Swissotel Chicago, Chicago, IL - Reviews and Hotel Information

We chose the Swissotel for our New Years Eve getaway because it seemed to be our best bet for having a view of Navy Pier, where the fireworks would be set off at the magic hour. I knew it was going to be cold and I know I'm seldom actually out of bed at midnight. So fireworks from my warm cozy bed..... seems ideal!

The hotel is located at the end of the river, right where Upper Wacker ends and the lake starts. Our check in was a great experience. Previously we stayed a block away at the Hyatt and it was a bit like checking into Disneyland; crowds everwhere and escalators, corridors, elevator banks, hallways, and multiple staff to work with to find our room. The Swisshotel was completely the opposite. The valet parking staff opened the car door for us and guided us into the lobby. No line in the lobby and the desk clerk greeted us with a friendly welcome. The lobby itself was beautifully decorated for Christmas and the lobby lounge has comfy seats and a warming fireplace. A couple sitting in front of the fire was just served wine in the most beautiful wine glasses I've seen in awhile. It made me want a glass of wine!

First look at our room did not disappoint! The view of Navy Pier, lit up brightly, just after dark, was exactly what I had hoped for. We had two double beds, luxurious in the best linens and mattresses that make you feel like you never want to get up. A comfy easy chair in front of the window, and a nice desk area. A flat screen TV, modern lamps and some Chicago photos provide nice touches.

The bathroom is great; tile, soaking tub, separate shower with rain shower head, and nice amenities (even a scale!).

So with all this luxury, why did the hotel fall slightly short? I have complained about this before. Why do the most expensive hotels always charge for things like wi-fi ($9.95 for 24 hours and I've got work email to check), parking $49 per day!, and don't get me started on the minibar, $4.00 for a Snickers bar and an 18% restocking fee? Room service prices are so over the top with a pot of coffee costing $20, plus a 20% service charge and a $3.00 delivery fee (question: do we still tip the delivery guy?). I feel nickle and dimed.

Then we had the midnight monster. Some idiot was banging on a nearby room door and incessently ringing the bell and shouting "let me in, Godd*mmit!" for a good 15 minutes. He was kicking and yelling and shouting and swearing. I called downstairs and asked them to send someone up but am not sure that they ever did.

Second small complaint, several times when I tried to call the lobby or room service I got busy signals or no answer. OK, I know you're busy, but you need to get more staff. When I did get through to room service, through the front line, the room service operator was very polite and accommodating.

If you go for the lake view rooms you definitely do get one of the best views in Chicago.

Swissotel Chicago, Chicago

Swissotel Chicago

Chicago Hotels