12/10/07

An OK hotel, but definitely undeserving of four stars

by jeffatuofl

This is a decent BASIC hotel. Don't come here expecting the four-star service touted in the promotional materials for this property, though. The room I had, 3316, faced south with a great view of the lake and Millennium Park. This view is soon to be spoiled by a high-rise being built immediately south of the Swissotel.

The room is basic with what looks to be c1985 hotel furniture that has definitely seen its better days. It is fairly clean, but cannot give it high marks for housekeeping (dirty bedskirt, a not-totally-clean bathroom on check-in, etc.). Walls seem quite thin. Can hear people on both sides as well as a lot of chatter through vent in the bathroom.

The restaurants on premises are very expensive (the Palm restaurant is $25+ per entree). Room service is equally expensive. A candy bar from the honor bar = $4. Bottle of water from the honor bar = $6. The gift shop is very pricey for sundries (I forgot deodorant -- stupid move -- and got a very small size of Sure for $5.44).

The upside is that the CTA buses run right outside the hotel (some can also be caught a block away at Michigan and Wacker). Check-in was friendly and efficient. It isn't the most conveniently located property, but certainly an easy walk to the hub of Michigan Mag Mile shops and The Loop.

Paid $99 through Hotwire. Would not wanted to have paid a lot more for this hotel. Most sources rate it at four stars. Most three-star hotels I've used in Chicago provided a higher level of comfort and amenity.

• Pros: Decent views. Efficient staff.
• Cons: Worn, dated rooms. Noisy.

09/03/04

European superiority and excellent city views.

by Contributor

The Scene
This hotel's decor manages to be both modern and warm at the same time, with a chic limestone-floored lobby and cool, inviting colors throughout. Rounded walls in the corridors add a nice note.

The Details
All guest rooms have marble baths and separate, glass-enclosed showers. Some suites have a half wall and some steps to separate the bedroom from the living area--this set-up gives the illusion of space and privacy. The sofas in the suites are sleek but soft, recalling old-fashioned daybeds. Business travelers will find all the conveniences they need, and for foreign guests, there are staffers fluent in many languages, from Japanese to Hindi. The Palm restaurant fits in nicely in the hotel's overall classy setting. The exercise facilities and swimming pool area are large and well done, with stunning, unobstructed views of the city skyline from their 42nd-floor perch.

07/24/02

Wonderful Swissotel, Not like Atlanta

by sushibushi2

Received a great value through Quickbook.com,

The hotel is beautiful and the staff will help you unlike the Atlanta Swissotel. Definitely one of my Favs.

• Pros: great hotel