Best hotels for RSNA 2020 with in-room work desks
For radiology professionals travelling from Australia, a hotel room at RSNA 2020 needed to function as more than a place to sleep. A proper desk, dependable Wi-Fi, comfortable lighting and enough space for a laptop, headset and documents could make long conference days considerably easier.
RSNA 2020 was scheduled for 29 November to 4 December 2020 in Chicago, with accommodation options spanning practical three-star properties and full-service five-star hotels. The following choices focus on work-friendly rooms, straightforward access to McCormick Place and the needs of individual delegates, teams and visiting medical groups.
| Hotel | Work-from-room suitability | Access | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyatt Regency McCormick Place | Dedicated desk or work surface in many rooms; confirm room layout | Connected to the convention centre | Delegates prioritising convenience |
| Marriott Marquis Chicago | Modern rooms with a useful work area in selected categories | Beside McCormick Place | Teams and group bookings |
| Hilton Chicago | Comfortable rooms and business facilities; desk availability varies | Short taxi or public transport ride | Delegates wanting a central city base |
| Hyatt Regency Chicago | Business-oriented rooms and strong connectivity | Near the Riverwalk and Loop | Longer stays and city access |
Hyatt Regency McCormick Place for the shortest commute
The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place is the most practical choice for delegates who want to move between a room and the scientific programme with minimal travel. Its connection to the convention complex is particularly useful during cold Chicago weather, when walking outdoors with a laptop bag and conference materials can be unpleasant.
Room categories can differ, so a desk should be requested during booking rather than assumed. Ask for a room with a full-size work desk, an accessible power outlet and reliable in-room internet. This is a strong option for Australian radiologists attending early sessions or returning to work in the evening.
Marriott Marquis Chicago for teams and room blocks
The Marriott Marquis Chicago suits departments, practices and professional delegations that need several rooms close together. Its position beside McCormick Place makes it easier to coordinate arrivals, informal briefings and shared transport without sending everyone across the city.
For a team booking, specify the same room standard for every participant and request work desks in writing. A group coordinator can also ask whether meeting rooms, printing facilities and late checkout are available. These details matter when a delegation is splitting time between presentations, research meetings and remote administrative duties.
Hilton Chicago for a central downtown base
Hilton Chicago offers a more traditional city-centre experience, with access to Grant Park, the Loop and a broader range of restaurants. It is suitable for travellers who want a comfortable business room while staying closer to downtown attractions rather than directly beside the exhibition venue.
Desk design and room dimensions may vary across categories, so delegates should avoid relying on photographs alone. Confirm the work surface, chair type, Wi-Fi arrangements and number of power points. For Australians adjusting to Chicago time, a proper desk can help separate conference work from the bed and make late-night email sessions less disruptive.
Hyatt Regency Chicago for longer stays
Hyatt Regency Chicago is a useful option for delegates extending their trip beyond the meeting dates. Its location near the Chicago River provides access to restaurants, shops and transport connections, while business facilities support people who need to remain productive between sessions.
A longer stay makes storage and comfort just as important as the desk itself. Request a quiet room away from lifts, ask about a mini-fridge and check whether the hotel can provide an ergonomic chair or additional lamp. These small details can make a difference for anyone attending several consecutive days of scientific presentations.
Choosing a desk-ready room
A work desk should be large enough for a laptop, charger, notebook and coffee without forcing everything onto the bed. Before confirming a reservation, ask whether the room includes a fixed desk, a proper chair, high-speed Wi-Fi and convenient electrical outlets. Some hotels describe a small console or occasional table as a workspace, which may be unsuitable for a full working day.
Australian travellers should also check the total price in Australian dollars, including taxes, resort-style charges and foreign transaction fees. US hotel rates are generally displayed in US dollars, and the final card charge can shift with exchange rates. If a team is paying centrally, obtain a written statement covering deposits, cancellation dates, breakfast and incidental holds.
Planning around Chicago winter and local time
Late November and early December in Chicago can bring freezing temperatures, wind and occasional snow. Pack a proper winter coat, waterproof shoes and layers rather than relying on the lighter clothing commonly used in Sydney, Brisbane or Perth. A hotel connected to McCormick Place can be worth the extra cost when the weather turns rough.
Chicago is generally 17 hours behind Australian Eastern Daylight Time during this period. A 9 am session in Chicago falls in the early hours of the following morning in Sydney or Melbourne, so Australian delegates working with home offices should plan calls carefully. A quiet desk, blackout curtains and a clear sleep schedule are valuable practical features.
For flight routing, airport transfers and broader trip preparation, Australian delegates can consult this travel planning guide alongside their hotel arrangements. Allow extra time for customs, winter traffic and possible delays when travelling from O’Hare or Midway.
Transport, venue access and group coordination
McCormick Place is south of central Chicago and is served by taxis, rideshare services and public transport. Staying nearby reduces daily transfer time, while a downtown hotel may provide more dining and sightseeing choices. The right balance depends on whether the priority is immediate venue access or a broader city experience.
Delegations should arrange airport pickup and daily movements before arrival, particularly when several people have bulky luggage or presentation equipment. A private shuttle plan can simplify coordination for teams arriving on different flights. Australian groups often find a pre-booked transfer easier than organising several separate rides after a long international journey.
The official venue details should be checked for the relevant entrance, programme information and access arrangements. Room blocks should be matched with the confirmed event schedule, since the most convenient property may differ for exhibitors, speakers and general attendees.
Reserve the most suitable room category with a confirmed desk, dependable Wi-Fi and a written cancellation policy. For individual delegates, a venue-adjacent hotel can protect valuable time; for practices and departments, an organised room block can keep the whole group together while controlling costs. Build the booking around work requirements first, then add transport, meals and Chicago sightseeing around the schedule.