Hotels

Question

I have asked before but am really having a hard time deciding on Rui plaza or Millennium knickerbocker for 5 nights Oct 2nd.

1st time to Chicago for husbands suprise 50th.

Not a lot of reviews on Rui as relatively new. Need safe and central.

Please advise!!!!

BA sale ends at midnight!

Answer

Both the Rui Plaza and Millennium Knickerbocker are great options, each offering different experiences, but they are both in safe, central locations that will put you in close proximity to many Chicago attractions. Here's a breakdown of each to help you decide which may be best for your husband's surprise 50th birthday trip:

Riu Plaza Chicago

Riu Plaza is a newer addition to the Chicago hotel scene, so there may be fewer reviews, but it’s gaining attention for its modern amenities and great location. Here are some points to consider:

Location: It’s located near the Magnificent Mile, a prime shopping and dining district, so you’ll have easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions like the John Hancock Center and Water Tower Place. It’s also a short walk to Millennium Park and Navy Pier.
Modern & Fresh: Being a newer hotel, it offers modern decor, clean lines, and up-to-date amenities like a fitness center and rooftop bar. The rooms are spacious and designed with comfort in mind.
Vibe: It’s a larger, more tourist-centric hotel with all the amenities you’d expect from a chain hotel, including free Wi-Fi and a good breakfast offering. The staff is generally praised for being friendly and helpful.
Safety: The location is very safe, and the hotel has good security features. Being near the Magnificent Mile, this area is well-trafficked, making it feel safe, especially for tourists.

Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago

The Millennium Knickerbocker is a more historic property and offers a charming, classic Chicago experience. It has a unique architectural style with more of a traditional hotel feel. Here are some considerations:

Location: Also located near the Magnificent Mile, but it’s closer to the River North neighborhood, which has a trendy, artsy vibe and is just a short walk from the Chicago River, which you can enjoy on a river cruise.
Historic Charm: The Millennium Knickerbocker offers a classic, vintage style that will make you feel like you're stepping into old-world Chicago. It has a unique, storied history, which adds a bit of character to the stay.
Vibe: The hotel has a more boutique feel, with a cozy, intimate vibe, which could be great for a special occasion like a surprise birthday. The interior is elegant, with art deco influences, and the hotel is known for its quality service.
Safety: The area is safe and is also centrally located, with easy access to public transport, restaurants, and attractions. The hotel has security features and is located in a well-traversed part of downtown, so it’s a good area for tourists.

Which One to Choose?

If you're looking for a more modern, vibrant atmosphere and don’t mind being in a larger, newer hotel, Riu Plaza might be the way to go. It’s fresh, with great facilities, and offers easy access to Chicago’s shopping and dining scene.

If you prefer a more classic and charming Chicago experience, with a smaller, more intimate feel, the Millennium Knickerbocker is a solid choice. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a more "Chicago-esque" experience with historic appeal and a cozy ambiance, perfect for a special celebration.

Both are in safe, central locations with easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and major attractions. You can’t go wrong with either, but it really comes down to whether you prefer a more modern, larger hotel or a classic, boutique-style experience.

Good luck with your decision, and I hope your husband’s 50th is a memorable one!