Swissotel Chicago

This hotel offers a truly memorable experience, distinguished by its breathtaking views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, and Navy Pier, which are consistently highlighted as a signature feature. Guests are frequently impressed by the exceptional service provided by the staff, who are noted for their friendliness and attentiveness. The hotel’s prime location makes it an ideal choice for sightseers and tourists eager to explore the city's attractions on foot, as well as business travelers attending conferences due to its convenient accessibility. For couples, the stunning vistas and comfortable ambiance create a perfect romantic setting. To maximize your stay, consider requesting a room on a higher floor for the best views, and be aware of the additional fees for parking and certain amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities that enhance the guest experience. The fitness center receives high praise for being well-equipped, featuring modern exercise machines including Peloton bikes, and offering spectacular views from its high-floor location. While many guests express disappointment that there is no swimming pool, especially those traveling with children, the comprehensive gym serves as a strong alternative for wellness. The lobby area is frequently described as beautiful and welcoming, often noted for its pleasant scent. Guests also appreciate the efficiency of the elevators, which use a clever system to maximize speed, though they can experience delays during peak conference times. Wi-Fi is available, though some guests note it can be slow.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel for its cleanliness, describing rooms as immaculate and spotless. The spacious rooms are a recurring positive, particularly corner rooms and suites, which offer ample space. Feedback on beds is mixed; many find them comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, while some describe them as less comfortable or firm. Bathrooms are generally considered nice, with some featuring generous layouts, though a few guests mention issues with outdated designs, small showers, or water leakage. Noise levels are typically low, contributing to a quiet stay, but occasional reports of elevator noise or thin walls exist. In-room amenities like coffee makers and electric tea kettles are appreciated, and microwaves can be requested for a fee. Some guests note that rooms show signs of wear and could benefit from updates.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers several dining options, including The Palm restaurant and the Amuse bar, which receive positive feedback. The restaurants are noted for good food quality and excellent service, with specific dishes like the Smashburger and Seabass being highlighted. Breakfast at The Palm is described as substantial and well-prepared, though some guests find the cost to be high. The bar areas are popular for their inviting atmosphere, good drinks, and friendly bartenders, making them pleasant spots for relaxation. While room service is available, some guests report it can be expensive or that orders were occasionally missed. In-room coffee quality is sometimes described as mediocre, and complimentary coffee is not consistently available in the lobby throughout the day.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous popular attractions. It is conveniently close to the Chicago Riverwalk, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile, offering abundant shopping and dining opportunities. Proximity to public transportation, including the 'L' Blue Line station, provides easy access to other parts of the city. For those attending events, the hotel offers convenient access to nearby convention centers, including an underground path to the Hyatt Regency. Parking is a frequently discussed topic, with both valet and self-park options available, but guests consistently note the high cost, often recommending researching alternative, more affordable parking garages nearby.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives outstanding praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the attentive service from the moment of arrival, including efficient check-in and check-out processes. Many reviews commend the staff for going above and beyond to accommodate requests, such as room upgrades or assistance with travel plans. The housekeeping staff is noted for their thoroughness and kindness, ensuring rooms are clean and well-maintained. Bellhops and valet attendants are also frequently mentioned for their efficiency and courteous demeanor. Overall, the staff's commitment to providing excellent customer service is a defining characteristic of the guest experience, contributing significantly to repeat visits.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of an urban experience fee that is automatically charged, which covers amenities such as Wi-Fi and access to the fitness center, and sometimes includes a credit for the hotel's bar or restaurant. While some guests find this fee to be a good value, others feel it is not always clearly explained upon booking. A security deposit is also required upon check-in, which some guests were surprised by. The hotel offers various room credits, such as a daily credit for food and beverage or for declining daily housekeeping, though these perks are not always communicated effectively to all guests. Loyal members of the hotel's rewards program often report receiving benefits like room upgrades. The hotel is also noted for its pleasant lobby scent, which creates a welcoming first impression for many visitors.