Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago

This hotel stands out as a new and modern property, celebrated for its exceptional breakfast buffet and a stunning rooftop bar that offers impressive city views. Its prime central location makes it an ideal choice for sightseers and couples looking to explore the city on foot, with many major attractions and shopping areas within easy reach. Families also find it suitable due to its convenient access to city highlights and the comprehensive breakfast. To make the most of your stay, guests often recommend arriving early for breakfast to avoid peak crowds and being aware of the hotel's policy regarding complimentary bottled water, as it is limited.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts a highly praised rooftop bar that offers breathtaking city views and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for guests to unwind. A well-equipped fitness center is available, providing ample equipment for workouts. The lobby bar offers a relaxed setting with a good drink menu for those seeking a more intimate space. While free Wi-Fi is provided, some guests have reported issues with slow speeds or difficulty connecting. Some reviews indicate a lack of readily available ice machines on every floor or a limited supply of ice, and there is no on-site convenience store to purchase snacks or additional bottled water, requiring guests to seek these items off-site.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel's impeccable cleanliness throughout the property and within the rooms. The comfortable beds and soft pillows contribute to a restful night's sleep, and the spacious bathrooms are often highlighted for their modern design and amenities like double sinks and magnifying mirrors. However, a frequently mentioned concern is the low water pressure in the showers, which some guests found insufficient for a comfortable experience. While many rooms are described as quiet, some visitors noted noise from closing room doors or adjacent rooms. Additionally, some guests experienced difficulty adjusting the room temperature, finding the rooms too warm, and noted the absence of a traditional comforter or extra blankets.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet is overwhelmingly praised as a standout feature, often described as exceptional, extensive, and one of the best many guests have experienced in the United States. It offers a wide variety of hot and cold options, fresh fruits, and is efficiently managed by attentive staff despite often being busy and somewhat chaotic during peak hours. While the quality and selection are highly rated, some guests noted that the food options do not change daily. The rooftop bar also offers a selection of good drinks and appetizers. However, the hotel does not offer room service for meals, and guests are generally not permitted to take food or beverages from the breakfast area back to their rooms.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous popular attractions, including Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier, and various shopping and dining establishments. Its walkability makes it convenient for exploring the city's core, and it is well-connected to public transportation options like the 'L' train and buses, providing easy access to other parts of the city. However, parking is a notable challenge, as the hotel does not have its own garage. Guests must use nearby public parking facilities, which can be expensive, difficult to navigate, and sometimes involve issues with payment systems.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receives high praise for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating, contributing positively to the guest experience. Many guests highlighted the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to assist with various requests. The service in the breakfast area is particularly noted for its efficiency and attentiveness. However, there are recurring instances of mixed feedback, with some guests reporting less friendly or even rude interactions at the front desk, particularly concerning early check-in requests or specific hotel policies. Some also noted that staff occasionally seemed overwhelmed or lacked clarity in their communication.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of a destination fee or resort fee charged nightly, which covers certain amenities and services that some guests felt were not clearly explained upon booking. The hotel's policy regarding complimentary bottled water is limited, with guests typically receiving only one or two bottles for their entire stay and being directed to refill stations or advised to purchase additional water. The hotel utilizes a keycard system for elevator access to guest floors, which enhances security but can sometimes lead to crowded elevators or minor inconveniences. The property is frequently described as new and modern, contributing to its overall appeal.