When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Willows Hotel
Why The Willows Hotel is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Willows Hotel in Chicago offers a unique blend of 19th-century charm and modern comfort, making it an ideal spot for friends to meet and enjoy a memorable stay. Nestled in the peaceful Lincoln Park neighborhood, this boutique hotel provides a quiet retreat away from the city's hustle and bustle while still being conveniently close to popular sites like Wrigley Field, the Lincoln Park Zoo, and local museums. What makes The Willows Hotel special is its distinctive old-school decor and inviting atmosphere that reflects the history and character of the area. Visitors appreciate the cozy guest rooms equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibar, and complimentary toiletries, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant environment. The recently renovated lobby and common areas enhance the overall experience, providing warm and welcoming spaces for guests to relax and socialize. Friendly staff and excellent service further contribute to the hotel’s appeal, with many guests noting their accommodating nature and cleanliness of the facilities. Whether you are planning a casual meet-up with friends or a restful getaway, The Willows Hotel’s combination of historic elegance, strategic location, and comfortable accommodations make it an excellent choice for social gatherings in Chicago.
Here's what people think of The Willows Hotel
As of recent, The Willows Hotel holds a 4.2-star rating based on 736 reviews.
User reviews of The Willows Hotel reveal an overall positive guest experience, with a current rating around 4.2 based on over 700 reviews. Many guests praise the hotel for its charming vintage character coupled with a quiet and safe neighborhood setting. Positive reviews highlight the cleanliness of the rooms, the comfort of the beds, and the accommodating and friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming environment. Guests also appreciate the hotel's location, which offers easy walking access to major attractions like Wrigley Field and Lincoln Park, making it convenient for both leisure and social outings. The unique historic ambiance and renovated common areas receive particular commendation, offering an inviting atmosphere that stands out from more generic hotels in the city. However, some negative feedback points to areas needing improvement, such as small and somewhat outdated bathrooms and occasional musty odors. A few reviews mention construction or maintenance disruptions that impacted the lobby experience temporarily. Despite these criticisms, many guests express a willingness to return, attesting to the strong appeal of the hotel's character and value. Overall, The Willows Hotel maintains a solid reputation as a charming, comfortable, and well-located option in Chicago suitable for friends seeking both relaxation and access to local attractions.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
RKK
The lobby and rooms are lovely, clean and comfortable. The front desk personnel were friendly and professional. There was a wall unit for AC/ heating but I didn't need to use it. Even at 80 F in July the room stayed pleasantly cool, and I could open the window. I asked if any rooms were available for early check in at 1100am. Sure, for an extra charge of $35. I never encountered that before. Usually, it's yes we can, or no, none available this early. This might be a new trend or an isolated incident. Anyway, it spoiled an otherwise pleasant experience.
Tarri Kruger
$339.00 per night X 3 Very true to be Quaint and Cozy. However, since it is so old and not updated there are things that the owners and management could and SHOULD do in order to want their patrons to return and/or refer the hotel on to others. These are a few of my experiences that could of been avoided. * Breakfast was advertised but when I checked in, was told No breakfast offered. *Cold coffee, (morning 1)offered in the lobby along with hot water for tea. One Generic container of powder creamer and a handful of sugar packets. Informed the person on duty of the Cold coffee. *Cold coffee, (morning 2) informed attendant at front desk. * Cold coffee, (morning 3) Used the microwave in the lobby to heat it up. * Asked the front desk if I could get another bottle of water. I was told No, you only get the two in your room. (Which you have to purchase.) * NO vending machines * No ice machines * Very limited TV channels * Plumbing/Hot water issues Hotel, rooms, hallways and lobby are all very outdated. Very understandable considering the age of the building. But you could offer so much more with just the small stuff to help your patrons look past the old and worn stuff. Shame on you! I love to visit Lakeview several times a year but I do not think I will stay at the Willows Hotel again.
adrian jimenez
Stayed here for two nights. The staff was friendly and gave great recommendations for dining nearby. The neighborhood is cute, and felt safe walking around, even at night. Walked from the hotel to Wrigley Field and back again at night and didn't feel unsafe. Would stay again.
