros:	cleanliness
Cons:	plumbing
Recommended For:	Honeymoon/Romance Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Candy H. of New York of NY United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 It locates in the areas with many sightseeing places and within walking distance. Even you want to take L or bus, it's very near and convenient but it takes long time to wait and runs very slow. Don't waste your time on it. The room is clean and cosy. I especially loved the king size bed which gave me very good sleep. My husband mentioned that it's very good to have free internet access. I didn't like the attitude of the staff. They rarely had smile and impatiently answered my questions.
Pros:	Good location
Cons:	attitude of staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen S. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 This hotel had a great location and I appreciated the hotel shuttle to the shopping district. However, there is no room service. They had the heat on all weekend even though it was quite warm out. They really need to clean the place up...the elevators are creaky and dirty. The decor is outdated and the beds were small and uncomfortable. The restaurant is okay - we ate there for breakfast once. I would only stay here again if I got a really great rate but I'd be prepared to rough it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything else
Recommended For:	Families Students Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brenda H. of MI United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 We were on a budget and this was the place. We spent little time in the room so we weren't looking for anything more than cleanliness and comfort. We were in walking distance to the museums and down town shopping. If you wanted expensive shopping they have a free shuttle service to the Magnificent Mile. We did have to take a cab though in the evening, because the shuttle only runs to 4p.m. and we had to try Uno's for dinner, It was more than worth the cab fare. Many cafes close by for cheaper breakfast and lunch fare. I would do it all over again. The staff was nice and helpful.
Pros:	location
Cons:	decor
Recommended For:	Families Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris M. of on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Should have room service in the hotel 24/7, resturants could be open till 11:30pm
Pros:	in down town
Cons:	Yes
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Apr-2007 - will come again

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Candy H. of New York of NY United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 It locates in the areas with many sightseeing places and within walking distance. Even you want to take L or bus, it's very near and convenient but it takes long time to wait and runs very slow. Don't waste your time on it. The room is clean and cosy. I especially loved the king size bed which gave me very good sleep. My husband mentioned that it's very good to have free internet access. I didn't like the attitude of the staff. They rarely had smile and impatiently answered my questions.
Pros:	Good location
Cons:	attitude of staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen S. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 This hotel had a great location and I appreciated the hotel shuttle to the shopping district. However, there is no room service. They had the heat on all weekend even though it was quite warm out. They really need to clean the place up...the elevators are creaky and dirty. The decor is outdated and the beds were small and uncomfortable. The restaurant is okay - we ate there for breakfast once. I would only stay here again if I got a really great rate but I'd be prepared to rough it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything else
Recommended For:	Families Students Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brenda H. of MI United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 We were on a budget and this was the place. We spent little time in the room so we weren't looking for anything more than cleanliness and comfort. We were in walking distance to the museums and down town shopping. If you wanted expensive shopping they have a free shuttle service to the Magnificent Mile. We did have to take a cab though in the evening, because the shuttle only runs to 4p.m. and we had to try Uno's for dinner, It was more than worth the cab fare. Many cafes close by for cheaper breakfast and lunch fare. I would do it all over again. The staff was nice and helpful.
Pros:	location
Cons:	decor
Recommended For:	Families Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris M. of on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Should have room service in the hotel 24/7, resturants could be open till 11:30pm
Pros:	in down town
Cons:	Yes
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Apr-2007 - Tolerable

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Bad
On-Site Dining:	Average
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Bad

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen S. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 This hotel had a great location and I appreciated the hotel shuttle to the shopping district. However, there is no room service. They had the heat on all weekend even though it was quite warm out. They really need to clean the place up...the elevators are creaky and dirty. The decor is outdated and the beds were small and uncomfortable. The restaurant is okay - we ate there for breakfast once. I would only stay here again if I got a really great rate but I'd be prepared to rough it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything else
Recommended For:	Families Students Seniors Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brenda H. of MI United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 We were on a budget and this was the place. We spent little time in the room so we weren't looking for anything more than cleanliness and comfort. We were in walking distance to the museums and down town shopping. If you wanted expensive shopping they have a free shuttle service to the Magnificent Mile. We did have to take a cab though in the evening, because the shuttle only runs to 4p.m. and we had to try Uno's for dinner, It was more than worth the cab fare. Many cafes close by for cheaper breakfast and lunch fare. I would do it all over again. The staff was nice and helpful.
Pros:	location
Cons:	decor
Recommended For:	Families Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris M. of on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Should have room service in the hotel 24/7, resturants could be open till 11:30pm
Pros:	in down town
Cons:	Yes
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Apr-2007 - cheap fun

