Chicago's Hidden Gem: Best Western PLUS Hillside Review (You WON'T Believe This!)

Best Western PLUS Chicago Hillside United States

Chicago's Hidden Gem: Best Western PLUS Hillside Review (You WON'T Believe This!)

Chicago's Hidden Gem: Best Western PLUS Hillside Review (You WON'T Believe This! - Seriously!)

Okay, buckle up, buttercups! I’ve just returned from a stay at the Best Western PLUS Hillside – a place that, frankly, surprised the heck out of me. I went in with low expectations (it's a Best Western, right?), figuring it'd be your standard, perfectly-fine-but-forgettable experience. Boy, was I wrong. This place is a…a thing. A good thing. Let's dive in, shall we?

First Impressions & Accessibility (Because, Let's Be Real, I Care!)

Right off the bat, accessibility seemed pretty good. I'm not in a wheelchair myself, but I noticed elevators (always a plus) and, from what I could see, decent access to the parking [on-site], which is free of charge – music to the ears of any Chicagoan! The exterior corridor might not be everyone's cup of tea (it's not exactly a luxury hotel vibe), but it does mean easy access to your room. They also offered facilities for disabled guests, which I appreciated seeing listed.

Rooms: My Fortress of Solitude (with a Few Quirks)

Alright, the room. My room! It was… surprisingly spacious. And clean! (More on that later.) Features? Well, you got the basics -- air conditioning, a desk, a coffee/tea maker (essential!), and a refrigerator (score!). A high floor view wasn't exactly the Burj Khalifa, but hey, it’s Hillside, not Dubai. They do have interconnecting room(s) available, which is great for families. And I loved the blackout curtains. Slept like a freakin' log. But here's the thing: the slippers were a bit too… slippery on the bathroom tile. Almost went down like a cartoon character! 😂 Also, the mirror had a few smudges. Perfection is overrated, right? Especially with the all-important free Wi-Fi in the room! I'm talking about Internet access – wireless, baby! The internet access – LAN caught my eye too! (I never used it, but good to know!)

Cleanliness & Safety: A Relief in These Times

This is where the BW Hillside REALLY shines. I’m a bit of a germaphobe, so I was relieved to see they were really on top of things. Rooms sanitized between stays, check. Anti-viral cleaning products, check. Daily disinfection in common areas, check. They even had hand sanitizer everywhere. I really appreciated the staff trained in safety protocol. Felt solid. The security [24-hour] and CCTV in common areas & outside property made me feel safe. Oh, and the fire extinguisher and smoke alarms? Always a good sign.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Because, Fuel!)

Okay, food. This is where the "hidden gem" part really kicks in. They offer a breakfast [buffet]. Now, buffets can be a gamble. But this one was shockingly good! I’m talking Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, the whole shebang. Bacon perfectly crispy, eggs… well, eggs. And real coffee. They had a little coffee shop too (lifesaver!). There's also a snack bar, and a bar – all important. I didn’t see any of the listed Asian cuisine in restaurant or restaurants (other than the buffet) however. The poolside bar looked tempting, but alas, the pool was closed during this trip. Which was a bummer. Still, the bottle of water in the room was a win.

And the big surprise? Room service [24-hour]! I didn’t use it, but knowing it was there was comforting.

Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Sadly, Missed Out!)

This is where I have a tiny bit of regret. The Fitness center was open (but I skipped it, obviously), and they listed options like Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, and Steamroom. Sadly, I didn't get to try any of these. Next time! The swimming pool and swimming pool [outdoor] were a total tease because, you know, closed season.

Services & Conveniences: Beyond the Expected

They went above and beyond! The concierge was super helpful with directions (I got lost, a lot), and the front desk [24-hour] was always there. Daily housekeeping, yay! They even offered dry cleaning, laundry service, and ironing service. They had a convenience store too, in case you forgot your toothbrush (or your emergency chocolate stash, which, let's be honest, it's not just me!). Then there are the big guns! They offer air conditioning in public area, cash withdrawal, currency exchange, elevator, luggage storage, and safety deposit boxes. They have a business center with Xerox/fax.

For the Kids (Family Friendly, Indeed!)