Ben Stilp
It’s an older hotel. It’s not a chain. So the rooms are gonna look a little beat up. But overall, it’s clean and it is in a great location. I had a room facing an inner courtyard. That was pretty quiet. However, I did hear noise from the neighbors during the night, which was frustrating. This isn’t a big fancy chain hotel so adjust your expectations and you’ll be fine.
Palmer Greene
Avoid this shabby hotel if you can. The rooms and halls are tired and in dire need of an update. The lobby with a gas fireplace could be nice, but the furnishings are paltry, the bathroom a mess, and coffee selection pitiful (options: black or non-dairy creamer). It’s also hard to enjoy sitting there with the same Bruno Mars song playing on repeat for over an hour (not kidding). Very annoyingly our key cards kept losing their access to the hotel room. This was true for multiple keycards despite keeping them in separate locations (pocket and purse). We had to get them changed six times across two days, and it was highly unhelpful when each time the staff would give us a slack look and chide us for keeping the cards next to electronics. Which was never the case. No “sorry for your trouble” or “let me look into that for you.” I was keeping the card in the same place I do when I go yo any other hotel and never have this issue. Overall not a charming place and not worth the $$. I have had much better experiences at cheaper hotels.
How to reach The Willows Hotel
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Why The Willows Hotel may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Willows Hotel with your friends?
Gathering friends at The Willows Hotel is a choice rooted in its unique blend of cozy charm, prime location, and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the tranquil Lake View East neighborhood of Chicago, it offers a peaceful retreat amid the vibrant energy of the city. The hotel’s timeless, boutique vibe combined with warm wood furnishings and plush bedding invites guests to relax while enjoying the comforts of a home away from home. Its proximity—just under a mile—from scenic Lake Michigan, Lincoln Park Zoo, and the Chicago History Museum allows your group to easily explore and enjoy some of the city’s best attractions together. Whether your group wants to unwind by the cozy fireplace in the lobby or embark on outdoor activities like walks and bike rides along the lakefront, The Willows is an ideal launchpad. Plus, the attentive service, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, and inviting common spaces provide plenty of areas to socialize or plan adventures. Its relatively modest 3-star rating belies the depth of charm and convenience it offers to groups seeking a memorable, comfortable, and fun meetup destination.
What activities are available at The Willows Hotel for groups?
The Willows Hotel caters well to groups looking for both relaxation and activity. Inside the hotel, guests can enjoy the thoughtfully designed common spaces including a welcoming lobby with a fireplace—perfect for gathering with friends after a long day out. The hotel also offers on-demand services such as concierge assistance to help arrange city tours, dining reservations, or ticket purchases for local events. For those inclined to maintain their fitness routines or recharge, nearby local gyms are accessible through partnerships facilitated by the hotel, giving groups flexibility to stay active. The hotel’s cozy guest rooms combine elegance and comfort with modern amenities like air conditioning, a minibar, and flat-screen TVs, allowing groups to retreat to private, restful environments at the end of each day.
Outside the hotel, The Willows’ location is a gateway to one of Chicago's most iconic neighborhoods. Guests can stroll or jog along Lake Michigan’s shoreline trails, just a short distance away, which offer stunning skyline views and leisurely natural beauty. Lincoln Park Zoo, located about a mile from the hotel, is a free attraction featuring diverse animal species that appeals to visitors of all ages, making it a perfect activity to enjoy as a group. Nearby, the Chicago History Museum provides an enriching cultural experience, showcasing the city’s rich heritage through interactive exhibits. For evening entertainment, the hotel is within reach of renowned local spots, including vibrant blues bars and top-tier restaurants serving classic American comfort food and more, ideal for group dinners or celebrations. The combination of these indoor and outdoor activities ensures there is something to satisfy every member of your party.
Why is The Willows Hotel perfect for a group meetup?
The Willows Hotel stands out as a top choice for hosting group meetups primarily due to its balanced blend of ambiance, amenities, and location. Groups often seek a place where they can both congregate comfortably and have easy access to entertainment—The Willows offers just that. The hotel’s intimate size, with only 55 well-appointed rooms, means it avoids the impersonal feel of larger hotels, creating a more connected atmosphere perfect for gatherings. Its multiple common areas, including the elegant yet inviting lobby space with a fireplace, foster easy conversation and group bonding. Services like 24-hour front desk assistance and concierge support ensure that logistical needs like room blocks, transport coordination, or special event planning can be smoothly managed.
