There are only 3 hotels in Evanston, the third is the Hilton Garden Inn. Public transit in Evanston is very good and if you don't want to rent a car, you can take the purple line train from Davis or Church Street to Noyes, then it's only about a 4 block walk east to the NU campus.

You can also catch the 201 bus on Church St in downtown Evanston which then goes north on Sheridan Road. The fare is $2.00 one way.

If you decide to go to downtown Chicago, you can also take the purple line to Howard, then transfer to the red line. For transit maps, schedules, a trip planner and other information, check transitchicago.com

If you have time, I'd also recommend taking the train north to Linden. Two blocks east of the station is the Baha'i Temple. It's a wonderful building that overlooks Lake Michigan.

The closest hotels that you're going to find are the Orrington, Best Western University Plaza, and a Hilton Garden Inn. The Orrington is adjacent to the University and the Hilton Garden is three blocks away. I wouldn't recommend the BW University Plaza-it doesn't get very good reviews and is a mile away from the campus. The Hilton Garden Inn is an excellent hotel that would be a good choice. I would highly recommend the Hilton Garden Inn. It is in an ideal location and is the newest hotel in the area.

If you need to get rest before your tournament, I wouldn't recommend the Hilton Garden Inn. It is right next to the Metra (commuter rail) tracks and a block from the El (elevated train) tracks. I had booked two nights there once and had to leave after the first night because it was impossible to sleep due to the train noise.

Another, more reasonable and personal option to consider is the Margarita Inn, which is about a block south and two blocks west of the Hilton. The Homestead Inn on Hinman is another more intimate choice.

The Homestead Hotel in Evanston is another nice choice. It is a boutique hotel that was built in the 1920s. They are very traditional in style and are Northwestern's recommended lodging provider. The staff is VERY friendly and helpful. www.thehomestead.net