When Allan and I decided that we wanted to stay for two nights in Chicago to celebrate our 44th Wedding Anniversary [August 10, 2007], Allan selected The Seneca Hotel because of its fabulous location and reasonable price. It's located across from the John Hancock Center and Water Tower Place. It is so convenient to everything that we wished to do.
It was built in 1924 and was renovated in 2006. Not all of the rooms are done yet; fortunately, we were placed in a renovated room on the 17th floor [#1705]. This is a European boutique hotel even though it is 17 floor high. There are more than 200 rooms, but 190 of them are guestrooms. The others are used as permanent residents.
We had a room with a queen-sized bed, large dresser, a small round table with two chairs, two end tables, a high bar that separated the bedroom from the kitchen. The kitchen had a full-sized refrigerator, sink, microwave, fully stocked cabinets, toaster, coffeemaker, electric can opener. It also had a beautiful tiled bathroom. Surprisingly, we had two rather large closets with a in-room safe.
We really loved the high ceilings with crown molding. I also liked the sheer white drapes which let in plenty of light. Behind the sheers were mini-blinds that could be closed.
If you want more luxury, you need to ask for a suite that has king bed in a separate bedroom, a sofa, loveseat, and upholstered chair as well as a dining area with table and chairs.
All the rooms have complimentary wireless Internet access and voice mail.
The hotel has a lovely restaurant called The Saloon Steakhouse where seafood, steaks, and fine chops are served. There is also a more informal place called The Chestnut Grill and Wine Bar. There are three meeting rooms, a business center, a concierge desk, a same-day cleaning service, and discounts to Linda Field's Salon and Spa.
Note: If you use the Valet Parking Service where you have unlimited in and out privileges, the cost is $42.00 per night. Instead, we used the parking garage next door for $25.00 a night with those privileges because we walked everywhere. [Believe it or not, in 2 1/2 days, Allan and I walked over 40 miles just exploring the lakefront, the parks, Michigan Avenue, etc.]
