BookResorts™ is an independent travel network offering over 100,000 hotels worldwide.is an independent travel network.

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North Chicago, Illinois
Book Now Or call, 24/7+1 (888) 605-1350
Rooms & Suites Dine & Drink Activities Gallery FAQs
Ready to book?Lowest online rate, free perks and upgrades.Book nowCall 24/7 · 888-605-1350
Hotel comparison guide

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North vs The Peninsula Chicago

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North is a casual, social Marriott hotel in River North that suits travelers who want an active downtown base, flexible dining, and a pet-friendly policy. The Peninsula Chicago is an iconic 5-star hotel on the Magnificent Mile for travelers prioritizing polished luxury, a full-service spa, and classic downtown service.

Updated · about 0.6 km apart

Bright corner guest room with two queen beds and city view at Aloft Chicago Downtown River North

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North

Casual · Social lobby/bar · Pet-friendly

Best for travelers who want a lively lobby scene, straightforward American dining, and a pet-friendly, family-friendly downtown stay.

The Peninsula Chicago, Chicago, Illinois

The Peninsula Chicago

5-star luxury · Full-service spa · Magnificent Mile

Best for travelers seeking traditional five-star service, a full-service spa, indoor pool, and a central Magnificent Mile address.

Quick Verdict: Aloft Chicago Downtown River North vs The Peninsula Chicago

When Aloft Chicago Downtown River North wins: choose Aloft if you want a more casual, social hotel with an active lobby bar, 24/7 gym access, easy event space, and a genuinely pet-friendly policy (dogs up to 40 lbs stay free).

When The Peninsula Chicago wins: choose The Peninsula if you want classic five-star amenities — larger room inventory, a full-service spa, an indoor pool, concierge and limo/town-car options, and direct access to the Magnificent Mile shopping corridor.

Bottom line: Aloft is the practical, social downtown pick for families, pet owners, and budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location and atmosphere; The Peninsula is the choice for travelers upgrading to formal luxury, spa time, and a Magnificent Mile address.

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North vs The Peninsula Chicago – At a Glance

Side-by-side facts for Aloft Chicago Downtown River North and The Peninsula Chicago
CategoryAloft Chicago Downtown River NorthThe Peninsula Chicago
Overall vibeCasual, loft-style social lobby and bar; neighborhood restaurantFormal five-star luxury and polished service
LocationRiver North (515 N Clark St), a few blocks from the Magnificent Mile and Chicago RiverwalkOn the Magnificent Mile (108 E Superior St), steps from Michigan Avenue and Water Tower Place
Size (rooms)272 rooms339 guestrooms
Family & petsFamily-friendly; dog program (dogs up to 40 lbs, 1 per room, no charge)Family-friendly (children policies apply; some rooms permit pets with fees and restrictions)
PoolsNo pool on siteNumber of indoor pools - 1
Restaurants & barsBeatrix (restaurant/cafe) + W XYZ Bar (lobby bar) + 24/7 pantry2 restaurants (including Shanghai Terrace), 1 bar/lounge, room service (limited hours)
Spa & wellnessNo on-site spa; Re:charge Gym open 24/7Full-service spa with treatment rooms and a health club
Known forLEED-certified, lively lobby music and pool table, pet perksIconic luxury hotel on Michigan Avenue, concierge, limo/town-car service
RatingsNot publishedUser rating 9.8 (supplier listing)
Accessibility & servicesFree Wi‑Fi, 24/7 business center, event and meeting roomsComplimentary wired internet, concierge, express check-in, valet parking (surcharge)

A Look Inside Aloft Chicago Downtown River North

See all photos →

Location: River North convenience vs Michigan Avenue address

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North – Location

Aloft sits at 515 North Clark Street in River North, blocks from the Magnificent Mile and the Chicago Riverwalk.

  • A few-block walk to Michigan Avenue shops and Riverwalk attractions.
  • Close to theaters, Merchandise Mart, and House of Blues.
  • Off-site self-parking (Greenway garage) and valet parking available.

