We enjoyed our stay at this hotel, the staff were excellent. However, after we left the hotel we were charged $100.00 without explanation.

When asked what it was for, we were told it was for room damage.

I know 100% that we did not damage anything in the room but the hotel would not listen and would not refund us.

So beware, if you do stay ...

We stayed at the Essex one night while in Chicago to see the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum and Hancock Observatory. The hotel rooms are currently under remodeling. We were told our given a new room. Hopefully the remodel will not impact the room rates because the remodel was not impressive. The bathroom door did not close, the sink drain did not ...

We stayed here about a week ago....I dont suggest it. The price of $69 a night was great but thats about what its worth (if there was free parking!) If you plan on never being in your room this is the place. If you want to relax or sleep at all go elsewhere. Its worth paying an extra $60 or so a night. Trust me. I was looking at some of the reviews ...

If you are looking for polished and shining keep looking. Essex has a great location for the south loop area. The hotel is clean. The service gets the job done, but not over friendly. Great view of Grant Park and Lake Michigan. Pool area has a wonderful view and is clean. Has lifegaurd on duty. I will stay here again and recommend it to friends and family on a budget. Essex, polish the service and place up and you get 5 stars.

This hotel is close to so many great Chicago museums, eateries, attractions and shopping etc. The hotel was clean and the staff were great. We can't wait to go back.

Loved the location, the service, the pool and exercise facility, and the free shuttle.
Rooms were clean and comfy. Everyone at the hotel went out of their way to make our visit enjoyable. And it is significantly less expensive than the competition. We really enjoyed our stay at the Essex Inn.

The service from the staff.Door man & shuttle bus driver and front desk clerk are wonderful.The location near the park doing the taste of chicago.

We stayed here on our wedding night. We had a beautiful suite facing the park. We booked our wedding guest rooms here as well. Everyone thought the place was great--clean, affordable, and awesome location. The pool and terrace next to it are a neat plus.

We stayed at the essex inn and it was great. while the room was outdated it was clean, comfortable and the staff was great. We didn't experience any problems with the drains and the room was in pretty good condition considering the age of the hotel. I would definitely refer a friend or family to stay at the Essex Inn when they are in Chicago.