The hype
Travelers love the fun vibe and location but consistently complain about the tiny rooms and lack of privacy.
Moxy Chicago Downtown
$150-250/ night
Book this if You're under 35, prioritize a 24/7 taco window over a closet, and treat your hotel room as a place to pass out, not hang out.
Why People Love It
- Zombie Taco is open 24/7 for post-bar sustenance
- Check-in happens at the bar and comes with a free 'Got Moxy' cocktail
- The lobby is a legitimate social hub with arcade games and communal tables
Quick Take: A glorified, high-design dorm room for adults who want to be in the center of the River North party scene.
Reviewed by @WayfaringAimlessly: I stayed here for a quick city break and the energy was unmatched. The room was a cozy crash pad, but the real highlight was the lobby scene—games, DJs, and great drinks. If you want a quiet library, this isn't it, but for a fun weekend, it's perfect.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Thin walls mean you will hear your neighbors, the hallway traffic, and potentially the plumbing (described by one guest as 'water running all night').
- You travel light and don't need ironing boards or desk space
- You want to be walking distance to River North nightlife
- You enjoy a high-energy lobby with a DJ rather than a quiet library
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable, though some guests report 'light' cleaning during multi-night stays.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly spotless, but watch for peeling paint or musty smells due to poor ventilation in some rooms.
- Maintenance: Modern build (2018), but high traffic means some scuffs and wear are visible.
- Linens & towels: Standard Marriott quality—clean and crisp, though towels can be scarce (ask for more).
- Odors & scents: Usually fresh, with the occasional 'damp' complaint in rooms with poor airflow.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Sirens and traffic on LaSalle Drive
- Plumbing noise between floors
- Hallway doors slamming
Before you book
Good to know
- There is no on-site parking; the recommended garage is off-site and costs ~$55/night.
- The 'Destination Fee' usually includes a daily F&B credit—ask at check-in so you don't waste it.
- Elevators can be slow during peak checkout times.
What to pack
- Earplugs or a white noise machine
- Flip flops (if you're squeamish about the shower-in-bedroom situation)
- A steamer (irons are available but clunky in small rooms)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Corner Queen City View (Room ending in 05 often cited) for actual natural light and city vibes
- Top floor (8th) to minimize overhead noise
Rooms to avoid
- Inner Circle rooms (claustrophobic, dark, zero privacy)
- Low floor rooms facing the alley (views of 'chipped brick walls' and dumpsters)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love a high-floor room facing the street (City View) to avoid the internal courtyard darkness. If possible, away from the elevators.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool?
No pool, but the lobby has foosball and arcade games.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs up to 40lbs are welcome for a $50 fee per stay.
Is breakfast included?
No, but Zombie Taco sells breakfast burritos and there's coffee in the lobby.
How bad is the noise?
Noticeable. If you're a light sleeper, request a high floor or bring earplugs.
Is there a gym?
Yes, a 24-hour fitness center with pink equipment, boxing bag, and... Starbursts.
What is the 'Inner Circle' room?
Rooms facing an internal courtyard. They are dark and look directly into other rooms.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Destination Fee' often includes a daily credit for Zombie Taco—don't let it expire.
- ✨
Ask for a room on the 8th floor to avoid the 'stomping from above' complaints.
- ✨
The lobby lockers are free to use if you arrive before check-in.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'closet' is literally just pegs on the wall.
💡The shower door sometimes leaks water into the sleeping area if not closed perfectly.
💡The 'view' from alley rooms is often just a brick wall and trash compactors.
💡You might get a 'Got Moxy' token for a free drink, but the cocktail is pre-batched.
💡Housekeeping is sometimes 'light'—mostly emptying bins and making beds, not deep scrubbing daily.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Moxy Chicago Downtown is located and what's nearby.