Why Best Western Plus Hillside Is the Perfect Chicago Marathon Hotel
If you’re coming to Chicago for the Big Race and looking for a “Chicago Marathon Hotel,” choosing the Best Western Plus Hillside offers a winning combination of value, convenience, and comfort. Here are the top advantages you and fellow runners will appreciate — and how staying with us beats staying downtown.
Advantages of Staying with Us
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More Affordable Rates Than Downtown Hotels
Downtown hotels often come with sky‑high price tags, especially during major events like the Chicago Marathon. At Best Western Plus Hillside, you get comparable quality — clean rooms, good amenities, friendly service — for a much lower nightly rate. That means more budget for pre‑race carbs, race gear, or celebrating your finish. -
Free Parking – For Any Size Vehicle
One less thing to worry about: we offer free parking for guests, no matter the size of your vehicle. Big rigs, SUV’s, vans of runners — you won’t have to pay extra or hunt for scarce street spots. Arrive relaxed, park with ease, and focus on race day. -
Convenient Location
We’re strategically positioned to offer both proximity and peace. You’re close enough to downtown and the race‑start area to get there without huge travel time, yet far enough that you avoid much of the central‑city congestion and higher costs. It’s a sweet spot for runners who want quick access to expo, start line, and post‑race celebrations without the premium downtown hassle. -
Comfortable Accommodations + Amenities
After putting in miles of training (or running the full 26.2!), you’ll value a comfy bed, reliable WiFi, good breakfast options, maybe even in‑room perks like a microwave or refrigeration for your nutrition. Best Western Plus Hillside delivers all that, of course with the kind of friendly service that makes you feel supported. -
Stress‑Free Pre & Post Race Experience
With free parking, less traffic, easier check‑in/check‑out, you save precious pre‑race hours — no circling for parking, no long lines, minimal last‑minute logistics. And afterward, when you just want recovery and rest, our hotel is an oasis compared to navigating busy downtown transit or crowds.
Key Marathon Weekend Events You Can Join or Attend
If you’re in town for the Marathon (October 12, 2025) Bank of America Chicago Marathon, there are several associated events that build up excitement, help you prep, or make the most of the weekend:
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Runner Expo & Packet Pick‑Up – Usually at McCormick Place. You’ll grab your bib, get gear, check out vendors and sponsors.
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Shake‑Out Runs & Warm‑Ups – Light group runs in the days before the marathon to loosen up muscles.
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Pop‑Up Shops – Brands often have merchandise pop‑ups around town so you can pick up race gear, fun shirts, or accessories.
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Chicago Marathon 13.1 / Half‑Marathon & Distance‑Series Events – For many runners, this includes the Shamrock Shuffle 8K, Chicago 13.1, etc. Bank of America Chicago Marathon
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Post‑Race Celebration & Finish‑Line Festivities – After you cross that finish line, enjoy the energy at Grant Park and surrounding areas: food, cheering, music, medals and memories.
In Summary: Why We’re the Right Call
If you’re searching for a true Chicago Marathon Hotel, the Best Western Plus Hillside delivers where it counts: affordable cost, free and easy parking, excellent location, and a restful stay so you can focus on your performance. Stay with us and begin the race weekend right — with one less thing to worry about, you’ll have energy to spare on the course.