We just spent 2 nights at the Swissotel in Chicago for a daughter's graduation. I've stayed in other Swissotels and assumed that this one would be of the same level. I was wrong. The normal and expected amenities such as robes, magnifying mirrors, a morning newspaper and decent toiletries were all missing. Instead we were offered a rude and incompetant staff, amateur and slow valet, over-priced internet, garage and fitness room access charges and an inept business office. Don't think we'll be staying at a Swissotel ever again! The "nickel and diming" business is bad enough in a top tier hotel but this Swissotel feels more like a $350/night Motel 6.

Luxury hotel at the mouth of the Chicago river and Lake Michigan. Building is shaped like a triangle and only has about 17 rooms on a floor, so very quiet and no hall noise. Service was excellent (when you called the front desk they addressed you by your name) and housing came as soon as asked. Room was larger than standard, the bed was very comfortable and the bathroom had a tub and separate shower enclosure. Close to the center of the city and an easy walk to the loop, Michigan Avenue and Grant park and the museums. Booked our stay through hotwire and saved about 50% off the rack rate on a weekend when there was a conference with 15,000 MD's in the city center. Only peeve was we were told at check-in that the pool/health club was an extra $15/day per person, and while I like to swim and workout, there is enough to see and do in chicago that I didn't miss it. Also valet parking is $50 a day and you don't need a car if you are there

Room 1619 was a very nice room, had a great view, beds were soft and very nice to sleep in, TV was very nice, show was very nice, staff was awesome saw to every need I inquired about. $52 a night to park, read very carefully about the room service charges,swimming pool and internet charge in your room, and of course the mini bar. If you don't mind spending the money then the swissotel is the place to go, if you are frougal and don't want to spend alot of money, find a cheaper hotel.

The Swissotel has everything going for it and should be ranked higher.

LOCATION
Perfect. It’s right by the Chicago River and it’s proximity to Lake Shore Drive, makes for a quicker cab ride to the Airport or north to Wrigley Field. There are few buildings between the Swissotel and Lake Michigan, making for gorgeous views, yet you are in the heart of it all. The Michigan Avenue bridge is only two blocks away. Grant Park and Navy Pier are also a short walk.

ROOMS
If you can swing it, get a corner suite. Because the building is a triangular shape, you get a sweeping view that is absolutely stunning. A lot of windows, but nice light-tight drapes for a good nite sleep. Tasteful modern decor and roomy. The bathroom and bedroom are separated by a good distance. The beds are heavenly.

VIEWS
From a corner suite, you can see the Navy Pier, Millenium Fountain’s hourly water arch across the Chicago River, Lake Michigan & the Harbor, Buckingham Fountain and part of Millenium Park. We were lucky enough to see the 9:30pm fireworks show from our window that are set from Navy Pier on the weekend.

STAFF
Has that midwestern charm. The bell hops and front desk personnel are very helpful and friendly. I did not hear a peep out of housekeeping who were respectful.

MISC.
Every third floor has an ice machine. The 9th and 12th Floors for example have ice. The location of the machine is in an isolated room, I’m assuming to drown out the noise. It was a little creepy at night. Guys won’t care, women may feel a little ill at ease, but could certainly call room service. The staff is quite accommodating. In the lobby the hotel offers complimentary water, which may not sound like much, but the ice cold jugs have freshly cut fruit in them such as melon or strawberries. The restaurant in the hotel is “The Palm” which has several locations nationwide and serves up a good steak.

If you take a river architecture cruise, the guides will point out the Swissotel as one of architect Harry Weese’s triangle obsessed marvels.

I was very impressed with this hotel and its staff. I’m looking forward to more visits in the future and I highly recommend the Swissotel to anyone traveling to Chicago.