Everything has already been said in reviews of this grand hotel! At every step, our expectations were exceeded! We arrived very early (7:30 a.m. due to this being the only flight from our town), and were quickly checked into a beautiful Gold Coast Suite (1402). One could not ask for more in room accomodations. The suite was large, well-laid out, with opulent marble baths, superb shower, comfy beds, convenient lighting controls, and a superb fireplace! The service by everyone was first-rate and personal. For example, Roy was happy to print boarding passes and deliver them our room the night before our departure. This is a no-tipping hotel, yet the staff outperformed our expectations each time! The spa was relaxing and first-rate! We hardly left the hotel for food, as the restaurant/room service were excellent (though not inexpensive). For example, when we ordered toast, it was not warm bread, nor burnt edges, but perfect toast. Every detail of the fruit plate, berry bowl was equally perfect! The friendly driver took us to the Art Institute of Chicago in the hotel's Lexus at a moment's notice. The hotel had booked transportation from O'Hare prior to our arrival, and that went off without any trouble (like always happens in NYC). Housekeeping was non-intrusive, and there was not a water spot or dust particle to be found (I am picky)!

After looking over the negatives cited by Tripadvisor reviewers (very few, I must say), I found the elevators to be very fast, and the room service speedy and perfect. Yes, it is possible that the square footage is exaggerated, and there wasn't a towel hook by the shower. So what? Everything else more than made up for that! If you want a really extravagant stay in Chicago, stay here!!