Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston

The hotel offers a convenient location in downtown Evanston, making it an ideal choice for visitors to Northwestern University and those looking to explore the city's attractions. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's cleanliness and the spaciousness of its rooms, contributing to a comfortable stay. It is particularly well-suited for families and couples seeking a central base with good amenities. To enhance your experience, consider taking advantage of the hotel's proximity to public transportation for easy access to Chicago, and note that while many find the beds comfortable, some prefer a softer mattress.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities for guest convenience and relaxation. Many guests appreciate the presence of a small indoor pool and a hot tub, though some note the hot tub's jets are not very strong and the pool can be cold. There is also a well-equipped fitness center with a good selection of cardio and weight equipment, including a Peloton bike, which is a significant plus for active travelers. While some guests experienced issues with ice machines not working on their floor, overall, the availability of amenities like laundry machines, a small snack shop, and a bar area in the evenings adds to the convenience. Most rooms are equipped with a mini fridge and a microwave, and some even feature a Keurig machine.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives high praise for its cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained. However, some reviews mention a need for renovation in certain areas, with observations of rooms feeling "rundown" or "unimpressive," and occasional reports of stains or a sour smell in rooms or common areas, possibly due to strong air fresheners. Room spaciousness is a recurring positive, with many appreciating the generous size. While most guests find the beds comfortable, a notable number describe them as "hard" or "firm" without a pillow top. Noise levels are generally reported as quiet, though some guests experienced loud neighbors or early morning cleaning staff noise. Issues like a broken room door latch, glitching TVs, or non-functional automatic blackout shades were occasionally reported, along with some concerns about bathroom lighting and drainage in walk-in showers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers breakfast options, which receive mixed reviews. Most guests find the breakfast to be good, with some praising its variety and fresh options, including hot items and fresh fruit. However, some describe the buffet as "poor" or "mediocre," with limited choices and occasional issues like dry muffins or expired products. The hotel also features a restaurant and a bar area, with the bar offering good service and menu options in the evenings. Some guests noted that the restaurant closes after breakfast, with no food or drink available until the evening. Complimentary coffee is available in the mornings, though some found it lukewarm, and there is a snack shop in the lobby, which some found to be expensive or not well-stocked.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location in downtown Evanston, making it highly convenient for guests. It is within easy walking distance of Northwestern University, numerous restaurants, shops, and a movie theater. Public transportation is readily accessible, with the train station and Metra lines just a block or two away, providing convenient access to Chicago. Parking is available in an adjacent garage, which is generally described as convenient and safe, though it is not directly connected to the hotel, requiring guests to walk outside. Some guests found the parking expensive, and there were occasional reports of elevator issues in the garage or problems with parking tickets not working. The area is considered safe and pleasant, with a farmers market often held nearby.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight the excellent customer service provided by the front desk team, who are described as welcoming, knowledgeable, and proactive in assisting with requests, including quick check-in and luggage storage. Housekeeping service is generally good, though some guests reported inconsistent room cleaning schedules or issues with amenities not being replenished without multiple requests. The shuttle service and its drivers are also commended for their pleasantness and efficiency. While the majority of feedback is positive, a few guests reported less friendly interactions, particularly regarding issues with room readiness or specific requests.

Additional Information
The hotel is notably pet-friendly, with many guests appreciating the welcoming attitude towards their animals. Some guests noted that finding suitable outdoor areas for pets nearby can be a challenge. There were recurring mentions of fire alarms going off frequently, which caused disruption to guests' sleep. The hotel provides liquid hand soap and shower products in rooms, with some guests praising their scent. Guests should be aware that parking is not complimentary and can be expensive, with varying rates depending on booking method. Some guests reported issues with overcharging for pet fees or parking, requiring follow-up with the front desk. The hotel offers rewards program benefits for members, though some found them minimal or not clearly explained.