Aloft is a lively River North base for dining, nightlife, and easy walks to downtown sights.

The Peninsula Chicago – Location

The Peninsula is positioned at 108 East Superior Street on the Magnificent Mile, steps from Michigan Avenue shopping.

  • Direct access to high-end retail and Water Tower Place within immediate walking distance.
  • Near Northwestern Memorial Hospital and cultural sites listed in the supplier notes.
  • Preferred airport listed as O'Hare (ORD) and several downtown airport options noted.

The Peninsula is ideal if you want to be on the Magnificent Mile and close to luxury shopping and tourist landmarks.

Rooms: straightforward vs luxurious

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North – Rooms

Aloft offers 272 guest rooms in simple, modern layouts, including city-view options and accessible rooms.

  • Room types include Room; Room, City View; Room, City View (Windows on 2 Sides).
  • Guest bathrooms feature Bliss Spa–branded bath amenities.
  • Rooms are smoke-free; minimum check-in age is 21.

Expect efficient, comfortable rooms suited to families, business travelers, and pet owners.

The Peninsula Chicago – Rooms

The Peninsula's 339 guestrooms and multiple suite types cover a broad range of premium room categories.

  • Room types listed include Grand Premier King Room, Deluxe Room, Executive Suite, Michigan Avenue Suite, and multiple deluxe suites.
  • In-room amenities noted: minibars, 55-inch LED TVs, pillowtop beds with premium bedding, and separate tub and shower in bathrooms.
  • Policies note fees for valet parking and optional breakfast charges; some rooms allow pets with a fee and restrictions.

Rooms at The Peninsula are detailed toward five-star comfort and classic luxury appointments.

Dining & drinks: neighborhood restaurant vs formal hotel dining

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North – Dining & drinks

Aloft centers dining around Beatrix (neighborhood restaurant), a coffee counter, and the W XYZ lobby bar.

  • Beatrix serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch with vegan options and a casual dress code.
  • W XYZ Bar offers cocktails, live music, and a free billiards table in a loft-style lobby.
  • A 24/7 Re:fuel pantry is available for grab-and-go snacks.

Aloft focuses on casual American dining and a social lobby bar environment.

The Peninsula Chicago – Dining & drinks

The Peninsula lists two restaurants (including Shanghai Terrace) plus a bar/lounge and limited-hours room service.

  • Shanghai Terrace is highlighted as a Chinese cuisine option at the hotel.
  • A coffee shop/cafe and bar/lounge are on site for lighter options and evening drinks.
  • Full breakfasts are available for a surcharge; room service is offered during limited hours.

The Peninsula offers formal dining options and full-service in-room dining consistent with a luxury hotel.

Pools & signature amenity: none vs indoor pool and spa

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North – Pools & signature amenity

Aloft does not have a swimming pool on the property.

  • Google and hotel FAQs confirm 'No pools' and no hot tub.
  • Guest fitness needs are met by the Re:charge Gym (24/7).
  • Guests seeking pool time should plan for off-site options or another hotel.

If an on-site pool is important, Aloft is not the right choice.

The Peninsula Chicago – Pools & signature amenity

The Peninsula includes at least one indoor pool and a full-service spa.

  • Supplier listing notes 'Number of indoor pools - 1'.
  • Full-service spa and spa treatment rooms are listed among amenities.
  • A health club is also available in addition to pool and spa services.

The Peninsula is the clear pick for guests who want on-site pool access and spa treatments.

Wellness & nightlife: 24/7 gym and lively bar vs spa and refined lounges

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North – Wellness & nightlife

Aloft's wellness focus is its Re:charge Gym plus a lively lobby bar for evening socializing.

  • Re:charge Gym is open 24/7, complimentary, and offers yoga mats, free weights, and Life Fitness equipment (reservations required for cardio equipment).
  • W XYZ Bar offers live music and a free pool table in the lobby social area.
  • No on-site spa; Bliss Spa amenities are provided as bathroom products.

Aloft suits guests who want a flexible workout schedule and a social lobby scene.