This place seems geared towards families. They mention Family/child friendly, a babysitting service (important!), and Kids meal. I didn't have any kids with me, but I kept thinking how it would be a great option.

Getting Around (Easy Peasy)

Car park [free of charge]. Enough said. Airport transfer should you need it, and taxi service. They also have Bicycle parking.

The Little Things (Making a Difference)

They had essential condiments in the breakfast area, which always warms my heart. Having a safe dining setup and sanitized kitchen and tableware items. The staff trained in safety protocol gave a reassuring vibes, and professional-grade sanitizing services, made me feel secure. And, the staff was just…nice. Friendly, helpful, and actually seemed to care.

The Anecdote That Seals the Deal… And My Slightly Embarrassing Moment

Okay, confession time. Remember those slippery slippers? Well, I emerged from the shower, ready to conquer the world, when BAM! I lost my footing and did a full-on, slow-motion swan dive. Luckily, I landed on the oh-so-cushy carpet! (Thankfully, the towels were soft and absorbent, so, well, I quickly dried things up). My point? Even with the slightly imperfect slippers, and the almost-wipeout, it was a funny highlight in a stay that I will cherish. The staff even asked if I was OK! I did get to keep the extra bathrobes!

My Final Verdict & Why You NEED to Book This Place

Look, it's not the Ritz. But the Best Western PLUS Hillside is a solid, clean, surprisingly comfortable, and genuinely friendly place to stay. The price is right. The location is convenient. The staff is fantastic. And the breakfast, well, let’s just say you won't leave hungry. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a hub. A genuine gem.

Here's my Persuasive Offer to Get YOU to Book:

Tired of cookie-cutter hotels that leave you feeling…meh? Crave a Chicago experience that's both comfortable and affordable?

Book your stay at the Best Western PLUS Hillside NOW and enjoy:

• Free Parking & Free Wi-Fi! (Save money, stay connected)
• A Clean and Safe Environment! (Relax and enjoy your stay with confidence)
• A Surprisingly Delicious Free Breakfast! (Fuel your Chicago adventures!)
• Friendly staff who will make you feel like family! (Authentic Chicago hospitality)
• Easy Access to All the Chicago Hotspots! (Perfect for exploring!)
• And… (Don't tell anyone!) A chance to slip on the bathroom tile, (maybe!)

Special Offer: Book within the next 72 hours and receive a complimentary… (drumroll please!)… extra-large coffee mug to enjoy your coffee in style! (While supplies last!)

Don't delay! This Hidden Gem is waiting for you! Click here to book your Chicago adventure at the Best Western PLUS Hillside today!

(Click Here To Book Now! – INSERT AFFILIATE LINK HERE!)

Indonesian Paradise: Your Private Pool Villa Awaits!

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Alright, buckle up, buttercups! This ain't your perfectly Instagram-filtered travel itinerary. This is my Chicago Hillside whirlwind, and it's going to be delightfully messy. Prepare for emotional rollercoasters, questionable decisions, and the occasional existential crisis fueled by lukewarm coffee.

Day 1: Arrival & Oh God, I Need Coffee Now (and Maybe a Nap)

• 6:00 AM: Ugh. The alarm. Why do I do this to myself? Arrive at Chicago O'Hare (ORD). The airport is the size of a small country. My luggage, bless its heart, is already threatening to revolt after the flight. Find the shuttle to the Best Western PLUS Chicago Hillside. It's supposed to be easy. It's never easy.
• 7:30 AM: Finally at the Hillside hotel. The lobby is…well, it's a lobby. Standard. Check-in is a blur. I'm pretty sure the woman at the desk could tell I haven't slept in 12 hours. She probably gives this look to everyone.
• 8:00 AM: The room… it has a bed! And a strange, vaguely unsettling piece of art on the wall. My first thought? Coffee. Hotel coffee. Which I know is a gamble but it's all I have. It's… tolerable. Survival fuel. I also crash on the bed for a glorious 30 minutes.
• 9:00 AM: Okay, regroup. Time to find some actual, decent coffee. I’m thinking a little drive to a local cafe.
• 9:30 AM: I get lost. Like, really lost. Hillside seems easy on the map but trust me, Google Maps lies. Finally, a friendly (and possibly judging) gas station attendant points me in the right direction. This is Chicago, right? Shouldn't everyone have the vibe to "be somewhere else"?
• 10:30 AM: Triumph! Found a little coffee shop with actual beans and a vibe that isn't "corporate." I order a latte and stare out the window, feeling a sense of something close to… contentment. Maybe this trip won't be a complete disaster.
• 11:30 AM: Okay. The initial goal: a little walk around the area and scope out the place. That's it. But wait…
• 12:00 PM: I stumble upon a small, independent bookstore and my life is over. Forget the original plan. I'm browsing. I'm touching books. I'm experiencing the sheer, unadulterated joy of not being on my phone. I pick up a book on Chicago history (I want to fit in, you know?). A little kid stares at me while I read. This is not the place to stay.

