Econo Lodge Willowbrook
820 W 79th St, Willowbrook, IL 60527, Chicago Ridge, United States
2-star hotel
Guest rating: 3.1 / 5
Overview
Econo Lodge Willowbrook is a 2-star budget hotel located just off Interstate 55 at 820 W 79th St in Willowbrook, Illinois, near Chicago Ridge. It's an older, no-frills property built around exterior-corridor access, positioned as a straightforward, value-oriented option for travelers passing through the western Chicago suburbs rather than a full-service resort.
Rooms
Rooms are low-key and functional, each equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a coffeemaker, and a sitting area. Access is via exterior corridors rather than interior hallways. Guest experiences with room condition vary, with some finding rooms clean and comfortable and others reporting maintenance issues, so it's worth requesting a recently refreshed room at check-in.
Dining & Amenities
A complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning, and free parking is available on site. The hotel also features a seasonal outdoor pool for warmer months. Pets are welcome for an additional fee, making this a practical stop for road-trippers traveling with animals.
Location & Surroundings
The hotel sits about 2 miles from Darien Sportsplex, home to soccer and ice-skating facilities, and roughly 7 miles from Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve. It is also within reasonable driving distance of Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve (about 3.5 km), The Forge Adventure Park & Ziplines (about 8.3 km), and Graue Mill & Museum (about 8.4 km), with Brookfield Zoo and the Chicago Zoological Society roughly 13 km away. Its off-highway location makes it a convenient overnight base for exploring the western suburbs, though downtown Chicago sightseeing requires a longer drive.
Best for
This hotel suits budget-conscious travelers, road-trippers, and pet owners looking for an affordable, no-frills overnight stay near I-55 with free parking and breakfast included. It also works for suburban visitors interested in outdoor recreation at nearby Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, The Forge Adventure Park & Ziplines, or Darien Sportsplex, rather than travelers seeking a polished, amenity-rich experience or easy downtown Chicago access.
Travel tips
Since the hotel is located directly off Interstate 55, a car is the most practical way to get around, as many attractions like Brookfield Zoo and The Morton Arboretum are 13 km or more away. Guests planning a Chicago sightseeing trip should note the suburban location adds significant drive time to downtown. Given mixed feedback on room condition, it can help to inspect the room at check-in and request a change if needed, as staff have been noted to accommodate such requests.
What guests say
Guest feedback is mixed but centers on a few recurring themes. Many reviewers praise the front desk and general staff for friendly, responsive customer service, including willingness to move guests to better rooms when issues arise, and several call out the quiet, well-located setting near dining options. On the negative side, a notable number of guests report cleanliness and maintenance problems, including malfunctioning plumbing or fixtures and rooms needing better vacuuming, carpet shampooing, or dusting. Overall, the hotel is frequently described as a solid value for the price, particularly for budget travelers, even though the property shows its age.
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