Citizenm Chicago Downtown

“Great Stay for a Great Value, in the Middle of Everything Chicago has to offer!”

I'd heard good things about the CitizenM but hadn't stayed in one. So, when I got the chance to visit Chicago for 4 nights over Christmas, I finally did it. And I'm glad I did! To start with, the CitizenM Chicago Downtown is in an excellent location. It's in The Loop, but right across the river fr… lisää

I'd heard good things about the CitizenM but hadn't stayed in one. So, when I got the chance to visit Chicago for 4 nights over Christmas, I finally did it. And I'm glad I did! To start with, the CitizenM Chicago Downtown is in an excellent location. It's in The Loop, but right across the river from the River North area, which has lots of shopping, restaurants, bars, etc. Millennium Park, location of "The Cloud Gate" (or "Bean") is only a few blocks away. The CTA buses and 'L' train stops are very close by, allowing for quick access to other parts of the city. There's a reason that most times I come to Chicago, I stay in this area! The main lobby, on the 4th floor (don't worry, there are elevators), is a really cozy space. There were always guests hanging out on the couches, or at various tables, or at the bar. Often with a laptop and a coffee or bite to eat. Even the front desk doesn't feel very "business." It reminds me a bit of the Apple Store, that level of casual. It wasn't unusual to see guests basically in their pajamas lounging around a bit on the 4th floor. But it makes sense. Because these rooms are SUPER small! Having stayed at many hotels in this area in Chicago, I know the standard rooms are always smaller than what you might find out in the suburbs. It's not a big problem if you're a solo traveler like me, but if you come with a spouse or significant other or friend, you're going to be walking on top of each other in your hotel room! That said, the rooms are pretty cozy, clean, and inviting, as well. I spent a lot of time in my room and enjoyed it. The bed is quite large. A little on the firmer side, but I got plenty of good sleep, regardless. There's a small desk and chair where I had my laptop or would eat. While there were light switches about, I mainly controlled everything via the iPad in the room: Light levels, light colors, the TV, temperature controls, the sheer windows shade and even blackout shades, etc. Super easy to use. The bathroom (water closet), as well, is very tiny. The sink is outside the bathroom. If you were in the shower, while your SO was using the toilet...I don't think you'd be able to get out of the shower until they finish their business. It's THAT tiny (but the shower itself is spacious enough). As far as storage, I thought there was enough. There's a very large and deep drawer underneath the bed that I used. There's also another drawer under the bed with a pretty large safe to keep your valuable secured. By the door to the unit, you can hang some clothes or jackets. The sink area has some little shelves to keep your toiletries and other stuff. Again, for a solo traveler, I think it's enough space. But I could see for couples, it might get tight. It's definitely something to be aware of if you're not the lightest traveler. One thing to consider is noise level. Not from other guests necessarily, but from the streets. This is a very busy area in the heart of Chicago's main tourist area. You will definitely hear a lot of emergency vehicle sirens and other vehicles from outside. Even if you're on the 11th and 14th floors like I was (I stayed in two different rooms because I had to extend my stay unexpectedly!). Including late at night when some drivers like to peel out and do burnouts on the streets. In my first room, my window faced E Wacker Place, which was a little quieter (but still loud at times). But my second room faced Michigan Ave, and it was far louder. If you're light sleeper, you might consider bringing ear plugs or something. It seemed like having the blackout shade completely down helped a little. Anyway, as far as amenities, there is a gym that I did not use, but I peeked at it. It looked nice. Back in the lobby, they do serve hot food, like a breakfast buffet and other things throughout the day, but keep in mind it's not free. But honestly, you're in the middle of everything in Chicago -- go find a local restaurant! The bar is fully stocked, so if you need a nightcap or something, just wander downstairs and they'll hook you up. The one weird thing, to me, was coffee. They have a coffee bar in the lobby, but it seemed like they were charging for just simple brewed coffee. I will say most mornings, the staff were kind enough not to charge for the brewed coffee. But on my last day, I did have to pay. I didn't want to say anything or cause a ruckus, so I politely paid, but I think that's weird. Most hotel rooms elsewhere have coffee makers in the room. But not here, which is fine. But then most hotels will typically have free brewed coffee down in the lobby. I could see charging for a latte or espresso, but again, not brewed coffee. It comes off as cheap. And even though the value here is great (I got an excellent, excellent rate directly through Marriott), the CitizenM does a great job and not making it feel cheap. And that goes go a long way. Either way, I really enjoyed my time at the CitizenM Chicago Downtown! Again, it's great for solo travelers, which is what I usually am. I would definitely stay here again next time I'm in Chicago. Which I hope is soon!

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