Day 2: Deeper Chicago: The Long Drive, the Deep Dish, and Emotional Overload

• 8:00 AM: Coffee (from the cafe, because priorities). The hotel breakfast? No. Just, no.
• 9:00 AM: Today is a road trip. The goal? Deep Dish pizza and a dose of "real" Chicago, away from the suburban bubble. This I can get behind.
• 9:30 AM: Start to drive. The traffic is. well, it's Chicago traffic. I'm pretty sure someone is honking at me for breathing wrong.
• 11:00 AM: Finally arrive at the pizza place, Pequod's. People said it was good. It's a hole in the wall. And you know what? It's totally worth it. The caramelized crust is pure genius. I think I shed a single tear of joy. It's that good.
• 12:00 PM: I get into the city. The architecture is incredible. I drive through a few neighborhoods. I try to get a feel for the place. I get overwhelmed. I feel like I am not good enough to be here.
• 1:00 PM: I had planned on a museum, but I'm full of pizza and deeply emotional about how beautiful the city is and how small I am. I need to sit in a park and watch the cars drive by.
• 4:00 PM: Back to the hotel for a nap. I wake up at 6pm and feel much better.
• 6:00 PM: Decide to go out for a quick bite.
• 7:00 PM: I find a local diner in the area. The food is filling and I have nothing left.
• 8:00 PM: Head back to the hotel. I turn on the tv and crash.

Day 3: Last Day Blues & The Flight Home (And the Dread of Real Life)

• 8:00 AM: Final coffee, trying to savor it. Because soon, it'll be back to lukewarm office coffee. Woe is me.
• 9:00 AM: I try to check out and the service is slow. I have a flight and cannot wait.
• 10:00 AM: Final drive through the area. I take pictures. I smile.
• 11:00 AM: Back to the airport, the line is long. I keep moving.
• 1:00 PM: Head home.

Final Thoughts:

Chicago was overwhelming. But it was also beautiful, delicious, and full of unexpected moments. And now, to go back to real life. Until next time, Chicago.

Indonesian Paradise: Your Cozy 1BR Haven (IR43A) Awaits!

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Okay, spill it. Is the Best Western Plus Hillside REALLY a hidden gem? Because my expectations are currently set to "skeptical."

Alright, alright. Let's be honest. "Hidden gem" is a *strong* statement, right? I get it. My initial reaction upon seeing it was, "Best Western? Hillside? Sounds...forgettable." But here's the thing. *I was wrong*. Utterly, completely, hilariously wrong. Now, is it the Ritz? Absolutely not. Is it a perfectly manicured sanctuary with butler service? Nope. But for the price, the location – and the *unexpectedly charming vibe* – it seriously surprised me. Consider me converted. Consider my jaded travel soul... pleasantly surprised.

What's the *deal* with the location? Seriously, Hillside? Sounds... suburban.

Okay, look, it's not downtown Chicago. It’s *technically* a suburb. BUT (and this is a BIG but, folks), it's SO close to everything! We’re talking a short train ride into the city – like, seriously, you can practically smell the deep-dish pizza from the hotel! And the train station? Practically around the corner. We walked there with our luggage. And for someone who enjoys a bit of peace and quiet after the sensory overload of Chicago... pure bliss. You get the convenience *without* the insane hotel prices or the constant hustle. Plus, there's a decent diner nearby. Need I say more? (Okay, maybe I’ll say more later…)

Let's talk about the rooms. Are we talking "motel chic" or something more... appealing?

