Pet policy and traveling with dogs at Aloft Chicago Downtown River North
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North welcomes dogs under its 'Arf' program: one dog per room, up to 40 lbs, stays free with no deposit, and the hotel supplies pet beds, water bowls, and treats. Cats are not permitted; check-in requires an adult at least 21 years old.
In this guide
Summary of the pet policy
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North allows dogs through its 'Arf' pet program. The hotel does not charge a pet fee or require a deposit.
Policy highlights are simple and consistent across the hotel's guest information and FAQs, but always confirm any final details with the front desk before arrival.
- Maximum: 1 dog per room
- Maximum weight: 40 lbs
- No deposit required; no nightly pet fee listed
- Cats are not accepted
| Topic | Policy |
|---|---|
| Allowed animals | Dogs only (cats not permitted) |
| Number per room | 1 dog |
| Weight limit | Up to 40 lbs |
In-room amenities for dogs
When you arrive with a dog the hotel provides complimentary pet items placed in the guest room. These typically include a pet bed, a water bowl, and treats as part of the Arf program.
Rooms at the property are sold under three names: Room; Room, City View; and Room, City View (Windows on 2 Sides). The pet amenities are delivered into whichever room you book.
- Pet bed included
- Water bowl included
- Treats provided
| Room type | Notes about pets |
|---|---|
| Room | Dog amenities provided in-room |
| Room, City View | Dog amenities provided in-room |
| Room, City View (Windows on 2 Sides) | Dog amenities provided in-room |
Lobby, restaurants and public areas
The hotel's public areas include the W XYZ Bar and Beatrix restaurant and a lively lobby social lounge. The property’s published materials confirm pet-friendly programming for dogs but do not list every public-area restriction.
If you plan to bring your dog into public spaces such as the lobby or restaurant, ask the front desk or Beatrix staff on arrival for the hotel's current rules about leashed dogs in those areas.
- W XYZ Bar is a lobby-level social space with a pool table and live music
- Beatrix is the on-site restaurant and coffee/pastry counter (hours vary)
- Confirm any leash or seating limits with the front desk or restaurant before bringing a dog into public spaces
| Venue | What to check on arrival |
|---|---|
| Lobby / W XYZ Bar | Ask whether leashed dogs may sit in the lounge area |
| Beatrix (restaurant) | Confirm current policy for dogs in the dining area |
| Common areas / hallways | Follow front desk guidance on leash and cleanup |
Nearby dog-friendly walks and exercise
Aloft Chicago Downtown River North sits on North Clark Street in River North, a few blocks from the Chicago Riverwalk and close to many sidewalks and small parks suitable for short walks. The hotel location makes it easy to step out for exercise and bathroom breaks.
For longer off-leash areas, city off-site dog parks or other green spaces are available across Chicago; the hotel staff can point you to the nearest dog park or veterinarian on request.
- Quick walks: streets around River North and the Chicago Riverwalk
- Ask the front desk for recommended pet-walking routes or nearby parks
- Plan for downtown foot traffic and leash your dog in busy areas
| What | Note |
|---|---|
| Chicago Riverwalk | A few blocks away — handy for short walks along the riverfront |
| Street-level sidewalks | Good for quick bathroom breaks and short exercise |
| Hotel front desk | Can advise on nearby parks, vets and pet services |
Practical tips for traveling with your dog
Reserve the room type you want (Room; Room, City View; or Room, City View (Windows on 2 Sides)) and note your dog on the reservation so the hotel can prepare pet amenities. Check-in requires a guest aged 21 or older to present a valid card for guarantee.
Because this is an urban hotel, bring familiar items for your dog (blanket, toys) and plan for street-level traffic and busy sidewalks when you walk your pet.
- Inform the hotel in advance that you’re bringing a dog so staff can prepare the pet bed and bowls
- Bring waste bags and clean up after your dog in public areas
- Keep your dog leashed in public spaces unless told otherwise by staff
- Confirm check-in and late-arrival arrangements with the 24/7 front desk if you’ll arrive very late
| Before arrival | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Note dog on reservation | Ensures pet amenities are ready in your room |
| Pack familiar items | Helps your dog settle in quickly in an urban setting |
| Confirm arrival time with front desk | Front desk is staffed 24/7 and can assist with late arrival details |
Rules to confirm at check-in
While the hotel's core pet rules are published, some operational details (for example, whether dogs are accepted in specific dining areas on a given day) can change. Always check current guidance at the front desk when you arrive.
Also confirm the required credit-card guarantee and the hotel's check-in time of 3:00 pm and check-out time of 12:00 pm (noon).
- Reconfirm: 1 dog per room, up to 40 lbs
- Ask whether your dog may accompany you into the lobby or Beatrix that day
- Verify any additional temporary rules (cleaning or noise-related) before settling in
| Hotel detail | Published fact |
|---|---|
| Check-in time | 3:00 pm |
| Check-out time | 12:00 pm (noon) |
| Minimum age to check in | 21 years |
