My husband and I enjoyed 2 nights at this charming european inn tucked in downtown Evanston. Upon arrival my husband and I were warmly greeted by Kathryn who welcomed us by using our first names, a very special and memorable gesture of hospitality, and her personal attention made us feel like we truly had "come home". Our corner mini suite was pretty and sunny and included a spacious sitting area as well as an updated, charming bathroom. A light breakfast was available in a lovely grand room providing an elegant way to start each day and our overall stay was a fantastic way to end 2011.

We came to town for a football game, the weekend was a win/win! This hotel was perfect to go to Ryans Field. Loved the parlor for continental breakfast. We had room 316, queen with a private bath and it was fantastic, comfy bed, extremely clean bathroom and ceiling fan. The room did get warm but the fan was helpful. The hospitality was more than expected and the hotel had authentic charm. The neighborhood was safe and easy to get to downtown Evanston which has alot to offer, we took the purple line up 2 or 3 stops to get to the game. If we come back, we are staying at this same hotel. We paid more for the private bathroom but it was well worth it. I'm not sure about the other less expensive rooms but we were very very happy with our stay. Plus our team won the game, great weekend!

Highest marks go for the room price compared to other surrounding properties. Without my kids along, a pool wasn't essential, and I simply needed a place to stay after a friend's reunion. It was a miserably hot day and the inn was sweltering, but my tiny room was pleasantly cool due to a ceiling fan, little a/c floor unit, and another fan perched on top. The water receptacle on the a/c overflowed by the following morning, but the staff quickly cleaned up the water. I definitely broke a sweat trying to use the bathrooms (one shower, 2 stalls on the 5th floor). I don't know how many rooms had private baths, but I never ran into anyone in the restroom. The bathrooms were clean, but very old. The common areas were beautifully appointed, but it had the air of an elderly relative's home...a little threadbare, but smelling of history! The front desk was amazingly accommodating (thank you, Kathryn Weimer) to the questions of every guest - a personal concierge for an eclectic group of guests. The continental breakfast was quite adequate; coffee, o.j., oatmeal, fresh fruit, an assortment of muffins, breads, and sweet rolls. Getting ice required a trip all the way to the lobby (hot stairs or old-fashioned gated elevator) where a tiny ice machine sat. European Inn is aptly named...it is a youth hostel for adults!

The Margarita is a former women's boarding house converted into a B&B-flavored hotel. The place is old, but spotlessly clean. Sort of a hostel for grown ups!

Privacy & smaller quarters are what you trade for an inexpensive, walk-ably convenient hotel in this beautiful college town! The staff (hosts?) are attentive & helpful, and continental breakfast is included. We'll certainly be returning to the Margarita.