The Peninsula Chicago – Wellness & nightlife

The Peninsula centers wellness on a full-service spa and a health club, paired with quieter, refined hotel lounges.

  • The supplier listing highlights spa treatment rooms and a dedicated health club.
  • Lounge and bar options are presented in a more formal service context than a lobby bar.
  • Concierge and limo/town-car services support curated city experiences.

The Peninsula is better for restorative spa visits and quieter, service-oriented evening experiences.

Who Wins? Best Pick by Travel Style

Best for pet owners
Hotel lobby with curved check-in desk, fireplace and colorful ceiling at Aloft Chicago Downtown River North

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North

Aloft welcomes dogs (up to 40 lbs) free of charge with pet beds, bowls, and treats included.

Best for spa and pool time
The Peninsula Chicago, Chicago, Illinois

The Peninsula Chicago

The Peninsula offers a full-service spa and an indoor pool — amenities Aloft does not provide.

Best for a lively lobby bar and social scene
Two men talking in the hotel lobby seating area at Aloft Chicago Downtown River North

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North

Aloft's W XYZ Bar features live music, a pool table, and a loft-inspired social atmosphere.

Best for Magnificent Mile location and luxury service
The Peninsula Chicago, Chicago, Illinois

The Peninsula Chicago

The Peninsula sits on the Magnificent Mile with concierge, limo/town-car options, and formal five-star service.

Frequently asked questions

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North vs The Peninsula Chicago: FAQs

See all FAQs →
Which hotel is better if I want a pool?

The Peninsula has an indoor pool; Aloft Chicago Downtown River North does not have any pool on site.

Can I bring my dog to either hotel?

Aloft welcomes dogs up to 40 lbs free of charge with pet perks; The Peninsula allows pets only in specific rooms with a pet fee (supplier listing notes a pet fee of USD 350 per pet, per stay, with service animals exempt).

Which property is closer to Magnificent Mile shopping?

The Peninsula is on the Magnificent Mile; Aloft is a few blocks away in River North—both are within easy walking distance of Michigan Avenue shops.

Do either hotel offer spa treatments?

The Peninsula offers a full-service spa with treatment rooms; Aloft provides Bliss Spa–branded bath amenities but does not operate an on-site spa or treatment menu.

Two men talking in the hotel lobby seating area at Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
Book your stay

Free Wi‑Fi & 24/7 Re:charge Gym

  • Lowest rate guarantee
  • Complimentary perks & upgrades
  • 24/7 concierge
Offer terms

Price comparison & offer terms

These terms apply to the price comparison, Lowest Price Guarantee, free perks and concierge service shown on this site.

How we compare rates

The nightly rate shown is the lowest nightly rate we found for Aloft Chicago Downtown River North after searching every available night up to 12 months in advance, based on single occupancy (one guest). We compared that rate with publicly available rates on other online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Expedia, Hotels.com and similar sites, and show the price difference we found. We don't name the specific site each comparison came from.

Rates and availability change constantly. The rate for your dates, room type and number of guests may be different. The full price, including taxes and fees, is shown before you confirm.

Lowest Price Guarantee

Free perks & upgrades

24/7 concierge

General

BookResorts may change or end these offers at any time. These terms are in addition to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not affiliated with Aloft Chicago Downtown River North.

Legal

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Please read these Terms carefully. They contain important information about limitations of our liability and the resolution of disputes through binding arbitration and a class action waiver (Section 16), and our right to change these Terms (Section 18).

1. Acceptance of these terms

These Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”) govern your access to and use of BookResorts and any booking you make through us. By using the site or making a reservation, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use the site.

2. Definitions

“We,” “us,” and “our” refer to BookResorts, operated by SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. “You” refers to the person using the site or making a reservation. A “Supplier” or “Travel Provider” is the hotel, resort, or other provider that supplies the travel services. “Travel Services” means the room stays and related services made available through us. “Content” means text, descriptions, images, reviews, and other material on the site.

