Getting to the Sheraton by car from the southwest was no problem at all, arriving easily onto the north side of the river sandwiched between the Magnificent Mile and the Lake. This 34 floor hotel is smack-dab in the middle of the “pedestrian area” of Chicago, only about one-and-a-half blocks east of Michigan Ave.

We were greeted by a friendly staff of valets and busmen as we pulled up outside the white façade and blue windowed structure. The lobby was abuzz with families about to go shopping and lovers reclining by the massive Christmas tree. We were here on a Saturday staying on an exceptional promotional rate for the month of December that included free valet parking. The Starwood Preferred Guest check-in hostess was exceptionally kind and helpful, upgrading a lowly Gold like myself to a Preferred Room just below the club level (all the double rooms on the club level were taken) with complimentary access to the club lounge and health facilities.

Beyond the main check-in area lay a larger lobby with many chairs and tables surrounding statues, another Christmas tree, the Java Bar, and Chi Bar and looking out over the Chicago River. All of the furnishings looked quite new and the common areas were very clean. The fast elevators transported us seamlessly to the 30 floor, where a bowl of mints, fresh apples, and magazines were out for Preferred Guests. The room was a bit dated (mainly the bathroom, with an older tiled tub enclosure), but most of the furnishings and the textiles seemed to be in good shape. The wood and earth tone scheme was very pleasant and soothing. The Sweet Sleeper Beds were heavenly (sorry, Westin!) and the room was quite comfortable, affording an exceptional view of the river, the backside of the Tribune Building, and the Trump Tower.

Having arrived at 4:30, we headed up to the 33 floor for Hors’ Devours in the club lounge. A key-carded door guards the club, which is housed in the top of one of the round west towers overlooking the city. It is two levels high with the second floor open to the first by a glassed-in railing. Alcoholic beverages were available for a small fee, but coffee, soda, salsa, chips, assorted cheeses, fresh fruit, and crackers were complimentary and quite tasty. The only qualm of the lounge was that there were quite a few patrons, resulting in an overworked staff and piled up dishes left on dirty tables.

The evening saw a flush of fresh snow, and a flocking of pensive types to candle-lit tables scattered around the lobby and in the Java and Chi Bars. The common areas were still quietly alive at midnight, as many were still watching the snowfall from their chairs pulled up next to large windows overlooking the Chicago River.

The beds slept wonderfully during the night and my wife really enjoyed the Mint and Mandarin beauty products by Bliss. Continental breakfast in the lounge was typical, consisting of cheese, pastries, cereal, fruit, yogurt, coffee, and fruit juices. A nice touch, but not worth the $15.95 price tag if access was not complimentary.

The check out process was very easy, and valet parking (located in the basement) had the car ready in about five minutes. Overall, we had an excellent stay and really enjoyed this property. The atmosphere (at least on a Saturday) was more geared for families and shoppers, but the spacious lobby and club level would make this a good property for travelers and business people alike.

Review submitted by abebix.

Posted at December 30, 2007 7:17 PM