Traveling with my husband and granddaughter. The valet's at the door were awesome, especially Pria (Paul) he actually made our stay there a little bit more enjoyable. As we entered the hotel I felt it was a little dark. My only problem with my stay was the front desk person on duty that night 6/25/09 and concierge they were not customer friendly at all. I booked my reservation on priceline and when we checked in we were given a queen book when I went to the front desk to request two double beds the gentleman at the front desk advised me the hotel was full and explained I had a child with me, he was not very sympathic reminding me that I did book my reservations on priceline, I had to walk away at that point. In my mind it shouldn't matter if I did booked at discount site.
Later I spoke with the manager Mr. Jones and he was very helpful but the damage had been done. I would not recommend this hotel for travelers with small children, you have to go practically through the lounge or bar to get to the elevators and they did not have a swimming pool not kid friendly.

We were booked into this hotel for a one day conference. If it hadn't been in the middle of our stay, I would have moved. The lobby is a beautiful space with old architectural affects, but it is lit with purple, blue and pink neon. Way Too Cool for a sophisticated hotel. There is very loud "hip" music playing all the time. The public spaces are nerve wracking. But the elevators top it all! If you were stuck in one for any time, you would end up a gibbering mess. They somehow have a 3D effect with planets? in blue, purple and tan seeming to float at you. But the planets are not in focus, so you continually try to get in a place where they will all seem right. There is loud music playing here also and a sickly sweet odor. I think they haven't figured out how to assault your taste buds or there would have been a flavor. We were on the 15th floor and the noise from the "L" was noticeable. The bed was very comfortable and the other furnishings were fine if not so comfortable. The bath was a nice size, but nothing special, the same old tub with a shower head. The towels were very thin. Our view was into the other rooms of the hotel. I think it is too far away from the fun places to suit me.
The staff was very courteous and professional. Our bellman was even a little apologetic over the excesses of the hotel. I was annoyed over the $15 charge to use the internet in the rooms and a charge to use the business area. There is a free connection in the lobby, but no one could ever do any work there. I did like the FareWell kiosk, which allows you to check out and print your boarding pass. But all in all, I would prefer a calm soothing place to stay.

We stayed at the W Chicago City Center for one weekend night with one child. As a Starwood preferred gold member we were upgraded and I must say the room was excellent and large with a very large bathroom. The room faced the interior courtyard and was very quiet. Furnishings are very nice but W needs to learn a thing or two from Westin about comfortable beds. The "Style" department (come on - don't try so hard to be cool!) brought a cot for our daughter promptly. We did not eat here or use room service. The location really is excellent for the financial/theatre district and close to Millenium/Grant Park and the Museums. Quite a walk to Magnificent Mile however. Overall -we will stay here again for the location and ability to utilize Starwood points.

LOCATION: May seem a bit far from Magnificent Mile, but Chicago is big, so this location was good. In the financial area, so the weekend is less busy here. Just a 10 minute walk to the lake or Millennium Park and 20 minutes to the Wrigley Building.

ROOM: Good size. Very modern and contemporary. Cool decorations. Great amenities and Bliss bathroom products.

HOTEL: The lobby and public areas are unique and chic. The location is not the best, but if you get a good rate, don't mind the walk, then this hotel is great!

CITY: Chicago has so much to offer. Just consult your tour book.