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Good
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Good

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brenda H. of MI United States on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 We were on a budget and this was the place. We spent little time in the room so we weren't looking for anything more than cleanliness and comfort. We were in walking distance to the museums and down town shopping. If you wanted expensive shopping they have a free shuttle service to the Magnificent Mile. We did have to take a cab though in the evening, because the shuttle only runs to 4p.m. and we had to try Uno's for dinner, It was more than worth the cab fare. Many cafes close by for cheaper breakfast and lunch fare. I would do it all over again. The staff was nice and helpful.
Pros:	location
Cons:	decor
Recommended For:	Families Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris M. of on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Should have room service in the hotel 24/7, resturants could be open till 11:30pm
Pros:	in down town
Cons:	Yes
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Mar-2007 - Room Service

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Chris M. of on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Should have room service in the hotel 24/7, resturants could be open till 11:30pm
Pros:	in down town
Cons:	Yes
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Mar-2007 - I can't believe they gave us this room!

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Cory H. of Chatham of IL USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My wife and I stayed here before, and it was wonderful. This time, however, was not. They put us in a corner room, which is small. The bathroom floor and tub were in disrepair! The tiles in the bathroom floor would come off when you walked across them!
Pros:	Proximity and Price
Cons:	Room
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Mar-2007 - Only the location

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elaine M. of West Chester of OH USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Sometimes you get what you pay for. Rates are reasonable but then bathroom cleanliness,noise control and bed size are not up to par.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathrooms,thin walls and small beds
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Mar-2007 - Poor service

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Surendra J. of CA 91304 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Poor service. Not accomodating at all & discourteous.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Service
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Feb-2007 - Average

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kristen W. of Chicago of Il USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 We changed room s 3 times due to a small room, construction work and dirty bathrooms. I was not happy with the overall experience.Could use improving - Sanitation in bathrooms
Pros:
Cons:	Sanitation in bathrooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Dec-2006 - Watch the Final Bill!

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Average
On-Site Dining:	Average
Facility Quality:	Average
Activities:	Average
Entertainment:	Bad
Quality of Service:	Terrible

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dave W. of Fort Wayne of IN on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The location in Downtown Chicago is very good. The hotel is aged and cleanliness of rooms is not very good. Bathroom smelled and the exhaust fan was filthy. Watch for room rate changes at check-in! If you miss a change to the pre-negotiated rate on ANY of the nights and you initial anywhere on the document, you could be stuck with it! Management could have "shined", but chose differently.
Pros:	Staff
Cons:	Management
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Dec-2006 - Not Bad

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Average
On-Site Dining:	Average
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jamie R. of Bismarck of ND USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We stayed at the Essex for the weekend to catch a football game at Soldier Field. The location was within walking distance, which was great. The staff were helpful and the restaurant was basic but good...we mainly ate breakfast. The only negatives were that our shower drain was very slow and our room window/door faced the pool and was rather drafty with the cold December weather. We were more than satisfied for what we paid, and would stay here again.
Pros:	Location/Staff
Cons:	Shower
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Dec-2006 - Great experience

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Laura L. of IN United States on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 The Essex is an older downtown hotel in good repair. Rooms are spacious compared to other downtown hotels, but small compared to new. Bell Captain is a GREAT concierge and found all kinds of things for us. Only one complaint. The bathroom exhaust fan was in need of cleaning.
Pros:	The Service
Cons:	Cleanliness
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Dec-2006 - initial struggle

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Stacy S. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Jan-2007 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 We had to switch rooms three times to get one that was a) clean, b) had the right number of beds and c) didn't have the ceiling peeling off. This hotel needs some serious updating! We finally got a room that was adequate, but glad we double-checked our express check-out statement. They charged us for things we didn't do/have. Parking is expensive ($21 a day!) but the staff were pleasant. Don't think we'll stay there again, but it was worth it to be right on Michigan Ave and close to the Field Museum.
Pros:	location
Cons:	rooms need updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Dec-2006 - A+

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dale W. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Having stayed at other hotels in this area for the same price range the Essex was by the the best bargain. The rooms were larger compared to the others and was overall a lot cleaner. The people working there were very friendly and they even had a courtesy shuttle that ran all day. It will definitely be were I stay next time. I really have nothing negative to say about my experience there.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Dec-2006 - Essex Inn

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Amy S. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 This hotel was one of the worst I've stayed in in a long time. The room wasn't even sort of clean and there were dark rings around the shower that were pretty gross. The walls also smelled of mildew. There was music playing outside my window until 10 PM or midnight (different days). The walls were very very thin and so every other person who came down the hall and spoke woke us up. The location was great--right on Michigan Ave across from Grant Park, but that was the only good thing about it.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Cleanliness, Noise
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Dec-2006 - Hotel was inviting.

