
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
Best for a casual downtown stay with lively bar, easy access to River North nightlife, and a pet-friendly policy.
Prices in other currencies are estimates. You’re charged in USD.
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North is a casual, music-and-nightlife–focused downtown hotel best for travelers who want a lively, budget-conscious River North base. Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago is a high-profile 5-star riverfront luxury tower for travelers who want river views, a full spa, and traditional upscale service.
Updated · about 0.6 km apart

Best for a casual downtown stay with lively bar, easy access to River North nightlife, and a pet-friendly policy.

Best for travelers seeking classic 5-star riverfront rooms, an on-site full-service spa, and an indoor pool.
When Aloft wins: Choose Aloft Chicago Downtown River North if you want a more casual, budget-friendly River North stay with an energetic lobby bar (W XYZ), a neighborhood restaurant (Beatrix), and a 24/7 gym — plus flexible family- and dog-friendly policies.
When Trump wins: Choose Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago if you want a formal luxury experience with river and city views from a high-profile tower, on-site spa services, an indoor pool, and larger-room variety suited to business or upscale leisure stays.
Bottom line: Aloft is the practical, social, pet- and family-friendly downtown pick; Trump is the traditional, full-service luxury choice on the Chicago River. Pick based on whether you prioritize nightlife and value (Aloft) or riverfront luxury, spa, and pool access (Trump).
| Category | Aloft Chicago Downtown River North | Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Overall vibe | Casual, music-and-nightlife oriented | Formal, 5-star riverfront luxury |
| Location (neighborhood) | River North, on N. Clark Street near Magnificent Mile | Downtown Chicago, on the Chicago River (401 N Wabash Ave) |
| Distance between properties | about 0.6 km to Trump International | |
| Size (rooms) | 272 rooms | 339 guestrooms |
| Ages / family policy | All ages welcome; minimum age to check in: 21 | |
| Pools | No pool on site | Indoor pool on site |
| Restaurants & bars | Beatrix (restaurant & coffee counter), W XYZ Bar (lobby bar), Re:fuel pantry | Terrace 16 (restaurant), a bar/lounge, 24-hour room service |
| Spa & wellness | No on-site spa; complimentary 24/7 Re:charge Gym | Full-service spa, sauna, fitness center |
| Business & meeting space | About six meeting rooms and the River Room (≈1,900 sq ft); ~3,000–3,700 sq ft total | Conference space, meeting rooms and ballroom (extensive event facilities) |
| Accessibility & practical | LEED Certified, free Wi‑Fi, 24/7 business center, pet program (dogs up to 40 lbs free) | Free wired & wireless internet, concierge, valet/self parking (fees), multilingual staff |
Aloft sits on N. Clark Street in River North, a few blocks from the Magnificent Mile and close to the Chicago Riverwalk.
Aloft is a straightforward River North base for dining, nightlife, and shopping.
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago sits directly on the Chicago River with easy access to the Riverwalk and Michigan Avenue.
Trump is the eye-catching riverfront option for views and formal downtown access.
Aloft's rooms are modern and designed for convenience with three named room types.
Aloft's rooms are efficient, contemporary, and geared toward social travelers and families.
Trump offers many room types, including deluxe city and river-view rooms and suites.
Trump has a broader range of room categories and river-view options for upscale travelers.
Aloft's on-site dining focuses on a neighborhood restaurant and a lively lobby bar.
Aloft works well for casual meals, coffee, and evening drinks in a social setting.
Trump's food options lean toward formal dining, in-room dining, and a bar/lounge.
Trump suits guests who prefer formal dining, room service, or quieter hotel dining.
Aloft does not have a pool; its signature social spaces are the lobby lounge and rooftop garden.
If a pool or spa matters, Aloft isn't the right pick — its focus is social public spaces instead.
Trump offers a full-service spa and an indoor pool as part of its leisure amenities.
Trump is the better choice for guests wanting an on-site spa and pool experience.
Aloft pairs a complimentary 24/7 Re:charge Gym with an energetic lobby bar scene.
Aloft is aimed at active travelers who want a social lobby and 24/7 workout access.
Trump centers wellness around a full spa and a quieter, formal lobby and dining experience.
Trump fits guests who want structured wellness services and a more formal evening scene.

Aloft — W XYZ Bar, live music, pool table and a lively lobby atmosphere.

Trump — high-rise river location with many river-view room options and formal service.

Trump — full-service spa, sauna and indoor pool for relaxation and wellness.

Aloft — dogs stay free of charge with perks and the hotel keeps rates and services focused on value.
Aloft markets itself as family-friendly with a kid 'Camp Aloft' pack and family room types; Trump is family-friendly too but is positioned as a luxury tower with larger rooms and suites.
Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago has an indoor pool; Aloft Chicago Downtown River North does not have an on-site pool.
Trump — it offers a full-service spa. Aloft does not have an on-site spa (bath products are Bliss-branded).
Aloft has a documented dog program (dogs up to 40 lbs stay free with perks). Trump’s supplier listing mentions pet fees (USD 125 per pet, per stay) — check the property for current pet rules before booking.
Explore how Aloft Chicago Downtown River North stacks up against other hotels nearby:
vs. sites like Expedia, Hotels.com and other OTAs ·