Which Non-Conference Hotels in Chicago Do Fellow Cheffers Recommend?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores participants' experiences and recommendations regarding non-conference hotels in Chicago for an upcoming event. Various hotels are mentioned, along with personal anecdotes about their stays and considerations for travel logistics.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, is considering the Best Western Grant Park or the Congress Plaza and seeks feedback from others.
  • Another participant shares their experience of staying at the Holiday Inn Express, noting its proximity to Union Station and a conference hotel.
  • One participant mentions they are staying at the Congress Plaza based on a recommendation from another director who had a positive experience there last year.
  • Several users discuss their preference for being closer to a conference hotel due to walking concerns, especially for a team member who is pregnant.
  • One participant expresses concerns about parking costs at the Congress Plaza, noting conflicting information about rates.
  • Another participant mentions reading reviews about the Congress Plaza, including issues with air conditioning and hot water, but also notes that recent reviews have been more positive.
  • One participant shares a positive experience from the Essex Inn, highlighting its cleanliness, reasonable rates, and proximity to shuttle buses.
  • Another participant mentions that the Embassy Suites offers a full breakfast and evening appetizers, making it a worthwhile option despite being a short walk from a conference hotel.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best hotel options, with no clear consensus emerging on a single preferred hotel among participants.

Contextual Notes

Participants are sharing personal experiences and preferences regarding hotel stays in Chicago, particularly in relation to an upcoming event. Considerations include proximity to conference venues, parking availability, and overall comfort.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on non-conference hotel options in Chicago may find the shared experiences and recommendations helpful.

etteluap70PC
etteluap70PC
Gold Member
Messages
3,657
I would like to hear fellow cheffer's experience staying at other hotels around Chicago. I am considering either the Best western Grant Park or the Congress Plaza. Both are a few blocks from the Chicago Hilton.

TIA!
 
I have never stayed at a conference hotel. Our group enjoys the July walks to the hotels for the bus. This year one of the ladies was able to secure the Holiday Inn Express on Harrison (I think)....$130 plus tax a night. Only .25 mile from Union Station (we are taking the MegaBus in) and only 1 mile from a conference hotel. Someday, when I don't want to walk, we will stay at a conference hotel.
 
We're staying at the Congress Plaza. Another director recommended it - she stayed there last year. Sorry I can't give a review which is what you are asking for but I'm willing to give it a try.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Thanks for the imput! We decided to skip the megabus. This is the first NC for 2 of the gals on my team. We are driving though and it will be fun. I want to be a little closer to a Conf. Hotel. One of my team members will be 5 1/2 months pregnant so I don't want to add to her walking too much. We walk so much at McCormick.
 
etteluap70PC said:
Thanks for the imput! We decided to skip the megabus. This is the first NC for 2 of the gals on my team. We are driving though and it will be fun. I want to be a little closer to a Conf. Hotel. One of my team members will be 5 1/2 months pregnant so I don't want to add to her walking too much. We walk so much at McCormick.
Click to expand...

I'm driving in too. The Congress has parking for $28/night (more if you use valet). It's 2 blocks from the Hilton so it's not much extra walking.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
BethCooks4U said:
I'm driving in too. The Congress has parking for $28/night (more if you use valet). It's 2 blocks from the Hilton so it's not much extra walking.
Click to expand...

Hmmmmm the congress told me it was 33 even for self...

yup 2 blocks away is why it is in my top 2 choices. I just read alot of reviews about bad AC no hot water and picketers...
 
etteluap70PC said:
Hmmmmm the congress told me it was 33 even for self...

yup 2 blocks away is why it is in my top 2 choices. I just read alot of reviews about bad AC no hot water and picketers...
Click to expand...

I was told by the hotel that the strike has been going on for 6 years and that the strikers leave the guests alone and the hotel is fully staffed. The more poor reviews I read were dated several years ago. a few more recent but over all they sounded fine to me - you will always here more negative on those things. I was also told by the hotel that they remodeled/updated 2 years ago.

From their website:

Overnight Parking:
Valet Parking, Car: $33.00, Van: $38.00
Self Parking, Car: $28.00, Van: $33.00
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
Really want to hear from those of you who have stayed at these hotels. Thanks!
 
Paulette, we didn't have any problems with AC or hot water last year. It was nice to be at a quiet hotel, away from the busyness that comes with conference.
 
We stayed at the Essex Inn last year and loved it! We will be staying there again this year and are excited about being there, as we are driving in too. It is directly accross the side street to the Hilton (20 Steps) to the shuttle buses! It wasn't as crazy as the conference hotels, nice, clean and it wasn't as expensive. I was able to book a room for Sunday night $129, Monday is $149, Tuesday and Wednesday is $169 or $179. I really can't complain. I think that the parking was $35 per day. I really don't remember. But needless to say it is worth it to have in secured parking instead of a lot on the block.

When I lived in Chicago, I remember that McCormick had overnight parking, I want to say it was $18 or $20. I woud check and see though. The Shuttle buses should be running on Monday, so I would drop my stuff off at the hotel and then drive to McCormick to park and pick up the registration packet, then take the shuttle back to the hotel.

I can't wait, see you there!!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
McCormik website says overnight parking is not available... Thanks for the info on the Essex I considered it but if we are going for Non NC hotel we want to save a bit more.
 
EMBASSY SUITES! If I remember correctly, it's only one or two blocks from a conference hotel (it was an easy walk), has a FULL, hot breakfast and appetizers and drinks in the evening included in the cost. Well worth the walk.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some recommended non-conference hotels in Chicago for Pampered Chef consultants?

Some popular non-conference hotels recommended by fellow Cheffers include the Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown, the Holiday Inn Express Chicago, and the Best Western River North. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations and are conveniently located near key attractions.

Are there any budget-friendly hotel options in Chicago for Cheffers?

Yes, budget-friendly options include the Red Roof Inn Chicago Downtown and the Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago. Both provide affordable rates while still being close to the conference venue and other attractions.

Which non-conference hotels offer shuttle services to the conference venue?

The Hyatt Place Chicago/Downtown and the Marriott Residence Inn Chicago Downtown offer shuttle services to major conference venues. It's advisable to confirm shuttle availability when booking your stay.

What amenities should I look for in a non-conference hotel in Chicago?

Look for hotels that offer free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, fitness centers, and convenient access to public transportation. These amenities can enhance your stay and make it easier to navigate the city.

How can I find reviews of non-conference hotels in Chicago from other Pampered Chef consultants?

You can find reviews by joining Pampered Chef consultant groups on social media platforms like Facebook or by checking travel review websites such as TripAdvisor. Fellow consultants often share their experiences and recommendations in these forums.

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