Essex hotel guide. Highgate Independent hotel in Essex, Chicago

"The hotel was in a great location, and the lobby and public areas were well maintained. The room was pretty dirty and moldy, but got the job done. The rooms are very tiny, like 100 or so square feet, so it’s also pretty cramped. They do however book to 18+, whereas most chicago hotels are 21, hence my reason for staying. Overall okay price for a great location, but small and dirty room, but if you are over 21, choose a better deal. ($600 for 3 nights in May)."

"The 12o'clock check out was wonderful and staff very helpful."

"Screams BAIT AND SWITCH to me. Checking-in mid afternoon, my three non-refundable rooms that I booked through Hotels.com were unavailable (understandable at a busy downtown hotel on a Friday). We checked bags at front desk and were assured we could check-in after our concert. First red flag, guests in line behind me were able to successfully check-in. Frustrating, but I thought maybe it was because I had multiple rooms. Returned at 11:30pm and the staff brings up my reservation and tells me that they have NO ROOMS AVAILABLE, but they will move our reservations to their sister property of Hilton Garden Inn nearby. I won't bother commenting on the series of unbelievable issues that followed at the other hotel, but it was 2am before I was in a room. Staff at Embassy Suites were very apologetic, but no one ever offered a single explanation as to how this could have happened. I've never had issues using third party booking sites, but this experience definitely will make me second guess using Hotels.com again."

"It was a nice hotel clean room comfy beds. Definitely would stay here again for the price"

"Basic but clean hotel with a good location, you’re clearly paying for the spot. However, the bathroom design is a major downside. It’s too minimalist and impractical; the shower is cramped for tall guests and water leaks everywhere."

"I didn’t like the TV app, but everything else was perfect!"

"Staff was wonderful. Great location for exploring the city!"

"Staff was very friendly!"

"Clean and quite. Good location. ."