We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

The James Chicago: Traveler Reviews

4.5 of 5
55 East Ontario, Corner of Rush and Ontario, Chicago, IL 60611
Hotel website
Hotel deals
Hotel amenities
Special Offer
Package Deal
The James Chicago
Ranked #21 of 164 hotels in Chicago
Enter dates & see best prices*
Show Prices
*from our partners
Write a Review

1,111 reviews from our community

Traveler rating
    672
    320
    66
    35
    18
See reviews for
Families
116
 
Couples
452
 
Solo
97
 
Business
224
 
Rating summary
  • Location
    5 of 5 stars
  • Sleep Quality
    4.5 of 5 stars
  • Rooms
    4.5 of 5 stars
  • Service
    4.5 of 5 stars
  • Value
    4.5 of 5 stars
  • Cleanliness
    4.5 of 5 stars
Date Rating
simocrates
Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
4 hotel reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
5 helpful votes 5 helpful votes
“James, Will You Marry Me?”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 12, 2012

This place is so good at courting their guests. They think of so many great details that make this place feel homey and comfortable. Unlike most stuffy hotels where the air is stale and the rooms smell/feel strange, The James does all the right things to make you fall hard.

They leave cookies on your bed, water by your bedside, and a comfortable robe in time of need. The bathroom products are divine, the hallways smell great and you can even open your window for some fresh air.

The lobby is super cozy and they have hot chocolate around the clock when it's cold outside, fresh juice in the summer. They have a great gym with fully functioning machines and TVs. Also, the prices are generally affordable if you book far enough in advance.

If they keep this up, I could certainly develop a lifelong relationship with The James.

  • Stayed December 2012, traveled on business
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Ask simocrates about The James Chicago
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Abel06, Director of Rooms at The James Chicago, responded to this review
December 13, 2012
Dear simocrates, Thank you for taking the time to write such a wonderful review about your recent stay at The James Chicago! We are flattered and truly humbled to hear that our amazing staff and attention to detail won you over. We also very much hope that your experience does develop into a longterm relationship. Thank you again for your review and we look forward to your next stay!
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Lansing, IL
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
“Mother Daughter Christmas Weekend”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 12, 2012

We stayed at the James for our first annual mother-daughter Christmas weekend. We could not have been happier with our choice. The service, their employees, our room and general atmosphere were all 'impeccable'. We couldn't have made a better choice and decided we will keep this place for our next weekend out. This was everything and MORE than I could have ever hoped for. We highly recommend staying at The James, which by the way, is located perfectly for shopping, Kris Kringle Market, Theatre...etc.

Room Tip: Make your reservations early, so that if upgrades are available you DO get them. We got 2 upgrades...
See more room tips
  • Stayed December 2012, traveled with family
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by Kathy M for Chicago
Ask Kathy M about The James Chicago
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Abel06, Director of Rooms at The James Chicago, responded to this review
December 13, 2012
Dear Kathy M, Thank you for taking the time to write about your recent stay with us at The James Chicago! We are truly honored by your kind compliments of our impeccable staff and that you chose us for your mother/daughter weekend. We are thrilled that you will stay with us again, and I hope that your first annual Christmas weekend becomes a tradition. Thank you again and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Butlerville, Indiana
2 reviews
“Great experience for corporate travelers”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 12, 2012

Every year, we host a corporate Holiday Cocktail Party at Navy Pier. This year we booked a block of rooms at The James Chicago, and all I can say is...we will be back next year! What a fabulous hotel. Every aspect was wonderful; the location, decor, car service, staff, amenities. Everyone we encountered was very helpful and courteous, and the location of the hotel could not have been better for us. I heard nothing but rave reviews from our employees and customers. This is a true gem...can't wait to return!

  • Stayed December 2012, traveled on business
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes
Ask Mindy P about The James Chicago
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Abel06, Director of Rooms at The James Chicago, responded to this review
December 13, 2012
Dear Mindy P, Thank you for taking the time to share about your recent stay at The James Chicago! We are truly humbled that you and your work associates had a wonderful time and that our professional staff made your experience outstanding. We very much appreciate your compliments and especially that you plan on returning again next year. Thank you again and we look forward to seeing you again soon!
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
1 review
“Best hotel stay I can remember”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 11, 2012 via mobile

The best part of the James Chicago was by farthe service. The entire staff was extremely friendly and always willing to help. I would go back I a heart beat and recommend to anyone based on this alone.

