We took a girls weekend up to Chicago for some shopping. Since we planned to spend an ample amount of time at Woodfield Mall and IKEA, we opted to stay in the "burbs." Our arrival and checkin was a breeze. Our room was very crisp and clean. White comforters is appealing and relieving. Starbucks coffee and TAZO tea are both in the room. We called the front desk for 2 extra robes, and within minutes (literally) they were at our door. That evening we asked as we walked in from dinner (close to midnight) for some extra bags of decaf and they actually said "stay right here!" They ran off to somewhere and came back with 4 bags for us. They were above and beyond on customer service. I ran the next morning on the trail behind the hotel. It's a paved trail that loops around 4-5 manmade lakes, each one boasting a fountain and birds (geese, ducks, etc...) I was planning to run 6 miles, but after 2 loops was a bit bored (as it's only about a 2 mile loop). This hotel is literally about 2 miles from Woodfield Mall and there are SEVERAL eateries in the area as well. It's a great option for a business trip, family vacation out of the city (no parking or valet costs!!) or just a quick trip "away."

First I want to say the hotel staff were all unfailingly polite and helpful. Couldn't ask for better. But, the design of the property leads to incredible noise echoing around the atrium into the rooms. When the bar is full with its open top the noise is over the top. Then, there is The Tent. This is literally a tent-like structure in back of the hotel, about 20 yards out. Be sure to check on weekends to see if there is going to be any kind of wedding or other event with loud music until late at night. Because if there is you won't be getting any sleep until very late at night. if your room is on that side of the building. We were on the 5th floor right over The Tent. The music was so loud that my daughter sang along with the songs and told me their names. When she was looking out about 11:00pm she put her hand on the window and told me it was vibrating from the bass and volume. When I went down and complained they gave my $25 off my rate, but that doesn't help when you need sleep. On top of that the noise level didn't go down one bit. Every night we stuffed the 1 inch opening at the bottom of the room door to muffle noise. Here are a couple of other quirks that don't help. The smoke alarms have a very bright flashing green light that lights up the room like a strobe light. The beautiful flat screen TV also has a bright orange light that flashes all night up the wall. The alarm clock beams across the room like a search light too.

I was there last spring for a convention. I found the Hotel stale and cold. The rooms were dated the staff not friendly and there was a large crack in the marble sink in my bathroom which caused water to run onto the floor every time I used it. After repeated calls to the front desk no help arrived. I was disapointed my rate was $200+ per night I wont be back. Not the quality I expect from Westin.

I've stayed here on two separate occasions within the last 5 months at this property that was remodeled in the Spring of 2007.

Located in a business Park setting, it has easy access to highways but no retail within walking distance. There is free and ample parking. Unique to this property is A 2.5 mile paved jogging path, outdoor basketball and tennis courts (in good condition.), and a Reebok fitness room located on the top floor which had multiple pieces of equipment and panoramic windows; a really thoughtful design that's a whole lot better than staring at a wall.

Common areas were well maintained and the staff courteous. I did not use the restaurants or lounge.

The Standard King Room and the King Junior Suite (Platinum Upgrade) had a contemporary design, were quiet, clean, and the beds extremely comfortable. Bathrooms were a good size and well lit. Amenities included a flat panel TV, a robe, in room Starbucks coffee, internet for a fee and I think the rooms had safes.

This hotel charges a $10 facility fee. Not sure what that fee is for or if it's a per day or a per stay charge; both of my stays were for one night only. This is a great business trip hotel. You could bring the family along but they may get bored after the first night- ttz