The Royal Sonesta Chicago River North
505 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654, South Chicago, United States
4-star hotel
Guest rating: 4.4 / 5
Overview
The Royal Sonesta Chicago River North is a hip, contemporary 4-star hotel at 505 N State St in Chicago’s River North area. It holds a public rating of 4.4/5 from 1,797 reviews and is positioned for easy access to downtown attractions and shopping near the Magnificent Mile.
Rooms & Suites
Rooms are designed in a chic, colorful style and include work desks and yoga mats. Fish bowls with live goldfish are available upon request, and many rooms feature city views. Select suites add sitting areas, soaking tubs, and iPhone docking stations.
Dining & Social Perks
On-site dining centers on a sleek, 1940s-inspired restaurant and bar. The hotel offers complimentary morning coffee and tea, plus a nightly wine hour. Wi‑Fi is free with a no-fee membership.
Amenities & Recreation
Recreation facilities include an indoor pool, a sundeck, and a 24-hour gym. These amenities support both leisure stays and travelers who want to keep to a fitness routine while in the city.
Location & Nearby Highlights
The hotel is a 1-minute walk from the Grand metro station and about three blocks from designer boutiques along the Magnificent Mile. It’s close to the Chicago Riverwalk (484 m), The Chicago Theatre (624 m), and Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (885 m), with Millennium Park (1,050 m) and Cloud Gate (1,014 m) also nearby. Navy Pier is about 1,887 m away, while the Art Institute of Chicago (1,360 m) and Willis Tower/Skydeck Chicago (1,516 m) are within a short trip.
Best for
This hotel is best for travelers who want a lively River North base within easy reach of major downtown sights like the Chicago Riverwalk, Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile. It also suits guests who value on-site downtime—an indoor pool, sundeck, and 24-hour gym—plus social perks like a nightly wine hour. Business-minded travelers may appreciate in-room work desks and free Wi‑Fi (with a no-fee membership) paired with quick transit access at Grand station.
Travel tips
Use the Grand metro station (about a 1-minute walk) for fast connections around Chicago without needing a car. Many top attractions are walkable from the hotel, including the Chicago Riverwalk (484 m), The Chicago Theatre (624 m), and Millennium Park/Cloud Gate (about 1.0–1.05 km). If you plan to drive, note that guest reviews mention parking can be expensive (reported at $75/day), so budgeting ahead is wise.
What guests say
Guests frequently highlight friendly, helpful staff and a welcoming service experience. Location is repeatedly noted as a strong point for being close to downtown attractions and tourist areas. Positive mentions also include the pool, rooms, and value for the price. Recurring criticisms focus on sleep comfort (beds and pillows), occasional room maintenance concerns, and the high cost of parking.
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