I'm going to be in Chicago over Easter weekend (taking in a couple of tours through the Chicago Architecture Foundation and doing some museum-hopping; sadly, the Cubs are not in town) and am trying to decide between these two hotels. They're virtually across the river from each other as far as I can tell, so the locations are practically identical. I'm a Marriott Silver member and (recently dropped back to) a regular SPG member. Which hotel is more likely to offer rooms that give a good river view? Which is quieter? Which has better rooms? Which has a better concierge staff (for restaurant recommendations, etc.)? There's only a $7 difference in price, so that factor is essentially equal. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.

Having only stayed at the Ren, I can't offer any comparisons, but really like the Ren. As a Marroitt silver I was upgraded on one stay a couple years ago. You can probably get more details on both hotels in the Marriott and Starwood forums.

You're correct that they are right across the river from each other. The Renaissance is much newer and occasionally appears on some "best of" lists. Since I'm a local, I have not stayed at either, but have visited the Renaissnace and found it to be quite nice and the river views, if you are lucky enough to get one, are spectacular. Even the second floor bar has a good view. It is also a bit closer to most of the things you plan to visit.

I've stayed at the Westin, but have been to the Ren several times.

I'd pick the Westin:

(1) It's 5 minutes less of a walk to the bars and restaurants in River North. Conversely, the Ren is in the Loop -- which is pretty much dead at night. (Yes, a 5 minute walk isn't huge -- but it's just a consideration.)

(2) If you're on the east side of the Westin, you can also get a nice lake view.

I've stayed at the Westin, but have been to the Ren several times.

I'd pick the Westin:

(1) It's 5 minutes less of a walk to the bars and restaurants in River North. Conversely, the Ren is in the Loop -- which is pretty much dead at night. (Yes, a 5 minute walk isn't huge -- but it's just a consideration.)

(2) If you're on the east side of the Westin, you can also get a nice lake view.

OTOH, the OP said that (s)he was doing Architecture Foundation tours and museum hopping. So, the 5 minute walk swings the other way. ;) Actually, the Loop isn't that dead anymore. The "Ren" is in the theatre district (Wicked at the Oriental, the Goodman and Chicago Theaters are all within a block or two) and close to several decent restaurants - 312 Chicago, Atwood Cafe, Petterino's, Catch 35, South Water Kitchen, Heaven on Seven.

Thanks for the info. Looks like I can't go wrong either way. I think I'll go with the Renaissance. I'm staying at another Renaissance later this month, so will get bonus Marriott points under their Stay Two promo. I know that there's also an SPG promo for staying in Chicago, but I need some Marriott stays to retain silver status.

I've stayed at both...a few years back now. Westin probably had nicer rooms overall, Ren. probably better property. I was Marriott Plat., so I got upgraded. Still like the Westin rooms, though. Because of earnings pref., I went back to Ren.

Ren, without doubt.

I've stayed at both (at the Westin River North also when it was the Nikko). The Ren definitely has bigger rooms than those at the WRN, and it also offers a Club Level, which the WRN does not (IIRC).

Also, don't forget another option, the eclectic Loews House of Blues, directly across Dearborn Street from the WRN.

I just checked out of the Westin. It was just Ok. I would try the Ren next time.

I stayed at the Renaissance for Easter. Although I had a great view of the river, Wacker Drive and the Marina Towers, I was a little dissapointed because the pool and fitness center were closed for renovations.