W Chicago City Center: A Historical Hotel | Review

Located in the heart of Chi-town,  W Chicago City Center is one of the historical hotels of 1920’s formerly known as ‘Midland hotel’ was purchased by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in 1998.  Considering it’s part of the popular Starwood Hotels group,  it’s no surprise each and every quirky detail comes together to create a cool space worth marveling at.  From neoclassical and modern decor to fun amenities,  this 368 guest rooms hotel leaves you investigating each and every corner.

I recently stayed at W Chicago City Center during my trip to the windy city and loved every bit of my stay out here!

The Entrance

As soon as I entered the hotel, I was fascinated by its disco-themed lobby.  The big lamps,  cozy couches,  the beautiful display of marble walls and grandness of Beaux-Arts architecture with a tinge of blue lighting was giving a positive aura soothing to my eyes!

I sat on the couch for almost 10 minutes waiting for my turn to check-in.  I enjoyed the waiting time by taking the glimpse of the ambiance around and soaking in it!   From the magnificent designs carved on the roof to the shimmering chandeliers,  the entire decor was a treat to my eyes!

As soon as my turn came,  receptionist welcomed me and greeted with a warm smile.  I had a smooth check-in and she handed over the keys to my room.  I was excited to explore what W Chicago had to offer!

The Room

I was expecting the decor of the room to be similar to the lobby. However,  my room was contemporary reflecting the brilliant lighting with all the modern amenities.  The first thing that caught my attention was the beautiful inspirational quote about life on the wall.  It was giving very positive energy inside the room.  I also liked the modern artwork on the walls blending perfectly with the decor of the room.  The bed was cozy and comfortable.  I also liked the position of the flat-screen TV fixed high on the wall so that one can see properly while lying on the bed.  The room also had a small workstation with all the essential stationery.

The mini refrigerator and snack bar were fully stuffed with items at pretty high prices.  There was also a bottle of Wine with two glasses and a price tag.

The restroom was clean and had a bathtub as well as vanity top with all the toiletries from Bliss and in-room Bliss massage treatments.  The size of the bottle of all the toiletries was medium rather than the conventional small bottle sizes in most of the hotels.  However,  I felt that the bathroom was a bit small with limited counter space.

I am always excited to check the outside view from the hotel’s room.  As my room was on the sixth floor and it wasn’t facing the street,  I could only get the view of the skyscraper next to the hotel and a big W on a rooftop!

The Living Room Bar

The Living Room Bar of W Chicago hotel is a hot spot among the 9 to 5 professionals of the business district in the evening for after-work drinks and small bites.  It was a perfect place for me too,  talking to fellow travelers and listening to their stories after a long day exploring the endless things to do in the windy city!

Other Amenities

The hotel also has a 24/7 fitness room but no pool.  The famous IPO restaurant offering an eclectic menu of New Urban Cuisine inspired by the diverse cultures found in Chicago.  The menu at IPO features classic dishes with a contemporary flair including lobster benedict,  breakfast mac & cheese,  and a variety of sauteed organic quinoa bowls.  Once you’ve enjoyed a drink and a delicious meal,  get out and experience all Chicago has to offer!

Final Verdict

W Chicago City Center gives you a perfect vibe of the luxe downtown hotel.  It is in close proximity to top Chicago must-sees attractions such as the Sears Tower, the Civic Opera House,  the Magnificent Mile,  the Millenium Park,  the Grant Park,  the Buckingham Fountain and the Art Institute of Chicago.  The hotel is just 2 minutes walk from the Starbucks,  Walgreens,  and CVS as well as various restaurants and bars.  The hotel is 40 minutes drive to Chicago O’Hare International Airport, as well as just about four blocks from the Monroe or Jackson CTA, stops on the Chicago O’Hare Airport Blue Line.

As there are endless things to explore in the windy city,  you hardly get the time to enjoy all the amenities that your hotel has to offer but I enjoyed my stay at W Chicago City Center and would definitely choose to stay here during my next visit to the windy city!

Perfect for: Business travels or conferences,  family vacation for leisure,  wedding destination and a luxury base for exploring Chicago’s downtown as it’s in the vicinity of the airport as well as other must-sees attractions.

Do share your experiences if you’ve stayed at W Chicago City Center in the comments below?  If not,  what do you think about this hotel?