Coincidentally, I think I have stayed at that Residence Inn. You will probably take 72nd to Dodge, and turn right onto Dodge. Once on Dodge get into the left lane, as the entrance for the Residence Inn isn't obvious. It will be after a small strip mall, and right before what I remember is a office supply store.

The staff there has always been very nice, but the property is showing its age. As far as the drive downtown, I would get directions, but it will probably take you longer to park than to get into the area.

As for restaurants... In the area there, there are quite a few chains, Applebees, Chicago Pizza, and a few others. If you want some nicer places, there is a place called Mahogany, which is a fairly pricey steak house. Right near it is place called Chester-something, which is a more reasonable place. Both have good food.

Also I haven't been there, but http://losolemio.com/index.htm is a highly recommended place from a friend of mine. In haymarket, there is a brewpub that is down the road from the Courtyard, which is pretty good.

Sorry the directions and names aren't great. I used to end up there a lot and drove by feel after a while...