3. Who we are

BookResorts is an independent online travel agency that acts as an intermediary between you and Suppliers. We are not a hotel, and we are not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any hotel or brand featured on the site. When you book, your reservation is made with the Supplier through us as agent.

4. Eligibility & use of the site

You must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority where you live) and able to enter a binding contract. You agree to use the site only to make legitimate reservations for yourself or for someone you are authorized to act for, to provide accurate and complete information, and to inform any other traveler of the terms that apply to their reservation.

5. Bookings & confirmation

All reservations are subject to availability and to the rate rules, restrictions, and policies shown at the time of booking. A reservation is confirmed only when you receive a confirmation from us. You are responsible for reviewing the rate rules (including cancellation terms) before you book.

6. Prices, fees, taxes & currency

Prices are shown in the currency indicated and include applicable taxes and fees unless stated otherwise; the total is displayed before you confirm. Our price may include a service fee and may differ from the rate offered directly by the Supplier. Currency conversions, where shown, are estimates. Certain taxes or resort fees may be collected by the Supplier at the property.

7. Cancellations, changes & refunds

Each rate carries its own cancellation policy, shown before you book (for example, non-refundable, or refundable up to a stated deadline). Refund eligibility and timing follow the policy attached to the rate you select. Service fees may be non-refundable. Failure to check in (“no-show”) may result in forfeiture of the amount paid, per the rate rules.

8. Your responsibilities

You are responsible for having valid identification and any required travel documents (such as a passport or visa), and for complying with the Supplier’s policies, including minimum check-in age, occupancy limits, deposits, and identification requirements. You are responsible for the accuracy of all guest information you provide.

9. Suppliers & third-party services

Suppliers are independent third parties. We are not liable for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, or negligence of any Supplier, or for the quality, condition, or safety of the travel services they provide. Any dispute regarding your stay or the services delivered is between you and the Supplier. Supplier terms and policies apply in addition to these Terms.

10. Third-party links

The site may contain links to third-party websites provided for your convenience. We do not control and are not responsible for those sites, and a link does not imply endorsement. Your use of any linked site is at your own risk and subject to that site’s terms.

11. Intellectual property

The site and its Content (excluding third-party trademarks) are owned by BookResorts or its licensors and are protected by law. Hotel names, logos, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used only to identify the property being booked. You may not copy, scrape, or reuse any Content without permission.

12. Prohibited conduct

You agree not to use the site for any unlawful or fraudulent purpose; not to make speculative, false, or fraudulent reservations; not to use automated tools to access or scrape the site; and not to interfere with the site’s operation or security.

13. Reviews & user content

If you submit reviews or other content, you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute it in connection with our services. You are responsible for what you submit, and we may remove content at our discretion.

14. Disclaimers

The site, its Content, and the travel services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis, without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, including as to accuracy, availability, or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that listings, prices, or descriptions are error-free.

15. Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, BookResorts will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of or connected with your use of the site or any booking. If we are found liable, our total liability will not exceed the greater of (a) the fees you paid to BookResorts for the booking at issue, or (b) US$100. This limitation reflects the allocation of risk between us.

16. Dispute resolution

We want to resolve any concern quickly and fairly. Before pursuing a formal claim, you agree to first contact our support team at 888-605-1350 or support@bookresorts.com and give us 60 days to resolve the matter informally. If we are unable to resolve it, any dispute will be handled by the state or federal courts located in California, as set out in Section 17 (either party may still bring qualifying claims in small claims court).

17. Governing law & venue

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, USA, without regard to conflict-of-laws rules. Any permitted court action will be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California, and you consent to their jurisdiction.

18. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. The version in effect at the time of your booking applies to that booking. Your continued use of the site after changes take effect means you accept the updated Terms.

19. Force majeure

We are not responsible for any failure or delay caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, government actions, or Supplier closures.

20. Miscellaneous

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions stay in effect. Our failure to enforce a provision is not a waiver. These Terms are the entire agreement between you and us regarding the site.

21. Contact

Questions about these Terms or a reservation? Call our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350.