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Tom S. of Alton of IL US on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 this hotel met all of our needs. This was the first time to Chicago and the staff was great at answering our questions and helping us find the service we needed, taxis, resturants, etc..
Pros:	hotel employees
Cons:	nothing
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Dec-2006 - Essex Inn

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Mary F. of on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 Great location for the price. Had kid-friendly, tasty and reasonably-priced food in the hotel restaurant. Only 4 blocks from the Loop. Needs a little physical maintenance to the room we were in (peeling paint, water damage) and more HEAT, but otherwise excellent value for the location.
Pros:	location!
Cons:	heat, maintenance
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Nov-2006 - Good Bet

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kathryn S. of on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 Once again, we enjoyed staying at the Essex Inn through the Thanksgiving holiday. Service is good, staff quite pleasant. This is not a Hilton, but it offers a clean room, comfortable bed, and is near the CTA system. It would be a bit nicer to have courtesy continental breakfast like so many other similar hotels, but the prices in the attached restaurant are not steep! We would consider the Essex in the future
Pros:	Proximity to Center of the City
Cons:	Bathrooms need refreshing and updating.
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Nov-2006 - Reasonable

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Average
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:	Good
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Good

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Yesenia M. of Riverside of CA USA on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The location is excellent. 13 blocks from Chicago Institute of Art & 23 blocks from Navy Pier. Rooms are clean. We would relax after a day of walking. Quiet hotel, hardly noticed anyone else on our floor. Great exercise room and pool!
Pros:	location
Cons:	update decor
Recommended For:	Families Business Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Nov-2006 - A fair deal.

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by R H. of New York of NY United States on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 The Essex wasn't anything amazing or inspiring, but it was convenient for our event in Millenium Park. The staff was polite. The room was average in size for what I've experienced in large older cities (which often have small rooms). The largest downside was that staying at the Essex felt like living in 1980. It was clean and comfortable, but didn't feel "rewarding."
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Ammenities/Interior Decor
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Oct-2006 - Basic, Clean

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Judy H. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 This was a very basic hotel, although very clean. Small beds. Primitive plumbing fixtures. Cheap soaps and shampoos. 50cents apiece to hold luggage. Slight musty smell in hallways. Hotel restaurant VERY expensive!
Pros:	the closeness to where we wanted to be
Cons:	It needs to be updated and ungraded
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Oct-2006 - Highs & Lows

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Kenneth B. of St. Louis of MO USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Location was excellent; front desk people warm & friendly; bathroom a mess: black stains in bathtub; wallpaper in bad shape; unpleasant.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Oct-2006 - Essex Inn

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth S. of Indianapolis of IN United States on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 Nothing special, but much cheaper than other hotels in the general area.Check-in/checkout is poorly located and crowded.
Pros:	location
Cons:	heating/cooling system and check-in/checkout
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Oct-2006 - donl

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Donald L. of South Lyon of MI USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 I was very pleased with my stay. The staff was friendly and competent. The rooms were clean and comfortable. The location was great. I will stay there next time I go to Chicago.
Pros:
Cons:
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Oct-2006 - Very Good Hotel

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Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. M. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 The overall impression we had was very good. The location is excellent, the price was very reasonable for that location, the staff was extremely helpful, the shuttle service to shopping and museums is superb, the exercise facility and pool among the best I have seen in 30 yrs of travel...it just all added up to an excellent experience in Chicago. It is an older hotel, the restaurant plays to that with its memorabilia, but the operators have done a fine job in keeping it generally in good condition with modern touches where possible.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Bathroom upgrades
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Sep-2006 - It wasn't the best place I've stayed in

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Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Martha K. of Lawrence of MA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 The room seemed clean but the bathroom smelled mildewy. The water pressure was TERRIBLE! And I found a hair in the lotion they offered. The location was the best feature of the hotel. Even the hotel restaurant was terrible and expesive for what you got. The upside was it wasn't very expensive, but next time I'm in Chicago it would be the last place I stayed
Pros:	location
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For:

Mar-2005 - Faraway and under revovation

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Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Heather E. of Somerville of MA USA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2005 This hotel was fine for what I was in town for, an interview. However, if I was there to enjoy Chicago this hotel would not have helped me do it. It's very run down...and I understand they're doing some renovations, but the gold and green room decor made me feel a bit sick. It it's 45 minutes away from Ohare and an 8$ cab ride from anything down-town, you cannot walk.
Pros:	Price
Cons:	Upkeep
Recommended For: