My most recent trip back to my hometown of Chicago was one of the best yet! I got to spend some alone time with my honey; I got to experience some of my favorite things with my kids, and I got to eat some of my favorite food. This trip was truly an Authentic Chicago Experience, and I got to do it all while staying at the perfect location. Chicago’s South Loop Hotel is nestled perfectly between downtown Chicago and the historic Bronzeville neighborhood while only being a 10-minute walk from Chinatown-see what I mean by the perfect location? I visited Chicago this past July and stumbled upon this lovely Boutique Hotel, so I had to come back for more and this time I was happy to collaborate with them for this post.
What is an Authentic Chicago Experience?
An Authentic Chicago Experience is the benefit of enjoying downtown Chicago while also being able to appreciate Chicago’s historical neighborhoods and culture.
If you ever visit Chicago’s South Loop Hotel, you’ll learn that it has a certain swag to it. It’s kind of hard to explain, but when you walk through the lobby, you’re met by beautiful paintings of Jazz musicians and eclectic artwork. That mixed with a welcoming staff that makes you feel right at home just screams swag, and I’m always here for swag.
The Hotel
When we checked in on a Friday night, I noticed that everyone was heading to the bar. It was then that I learned that South Loop Hotel is home to one of the best karaoke bars in Chicago. Don’t believe me? Yelp it. In addition to the bar the hotel houses the 5 Star Kimberly Coleman Salon. As a woman who values good hair at all times, it was comforting to know that the salon was right downstairs. The Kimberly Coleman Salon offers spa services, which include, waxing, facials, manicures, and pedicures.
Guests at Chicago’s South Loop Hotel include an eclectic group of hipsters, young professionals, millennial families as well as baby boomers that value location, culture, and atmosphere.
Two things that I love most about South Loop Hotel is that parking is free and they offer a “real” military discount. You can easily pay $40+ a day for parking downtown Chicago, so I will always appreciate the free parking. The hotel also has two lots, so I never had to worry that the lot might be too full.
The military discount they offer saves you money and not just a few pennies or the tax, back in July when I booked a two-day getaway for me and my husband I was able to save over $100 because of the military discount. See what I mean by a “real” discount?
The hotel boasts newly renovated oversized rooms with extremely comfortable beds .
The kids loved the beds as much as I did.
The bathroom is home to large a soaking tub with ample hot water and great water pressure, as much as we travel, I’ve come to learn that hot water and water pressure are critical to a pleasant hotel stay.
The views day or night are impressive, and the sound of the L train was soothing. The first time Vayda heard the train, she asked what the noise was, and I was so happy to introduce here to a sound that I’d heard my entire childhood.
Chicago with Families
Since the hotel is situated near the historical Bronzeville neighborhood and the cultural Chinatown but not at all too far from the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago we wanted to take all of that in.
As a Chicagoan, I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I’d never taken a stroll through Chinatown but being that it was so close the family and me took the 10 min walk and it was well worth it.
From Chinatown we took an Uber to The Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier. Brown Sugar was just as fascinated by the museum as the kids.
Just Us in Chicago
For a few days we were able to ditch the kids and spend some much needed quality time together. For brunch, the front desk suggested we try the cute little breakfast spot Yolk. It reminded us of our college brunch spot, and it became our go-to for the rest of our stay. 
After brunch, I took my honey on a date to the Skydeck and it was nothing short of amazing. 
The next day we took a stroll downtown to take in some views and snap some pics of art both in the South Loop and downtown Chicago.
My trip back home reminded me of everything I love about Chicago and I was so happy I got to stay right in the midst of everything I love. Special thanks to the South Loop Hotel for hosting us and I highly suggest Chicago’s South Loop Hotel for anyone seeking an Authentic Chicago Experience.
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What I’m Wearing
Black ankle boot (similar)
Black Fishnets (similar)
Such a lovely experience! Your stay at the hotel sounds so nice and the pictures are beautiful! I’m glad you get to spend some quality time with your family! And thank you for sharing your experience with the Chicago’s south loop hotel with us. Will Definitely keep in mind.
Edwige | http://www.hyonozglam.com
It sounds like you all had a wonderful trip! I’ll definitely have to check out this hotel the next time I’m in Chicago!