I was so excited when i knew that our bid landed on The Drake. My expectations went through the roof given its reputation. When we first arrived, I was impressed with the nice lobby and grande ambiance in the lounge. But once we stepped inside the rooms, our feelings turned into disappointment. The room was very small. The twin beds were comfortable but also very small. The bathroom was outdated. Cleanliness level was subpar. The minibar was dirty. No wireless connection in rooms!! Given its pricey rooms, one would expect more of this hotel. I had to extend my trip in Chicago but looked for another hotel to stay in.

My husband and I dined in their cocktail room, Coq d'Or. Beware of the bar tender, he will slip in more drinks in the check without you noticed and the manager just think you are an idiot and lied to your face.

We so enjoyed our trip to Chicago and the Drake - everything is just beautiful - it's lavish lobby and cozy rooms - the bar and tea time are wonderful as well. The Drake is truly a gem to the Chicago area and I recommed it to all guests who can afford to stay there. It's not cheap - but it is memorable!

I am a suburban Chicago resident and had a last minute invite to a conference at the Drake. Since we were meeting for early breakfast, we decided to come down the afternoon before and live it up a bit.
The hotel did not dissappoint, but i was upgraded upon arrival to the 6th floor. Our room was very nice in all respects, but I did hear other attendees complaining of room size. I didn't have the heart to tell them my internet rate was better than the attendee rate, but that is the nature of last minute booking- sometimes you win and sometimes you sleep in the car!
I enjoyed the decor, the staff and the check in/out. Some hotels are operating on such skinny staffs that it is noticeable. This property had good staffing for the guests and even better for the conference services.
My only heartburn came from something the Drake has no control over- our mayors "revenue eyes" with regards to fleecing the tourists. I would happily make 1-2 more overnight trips to Chicago every year, and actually buy something on the Mag mile if the tax add ons didn't make me so foul mooded and ornery. Mayors office, are you listening???? Olympic organizing committee, are you???