Four Seasons Chicago Hotel

This review is about the FS Chicago property alone. We’ve had wonderful stays at quite a few other FS properties. But after at least 20 visits to this one over 25 years, for both work and pleasure, we’ve seen the quality and experience decline a lot. A disappointing stay a year and a half ago didn’t stop us from giving it another chance, but things hadn’t improved. We think the latest major renovation may have added more rooms, because the facilities and staff seemed stretched thin. Food quality has gone downhill, and the new common areas feel less welcoming and intimate. The pool and spa are overcrowded and poorly maintained. On each of our last two visits, the pool was so crowded and murky that it didn’t feel safe to swim. We’ll look at other options next time we come back to Chicago to visit family.

The location is excellent, right by the lake and near great dining, shopping, and museums. Inside, the rooms are spacious and comfortable, with lovely views and details you notice in the finishes and bedding. The lobby and common areas feel elegant but not flashy, and have a calm, thoughtful design. Staff are gracious, professional, and attentive without hovering or putting on a show. Everything feels smooth and polished, so the stay is effortless. It feels special because the quality and comfort hold up across the details, not just because of the brand. A top Chicago choice if you’re after real luxury.

Update: the Four Seasons team contacted me right away and worked to fix the problems. They made our stay much better, and we really appreciate the effort. I’m currently at the hotel and, at first, wasn’t impressed. The rooms were very nice, but they weren’t ready until two hours after check-in. For a five-star hotel, the operation felt closer to three-star service. We were told they were out of water bottles, then sent to the valet, who said they didn’t have any and apparently get theirs from the check-in area, where we’d been directed from. We were told water would be brought to our rooms, but it never came. When we called, they brought it to only one of our two rooms. Breakfast involved crazy wait times even though there seemed to be empty tables. A smaller thing, but only one room got chocolates. The hotel seemed really short-staffed. The nice rooms were the only reason I could give it two stars, because the service didn’t match what they charge for a five-star hotel.

We had a great stay while in Chicago for personal business. There were great views, lots of good restaurants nearby, and excellent shopping within easy walking distance. The bar was good and quiet, and the restaurant food was delicious and arrived quickly. The suites have nice bathtubs and LeLabo products. Valet staff were especially friendly and helpful. It had the usual Four Seasons feel and good service. We were surprised they don’t have a car service or option for nearby destinations beyond Lyft/Uber or a contracted company. They do offer one for longer distances.