The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago
"How did it strike you on arrival?Swanky luxury hotel updated by contemporary art and design. What’s the crowd like?Status-conscious crossed with business-minded. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Rooms have a residential ease; even the smallest ones have a sofa and desk beside the picture windows (some face the lake, but even the city view rooms offer good looks at the surrounding buildings). We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Down duvets are super cozy. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Anything worth mentioning?Covetable Nespresso coffee machines and generous supply of coffee capsules. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Generously sized bathroom with marble vanities, enveloping terrycloth robes, and slippers. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Good wifi and included in the rate. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The lobby is energized by a glass-roofed café area that serves as a coffee shop by day, special drinks spot by night, with views of the city lights. There's also an Italian restaurant with a handsome bar and, in summer, a rooftop lounge that looks up to 875 N. Michigan Avenue (formerly the John Hancock Building) next door. The full-scale fitness center offers a daily slate of group classes. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?Great Magnificent Mile location for exploring the city, and a cosseting base to retreat to when exhausted. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Loads of amenities and access to food and drink features that draw in the locals, as well as guests, make this hotel feel plugged in." - Elaine Glusac
