Extended Stay America - Chicago - Skokie

The hotel offers a practical and affordable option for longer stays, with its kitchenette-equipped rooms serving as a key feature for guests seeking self-sufficiency and a home-like environment. It is particularly well-suited for extended-stay guests, business travelers on contract work, and pet owners looking for a comfortable and convenient base. While many guests consistently commend the friendly and helpful staff for their exceptional service and accommodating nature, the overall experience can be mixed, with some expressing concerns about the property's general condition and cleanliness, particularly regarding pervasive odors and pest issues. The hotel's location is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage, providing easy access to local attractions and transportation. To enhance your stay, guests are advised to manage expectations regarding the complimentary breakfast and to confirm specific room amenities upon arrival, as some items may need to be requested from the front desk.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides several practical facilities and amenities designed to support longer stays and enhance guest convenience. Each room includes a kitchenette with a full-sized refrigerator, which is highly appreciated by guests for preparing their own meals and storing groceries. However, many guests report that basic dishware, utensils, and even coffee makers are not provided in the rooms and must be specifically requested from the front desk. A convenient laundry facility is available on-site, accepting both credit cards and quarters, adding to the self-sufficiency of the stay. While Wi-Fi is offered, feedback on its performance is mixed, with some finding it strong and others experiencing slow speeds or additional fees. The building's general condition is frequently described as outdated and worn, with common areas like the elevator often noted for being dirty, having stains, or experiencing mechanical issues.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is highly varied, with many guests expressing significant concerns. A recurring issue is the presence of strong, unpleasant odors in rooms and hallways, described variously as fried food, musty, tobacco, urine, or general staleness. Numerous reviews also report sightings of roaches and, in some isolated cases, bedbugs, leading to considerable discomfort and early departures. Rooms are often described as outdated and in need of renovation, with issues such as sticky floors, stained carpets and sheets, dirty bathrooms, and dusty surfaces. While some guests find the beds comfortable and rooms spacious, others note thin blankets and pillows, and a lack of basic amenities like toilet paper or soap. Noise from thin walls and slamming doors is also a frequent complaint, impacting overall rest.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining and food quality offerings, particularly the complimentary breakfast, receive overwhelmingly negative feedback from guests. Described as "scant," "poor," and a "joke," the breakfast typically consists of very limited options such as packaged muffins, granola bars, and oatmeal packets. Many guests report that coffee is frequently unavailable, of very low quality, or not ready when needed, and there is a general lack of variety, with no fresh items, juice, or milk. This minimal offering often leads to significant disappointment, as guests feel the "breakfast included" claim is misleading and does not meet basic expectations. Furthermore, there are limited restaurant options within easy walking distance, further highlighting the need for guests to plan their own meals, despite the convenience of in-room kitchenettes.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently praised as a major advantage, offering excellent accessibility to key areas. Situated conveniently off Interstate 94, it provides easy access for travelers and a short drive to downtown Chicago, allowing guests to avoid city taxes and expensive parking fees. The hotel is also noted for its proximity to various shopping destinations, including Old Orchard Mall, and numerous restaurants, although some guests mention limited dining options within immediate walking distance. Ample and free parking is available on-site, which is a significant benefit for those traveling by car. While there is ongoing construction in the surrounding area, guests generally find the location to be safe and well-connected.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel receive mixed, yet often highly positive, reviews. Many guests consistently praise the front desk team for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism, frequently highlighting individuals who go "above and beyond" to assist with requests, resolve issues, and ensure a comfortable stay. Guests appreciate the attentive service and the staff's willingness to address concerns promptly, from providing requested room items to assisting with reservations. However, some guests report negative experiences, particularly during check-in, citing instances of rudeness, unhelpfulness, or significant delays in finding reservations, which can be frustrating after long journeys. Despite these isolated issues, the overall sentiment is that the dedicated efforts of many staff members significantly contribute to a more positive guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several important details that impact their stay. The hotel operates with a limited housekeeping policy, meaning rooms are typically only cleaned after a stay of 14 days or longer, requiring guests to manage their own trash and towel changes for shorter visits. While the hotel is pet-friendly, some guests note challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas for pets. There are also reports of issues with early check-in fees, with some guests finding the charges unexpectedly high or not clearly communicated upfront. The general atmosphere is sometimes perceived differently by guests, with some noting a diverse clientele that can lead to varying levels of noise or a different sense of community than expected in a typical hotel setting.