The Essex Inn is not the Hilton (teasingly located next door), but it's more than adequate. I stayed for 4 nights in early January. The room was a little shabby, but clean, and the heat worked like a charm. You could tell that the place was once stylish, and actually, they're starting to renovate the whole hotel, from the top down. Also, the amenities were great: free, empty, and well-stocked gym, helpful staff, in-house restaurant, and spectacular location. You're right in the Loop, which at this price point is a rarity. I used Yelp to find local restaurants and cafes before I went, and was amazed by the food. Cons: (1) bathroom facilities were clearly old, and (2) wireless internet signal strength depended on where I was sitting and cost $6/day.
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