Two relatively new hotels in Chicago deliver distinctly different experiences for visitors, each reflecting its neighborhood and design priorities.
In 2022, The Emily Hotel Chicago opened in Fulton Market, the former 19th-century meatpacking district that has transformed into a trendy, gentrified corner of the West Loop. After acquiring the former ACE Hotel for $63 million, The Emily’s ownership rebranded the property, remodeled large portions of the building, and introduced two notable dining venues, shaping an eclectic, design-forward hotel. Situated directly across from Google’s Chicago office, the 159-room property quickly established steady occupancy through the transition and remains a lively hub for both travelers and locals.
Selva © The Emily Hotel
The hotel’s first culinary addition was Selva, a seventh-floor rooftop restaurant and bar that blends lush plantings and Latin American flavors with skyline views. Selva serves craft mezcal cocktails, hosts live music and overlooks an outdoor cinema on a terrace below, creating a lively evening atmosphere when weather allows.
At street level, Fora followed as an all-day dining destination with inviting indoor and outdoor seating. Open from early breakfast through late-night dining, Fora offers a fresh, Tulum-inspired menu centered on ceviches and other contemporary Mexican dishes. Signature cocktails highlight the hotel’s spirit program, such as the Fora Margarita, a house daiquiri, and the Maestro—a balanced mix featuring the hotel’s single-barrel Dobel tequila alongside Campari, Luxardo, Amaro Montenegro and Peychaud’s bitters.
© The Emily Hotel
The Emily’s name honors Canadian painter Emily Carr and reflects the hotel’s commitment to art and creative programming. The property runs an artists-in-residence program that influences room furnishings, murals and even room-key designs, making art an integral part of the guest experience. The hotel functions as a neighborhood gathering spot where guests, local artists, musicians and nearby tech workers converge.
Positioned as upscale yet approachable, The Emily combines careful curation with a relaxed vibe, pairing urban style with natural touches. Sustainability is a priority, and the hotel emphasizes a fresh experience through thoughtfully designed lifestyle spaces, including a speakeasy on the first floor and regular creative programming.
© Level Hotels & Furnished Suites
By contrast, Level River North Hotel & Furnished Suites opened in mid-2021 as a 31-story glass tower in River North, just a short drive from Fulton Market. The property offers 99 units plus a penthouse and leans toward apartment-style accommodations designed for both short stays and longer-term residents. River North’s arts-and-design scene, nightlife and dining options make the location ideal for guests seeking an elevated, residential hotel experience.
Level River North’s amenities cater to extended stays and work-focused travelers: a modern fitness center, dedicated co-working spaces, a glamorous Cloud Lounge on the 31st floor and a spacious outdoor pool. Additional outdoor areas support BBQs and gatherings, while multiple indoor and outdoor meeting spaces accommodate private events. The building maintains 24/7 security and service levels suited to multi-night and long-term guests.
© Level Hotels & Furnished Suites
For guests staying a few nights or months, Level River North offers furnished and unfurnished studios and one- to three-bedroom apartments, designed with lifestyle conveniences included at no extra charge. The property’s proximity to Chicago landmarks and cultural destinations makes it practical for guests balancing work and leisure.
Both hotels reflect contemporary hospitality trends in Chicago—The Emily emphasizes art-driven, community-oriented programming and lively dining, while Level River North focuses on residential comfort, extensive amenities and flexible stays—giving travelers clear choices depending on whether they prefer a social, art-forward boutique experience or an apartment-style hotel with comprehensive services.