Chicago Disers? I need your help with Chicago Marathon hotels

[princessmomma]

I currently have the the Westin on Michigan avenue ($249) and the Westin River North ($229) reserved for October 20-22nd marathon weekend, but my roommate wants to save some money and try and find a cheaper hotel.

Could I stay someone nice that won't break the bank and have easy assess into the downtown for the race start?

Do you have any suggestions? I was told you MUST be downtown to experience the whole race experience. Is this true?If so, which Westin would be better?

 

[Beth76]

I personally would prefer the location of the magnificent mile. But that's just generally based on being in Chicago. I have no idea how that would factor in terms of the marathon. As far as saving money, Westins are kind of pricey hotels. You might want to look into a not-as-nice hotel.

Would you be interested in using priceline. I'm sure you could get a much better rate. I believe you can limit your area specific to "River North" and also "North Michigan Ave".

 

[princessmomma]

Would you be interested in using priceline. I'm sure you could get a much better rate. I believe you can limit your area specific to "River North" and also "North Michigan Ave".

Thanks Beth,

Yes, I use Priceline all the time. I bid up to $120, no go. I thought it is too far ahead right now. I will try again every so often for the next few months. My friend got a room on Hotwire for $121, but that hotel is no longer listed. Most rooms on Hotwire are $150 ++.

Yes, the Westins are expensive. The rates I quoted are "marathon group rates". The rates on the Westin website for that weekend are over $500!