Le Méridien Essex Chicago

The location across from the park makes it a great base for exploring, and the staff are really nice. Rooms are clean and nicely decorated, with a very comfy bed. Great value, too. I’d definitely come back.

The elevator arrangement was the one downside: they were slow, and the controls were confusing because two elevators shared one button while the third had its own. Otherwise, this no-nonsense boutique hotel offers good value for the price. The rooms are small but beautifully designed. There’s no executive lounge, though the lobby restaurant serves good food with attentive service. The location is great, directly across from Grant Park.

I was at a convention at McCormick Place, and the hotel made getting there convenient. It’s also very walkable to downtown and a range of nice restaurants. The hotel was nice and the staff were very friendly. After a long workday, the restaurant staff went above and beyond. The reason I gave it four stars was the bathroom design. There was no counter space, and a wood board partly covered the sink, making it really difficult to wash my face. Water ended up everywhere.

After a day out in Chicago, it was nice coming back to a room that felt comfortable and quiet. The hotel is stylish and clean, and the service was welcoming and efficient. Ask for an east-facing room if you can: the skyline and Lake Michigan views are lovely, especially at sunrise and when the city lights come on. Le Méridien Essex is also a handy base for walking to Grant Park, Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and the lakefront trail. It worked well for a city visit, whether for business or a longer stay.