I stayed at the Knickerbocker during a summer conference and found it to be a solid, historic hotel with a lot of charm and a few quirks. The location is excellent—just steps from the Magnificent Mile and close to Lake Michigan, which made it easy to enjoy both the conference and the city’s attractions.
What I liked:
The lobby and public spaces are beautiful, with that classic old-Chicago elegance.
The room was clean and comfortable, with a good-sized bathroom and surprisingly quiet for being so close to downtown.
The staff was polite and helpful throughout my stay.
The price was very reasonable for the location—great value compared to many nearby hotels.
A few things to note:
It’s an older building, and some of that shows—things like slower elevators, vintage fixtures, and smaller closets.
The resort fee is cheaper than most area hotels but won’t provide many additional services.
The air conditioning worked fine, but it was a little loud at night.
Overall, I’d recommend the Knickerbocker to anyone who values location, character, and affordability over luxury. It’s a great choice if you want a comfortable, classic hotel experience in a central area without paying high-end prices.