Legal

Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains how BookResorts collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal information when you use our site or make a booking. For the purposes of applicable data protection law, the data controller is SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. (operating as BookResorts).

1. Information you provide

When you search, book, or contact us, we collect information such as your name, email, phone number, billing and payment details, the names and details of other guests, your travel dates and preferences, and the content of your communications with us.

2. Information we collect automatically

When you use the site, we automatically collect technical and usage data such as your device and browser type, IP address, approximate location, pages viewed, referring URLs, and interactions with the site, using cookies and similar technologies.

3. Information from other sources

We may receive information about you from Suppliers, business partners, fraud-prevention services, and (if you choose to connect one) social media platforms.

4. How we use your information

We use your information to process and manage bookings; communicate with you about reservations; provide customer support; personalize your experience; send marketing where permitted (with the ability to opt out); analyze and improve the site; prevent fraud and secure our services; and comply with legal obligations.

5. How we share your information

To complete a booking, we share necessary details with the relevant hotel and room Suppliers and with payment processors. We may also share information with service providers who support our operations, with advertising and analytics partners, with our corporate affiliates, in connection with a business transfer, with authorities where required by law, and with your consent.

6. Cookies & tracking

We use essential, performance, functional, and advertising cookies and similar technologies. You can manage non-essential cookies through your browser and through our cookie settings. For more detail, see our Cookie Policy.

7. Your privacy rights

Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict the use of your personal information, to data portability, and to opt out of marketing.

EEA/UK (GDPR): You may access, rectify, erase, restrict, or object to processing of your data, withdraw consent, and lodge a complaint with your local supervisory authority. We process data based on your consent, the performance of a contract, our legitimate interests, and legal obligations.

California (CCPA/CPRA): You may request to know, delete, or correct your personal information, and limit the use of sensitive personal information, without discrimination. We do not sell or share your personal information as those terms are defined under California law, so no opt-out is necessary. To exercise any of your rights, contact us at support@bookresorts.com; we verify requests before responding.

8. Data retention

We keep personal information for as long as needed to provide our services and to meet legal, tax, accounting, and dispute-resolution obligations.

9. Security

We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

10. International transfers

Your information may be processed in countries other than where you live. Where required, we put appropriate safeguards in place (such as standard contractual clauses) for those transfers.

11. Children’s privacy

The site is intended for adults and is not directed to children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without appropriate consent.

12. Third-party links & social features

The site may contain links to, or features from, third-party services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties; please review their policies.

13. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The “last updated” date above reflects the current version, and we will provide notice of material changes where required.

14. Contact us

Questions or privacy requests? Reach our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350 or by email at support@bookresorts.com.

About BookResorts · Independent since 1993

A better way to book your hotel

BookResorts is a full-service, independent travel agency connecting travelers to unforgettable stays since 1993. Detailed hotel information, competitive all-in rates and 24/7 concierge support, all in one place.

Est. 199330+ years
100K+Hotels & resorts
200+Countries
24/7Concierge
This is not the official website of Aloft Chicago Downtown River North. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Aloft Chicago Downtown River North or its parent brand.

Why travelers choose BookResorts

Best available rates

We compare rates from top suppliers. Taxes and fees included, no hidden charges.

100,000+ hotels & resorts

200+ countries and 2,000+ cities, from all-inclusives to boutique stays.

24/7 concierge

Real travel specialists to build, change or help with your reservation anytime.

Full transparency

Honest details on every property: rooms, amenities and policies.

Trusted since 1993

Three decades as a full-service, independent travel agency.

Secure & protected

Every booking is handled securely and your information is protected.

How booking with us works

Questions about a reservation? Our team is here 24/7 at 888-605-1350.
Full details in our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Lowest Price + Free Perks

UsOthers
Nightly rate
Price guarantee✓
No hidden fees✓
Perks & upgrades✓
24/7 concierge✓
Check availability

vs. sites like Expedia, Hotels.com and other OTAs ·

Book by phone888-605-1350
Book nowLowest rates Call usAvailable 24/7
Photo viewer