  • Stayed December 2012
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes
Ask Jsd33 about The James Chicago
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Abel06, Director of Rooms at The James Chicago, responded to this review
December 12, 2012
Dear Jsd33, Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about your recent stay at The James Chicago. It is truly humbling to hear that this was the was the best hotel experience you have had thanks to our great staff, which is the best compliment that we can recieve. We appreciate your recommendation and hope that we will have the opportunity to welcome you back again soon!
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Hillsdale, Michigan, United States
Senior Reviewer
7 reviews 7 reviews
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
“Wonderful Stay On the Mile”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 11, 2012

The James is in a perfect location for spending time on the Magnificent Mile. The staff are courteous, attentive, and very helpful. They were willing to engage in conversation which made it feel more homey and friendly. Our room (1704) was modern, minimal in decor, but clean and well stocked with above and beyond amenities. The housekeeping staff did a great job. The room is stocked with a great tea pot and Starbucks coffee plus a bottle of purified water on the bed stand. My only negative observation is that there is no mirror in the main room. When my daughter was in the bathroom I had no mirror to get myself ready. Not a huge thing, but would have been nice. The bathroom is modern and very roomy. The towels, robes, shower curtains etc were all bright white and fluffy. They looked new. I appreciated all the thoughtfulness that went in to the amenities. We didn't use anything from the well stocked snack and wet bar (too expensive) but was impressed at all that they provided if you wanted something. Trader Joe' is just across the street if you choose to buy your own snacks and drinks. The fitness room is packed full (a little too packed) with impressive equipment. They provide towels, fruited water, head phones and even fresh fruit and it's open 24 hours which is awesome.. Major newspapers from around the country are provided at the front desk along with fresh brewed coffee and chai apple cider if you want to relax in the lobby. I would have liked to see some decorating for Christmas in the lobby but it didn't take away from our stay. We visited several other hotels and public events to see all the incredible Christmas displays. I would totally stay at the James again.

Room Tip: Ask for a room facing Ontario Street or the top floor so that you get a nice night view.
See more room tips
  • Stayed December 2012, traveled with family
    • 4 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 4 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 4 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes
See 6 more reviews by Laurel S for Chicago
Ask Laurel S about The James Chicago
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Abel06, Director of Rooms at The James Chicago, responded to this review
December 12, 2012
Dear Laurel S, Thank you for taking the time to write about your recent experience at The James Chicago! We are delighted to hear that you had an enjoyable stay with us, and especially that our friendly staff made you feel like you were at home. We appreciate your honest feedback with the mirror in your room and Christmas decorations; we highly value our guests' opinions to continually improve our services and ensure a positive experience. Thank you again for staying with us, and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon!
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel
Great value on a similar hotel
Chicago, IL
4.5 of 5 stars 607 Reviews
Show Prices
Still looking for a hotel?
Highly rated hotels in Chicago
Trendy
Hampton Majestic Chicago Theatre District
Hampton Majestic Chicago Theatre... 4.5 of 5 stars 728 reviews
Family-friendly
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago - Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago - D... 4.5 of 5 stars 898 reviews
Romantic
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Waldorf Astoria Chicago 5.0 of 5 stars 832 reviews
Good for business
ACME Hotel Company Chicago
ACME Hotel Company Chicago 4.5 of 5 stars 269 reviews
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d619615?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_Style_Xsell
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d111486?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_Style_Xsell
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d1516481?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_Style_Xsell
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d247154?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_Style_Xsell
Travelers also viewed these Chicago hotels
Palomar Chicago, a Kimpton Hotel 4.5 of 5 stars 1,216 reviews The Talbott Hotel 4.5 of 5 stars 789 reviews Conrad Chicago 4.5 of 5 stars 1,625 reviews Sofitel Chicago Water Tower 4.5 of 5 stars 1,540 reviews
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d1566945?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_AlsoViewed_Hero
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d87654?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_AlsoViewed_Hero
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d217498?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_AlsoViewed_Hero
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d236299?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_AlsoViewed_Hero
View all 164 hotels in Chicago, ranked by popularity

Been to The James Chicago? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Additional Information about The James Chicago

Also Known As:
James Chicago Hotel
James Chicago Hotel Chicago
James Hotel Chicago
Chicago James Hotel
Address: 55 East Ontario, Corner of Rush and Ontario, Chicago, IL 60611
Phone Number:
Region: United States > Illinois > Chicago
Amenities:
Bar/Lounge Business Center Fitness Center Free High-Speed Internet Pets Allowed Restaurant Room Service Suites Wheelchair access
Hotel Style:
#14 Luxury Hotels in Chicago
#17 Business Hotels in Chicago
#24 Family Hotels in Chicago
#31 Romantic Hotels in Chicago
Price Range: $$
Hotel Class:4.5 star (4.5*)
Official Description (provided by the hotel):
The James Chicago offers a stylish and engaging alternative for the contemporary business or leisure traveler.The James is ideally situated right in the heart of downtown Chicago, just steps from Michigan Avenue. In addition to its proximity to numerous dining, shopping and nightlife choices along the world famous Magnificent Mile, The James is within easy walking distance of such celebrated cultural attractions as Millennium Park and The Museum of Contemporary Art.To mark its fifth anniversary as one of Chicago's most celebrated boutique hotels, The James Chicago revealed a refreshed look that includes updated furnishings, new environmentally-thoughtful services and a selection of updated in-room amenities. ... more   less 
Reservation Options:
TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Booking.com, Priceline, Expedia, Orbitz, Hotels.com, Tingo, Venere and Travelocity so you can book your The James Chicago reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage The James Chicago, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

  • Manage your listing
The James Chicago
Enter dates & see best prices* (from our partners)
Show Prices