The hype
Travelers love the modern lobby and comfortable beds, but often complain about soundproofing.
Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel
$125-180/ night
Book this if You need a polished, reliable base for North Shore business or a wedding, and want free parking near the highway.
Why People Love It
- Fresh 2024/2025 renovation with chic botanical decor
- Free shuttle to Ravinia Festival and Chicago Botanic Garden
- Ruth's Chris Steak House is literally attached to the lobby
Quick Take: A sharp-looking suburban corporate hotel that nails the visuals but struggles with paper-thin walls and noisy heating units.
Reviewed by @thehonestpassport: I booked this for a quick recharge and was blown away. The steak dinner was top-tier, and lounging in the robe with that rainfall shower was exactly what I needed. It’s the perfect spot if you want luxury without the downtown traffic.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'new hotel smell' from the renovation fades the second you hear your neighbor sneeze.
- You're attending a concert at Ravinia and want a free ride there
- You're traveling with a dog (rare $25/night pet fee)
- You refuse to pay for parking in the Chicago suburbs
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service; staff is frequently praised for friendliness.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly clean, but watch out for peeling wallpaper or worn grout in unrenovated corners.
- Maintenance: The biggest weak point. Reports of broken ACs, rattling heaters, and low water pressure are common.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp thanks to the recent renovation; bedding is a highlight.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh and botanical; hallways are generally neutral.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Noisy in-room HVAC/furnace units
- Thin walls transmitting neighbor conversations
- Highway noise from I-94 (Edens Expressway) on the west side
Before you book
Good to know
- The free shuttle runs within a 5-mile radius, which covers Ravinia, Botanic Garden, and local offices.
- Breakfast is NOT included in standard rates; expect to pay ~$18 for the buffet.
- This is a popular wedding hotel; weekends can be rowdy in the lobby.
What to pack
- White noise machine or earplugs (essential for the thin walls)
- Swimsuit for the indoor pool
- Cash for Charlie Beinlich's (local burger legend nearby)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Corner King (slightly more space, often better layout)
- East-facing rooms (away from the highway for less road drone)
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevators (high foot traffic noise)
- West-facing rooms on lower floors (direct highway view and noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love a quiet room on a high floor, specifically facing East (away from the highway) and far from the elevator banks. If possible, a room with a recently checked HVAC unit would be appreciated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a resort fee?
No, there is no resort fee. You only pay for extras like breakfast and pets.
Is the pool open year-round?
Yes, there is a heated indoor pool open year-round.
How much is parking?
Self-parking is completely free. Valet is available for a fee during events.
Does the shuttle go to the airport?
No. The shuttle is local only (5-mile radius). You'll need an Uber or taxi for O'Hare.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, and it's a steal: $25 per night with a 2-pet limit and no weight restrictions listed.
Is breakfast included?
Usually no. The buffet at Pancetta costs around $12-19 per person unless you have a package or elite status.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Club Lounge' access is worth it if you want free breakfast and evening snacks, but check if it's open on weekends before upgrading.
- ✨
Walk to the back of the property to find a small garden area—a rare quiet spot.
- ✨
Ask the shuttle driver for their direct number for pick-ups from Ravinia; it can be chaotic trying to find them after a concert.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'renovation' was mostly cosmetic in the bedrooms; bathrooms often still have older, low toilets.
💡Water pressure is frequently cited as weak/disappointing.
💡The hotel is technically in Northbrook but feels isolated in a corporate office park.
💡You can order Ruth's Chris takeout directly to your room.
💡The 'botanical' decor is actually quite photogenic and a huge step up from the old beige Marriott look.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel is located and what's nearby.