Everyone who visits this hotel is blown away, though even some of its neighbors don’t know it exists. Many discover it because it is one of the most affordable stays in the area, though it offers much more than your typical, cookie-cutter hotel experience.

On the edge of downtown Evanston near public transportation, this hotel is great if you’re in the area to visit Northwestern University or do some things in Chicago. Check it out:

Hidden by the trees of Evanston’s leafy Oak street, the Margarita European Inn is the most charming and cozy hotel in the city.

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Best recognized by the flags flying outside its windows, the hotel’s history goes back further than you’ve been alive.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn Built in 1927, the hotel was named for Margaret O’Leary - the first woman to hold residence in Evanston. Originally the Margarita Club for Working Women, the building was a home for business women working in nearby Chicago. It didn’t become a hotel until 1989 and has since undergone several renovations to make it the charming, boutique hotel it is today.

Visitors are at first blown away by the grand parlor which features antique furniture and furnishings, as well as a baby grand piano.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

Up just a few stairs sits a homey library which houses over 100 old books. Enjoy an evening with your family here or get some quiet time to yourself.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

Be warned that the library is rumored to be haunted. Watch out for Miss O’Leary.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

There is also a rooftop deck you can use to enjoy your morning coffee and meditation, or use it for late night cocktails.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

A presence has been felt in some of the hallways too, so hurry up the winding staircase or vintage lift elevator to your room.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

There are many types of rooms to choose from with bed sizes between twin and king. Prices start at about $150 per night.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

The grand parlor is where you’ll enjoy breakfast. The hotel also allows intimate gatherings anytime as well as pre-planned parties in this beautiful room.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

Enjoy true French pastries such as croissants and pain du chocolate for a breakfast you don’t have to go all the way to Europe to get.

Wikimedia/Luc Viator

Bring a mug, use a mug. Coffee and tea is available all day, and you must choose from a selection of “ugly” mugs left by residents over the years.

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

The Margarita European Inn is located at 1566 Oak Ave in Evanston, and you can make reservations or get more information by visiting this website.

Google Maps

Facebook/Margarita European Inn

Built in 1927, the hotel was named for Margaret O’Leary - the first woman to hold residence in Evanston. Originally the Margarita Club for Working Women, the building was a home for business women working in nearby Chicago. It didn’t become a hotel until 1989 and has since undergone several renovations to make it the charming, boutique hotel it is today.

Wikimedia/Luc Viator

If you love fun and interesting places to stay the night, check out this themed hotel in the middle of nowhere in Illinois!

Have you stayed with the Margarita European Inn? Tell us about your visit in the comments!

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