The Willows’ location within the Lincoln Park neighborhood is another major draw. This vibrant area is rich in both recreational and cultural offerings, catering to a variety of group interests—whether a nature walk along Lake Michigan, exploring Chicago’s history, or enjoying world-class dining and live music. The hotel’s accessibility via public transit and easy parking options further facilitates group arrivals and departures, minimizing hassle. Additionally, thoughtful touches like air-conditioned rooms, free high-speed Wi-Fi for sharing group photos or streaming entertainment, and an onsite minibar enhance the overall experience, making group stays both comfortable and convenient. With its cozy yet stylish environment and proximity to exciting Chicago staples, The Willows Hotel perfectly accommodates groups looking for a memorable, fun, and seamless meetup.
How does The Willows Hotel support comfort and convenience for groups?
Comfort is a hallmark of The Willows Hotel experience, tailored thoughtfully to meet the needs of both solo travelers and groups. Each guest room features premium bedding, plush queen-size beds, and a separate sitting area which allows friends or family members to relax comfortably without feeling cramped. The rooms are elegantly furnished with classic wood elements and equipped with modern amenities including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable, and mini-bars stocked for convenience. Free toiletries, bathrobes, and spacious bathrooms complete the accommodation’s refined feel. High-speed Wi-Fi provided throughout the hotel allows group members to stay connected effortlessly, whether for sharing memories or managing work-related tasks.
Convenience is enhanced by services designed specifically for the group traveler. The 24-hour front desk and concierge are at your disposal for any requests or assistance, from booking local excursions to managing luggage storage. For groups driving in, offsite private parking is available, and the hotel is easily reachable via Chicago’s public transport network, offering flexibility for people arriving separately. Laundry and dry cleaning services are available, an important consideration for groups staying for extended periods. The hotel also maintains a 100% smoke-free environment and offers accessible features ensuring comfort and inclusivity. This thoughtful attention to guest needs ensures that groups can focus more on enjoying their time together and less on logistics or discomfort.
What dining options and nearby eateries make it a great spot for group meals?
While The Willows Hotel itself hosts a comfort food destination on-site that serves a robust menu of all-American favorites, its position in the lively Lincoln Park area dramatically expands dining opportunities for groups. Within walking distance lies a diverse selection of restaurants and bars, offering everything from casual bites to elegant dining experiences. This variety means groups can tailor their meals to any mood or preference, whether it’s a lively night out with craft cocktails and live blues music, or a relaxed brunch after a morning of sightseeing.
The hotel’s onsite restaurant atmosphere aligns well with group gatherings, creating an inviting space where friends and family can enjoy hearty, familiar dishes in a vibrant setting. Nearby, world-famous music venues like Kingston Mines provide an exciting after-dinner option to immerse in Chicago’s cultural scene while sharing the evening with loved ones. For those who prefer exploring local flavors, countless eateries in the neighborhood offer everything from gourmet fare to global cuisine, ensuring that no group member feels left out. The combination of the hotel’s dining options and its proximity to culinary hubs helps make every meal part of the great group experience.
What cultural and recreational attractions are near The Willows Hotel to enjoy with your friends?
The Willows Hotel’s location is one of its strongest assets when hosting group meetups, placing guests near a wealth of cultural and recreational activities. The nearby Lincoln Park Zoo, a beloved attraction famed for free admission and diverse animal exhibits, allows groups to enjoy a day outdoors surrounded by wildlife. This attraction appeals to all ages and makes for a relaxed, engaging outing. Adjacent to the zoo is the Chicago History Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the city’s past through extensive collections and hands-on exhibits—ideal for groups interested in culture and education.
Additionally, the expansive shoreline of Lake Michigan presents abundant recreational possibilities including jogging, biking, or scenic walks, perfect for groups who enjoy being active in nature. The lakefront’s natural beauty and skyline views provide a picture-perfect backdrop for group photos and casual exploration. For those whose interests lean towards nightlife and entertainment, vibrant Chicago venues are nearby, offering live music, theaters, and nightlife options that can fill evenings with fun and shared memories. All these attractions combine to make The Willows Hotel a hub for unforgettable group experiences blending relaxation, activity, and cultural enrichment.