"Motel chic" is a *fair* assessment, but it's a *good* motel chic. Let me paint you a picture. Clean. Seriously clean. (This is a major win in my book, I’m a bit of a germaphobe). The bed was comfy. Actually, *really* comfy. I fell asleep IMMEDIATELY. And isn't that the most important thing? I’ve stayed in swanky hotels with beds that felt like sleeping on a park bench. This one... it was good. The bathroom? Standard. Adequate. Perfectly functional. No complaints. Okay, I do have one... the water pressure in the shower was a *little* weak, but it's the only negative I can think of. (And I’m being nitpicky).

What about breakfast? Free breakfast is always a gamble. What's the verdict?

Okay, so the free breakfast. THIS is where things get... interesting. It’s not a gourmet buffet, mind you. Don't expect artisanal croissants and fresh-squeezed orange juice. But here's the thing: it's perfectly acceptable. They had the usual suspects: scrambled eggs (pretty decent, actually), sausage, waffles (that you can make yourself!), cereal, bagels, fruit… Coffee? Honestly, the coffee was *surprisingly* good. Better than some of the fancy coffee shops I've been to. And, this is important, they kept it stocked. I've been to places where the coffee runs out at 8 AM and you're SOL. Here? Always coffee. A small victory, but a victory nonetheless. You're getting value for your money; I’m a simple man with simple needs, and they were met.

Okay, but what about the staff? Good service is EVERYTHING.

The staff? Honestly, they were *phenomenal*. Truly. Friendly, helpful, genuinely seemed to care. This is huge! I’ve stayed in places where the staff acted like you were interrupting their day just by breathing. Here? They were attentive without being intrusive. They were helpful with directions, recommendations (that diner I mentioned? They pointed me in the right direction!), and even gave us some extra towels when we asked. They genuinely seemed to want to make your stay enjoyable. Made a HUGE difference.

Were there any *actual* downsides? Dish the dirt. We’re not afraid.

Alright, alright. Here's the thing: no hotel is perfect. Yeah, the water pressure in the shower I mentioned, but other than that... I'm grasping at straws here. Okay, the gym. Let's call it... basic. It had some equipment, but it wasn’t a state-of-the-art fitness center. But seriously, I wasn’t expecting a luxury spa. Honestly, the only real "downside" (and it's not even a big one) is that the elevators took a bit longer than usual. And sometimes, the internet... the internet could be a little... spotty. But, I managed to survive (and post my Instagram stories, obviously, priorities!). Honestly, it's hard to find real fault, given the price and the overall experience.

Let's drill down on one thing... That diner nearby. Is the food *actually* worth it? Did you go? TELL ME EVERYTHING!

Oh, the diner. *Yes*. I went. Multiple times. And let me tell you, it was a *highlight*. You get real, authentic, greasy spoon goodness. This is the stuff of legends. The kind of place where the waitress calls you "honey" and refills your coffee before you even ask. The pancakes were fluffy, the bacon was crispy, the hash browns were *divine*. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it. One morning, I went in there, completely exhausted after a long day of sightseeing, and ordered a massive plate of eggs, bacon, and pancakes. Utter heaven. I swear, it was the best breakfast I had the *entire trip*. No pretense, just good, honest food. The prices were ridiculously reasonable (seriously, how do they do it?!), the atmosphere was friendly, and the portions were massive. You could tell it's a local favorite, bustling with people. This diner alone made the whole experience worth it. If you stay at this hotel, you MUST go to that diner. It's a must. My stomach is growling even now. Trust me, you won't regret it. Forget the fancy restaurants, this is the real deal.

So, bottom line: Would you recommend it? Or is this just a "one and done" situation?

Absolutely, unequivocally, YES. I would 100% recommend the Best Western Plus Hillside. Especially if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on comfort or convenience. Seriously. I’d go back in a heartbeat. It’s not perfect, but it’s charming, it’s comfortable, the staff is great, and the location is excellent. And the diner… oh, the diner. Seriously, book it. Before I do.

Any advice before booking?

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