I stayed at the W Chicago for 4 nights last week while attending a large convention at McCormick Place. I stay at other W Hotels frequently, mainly in Atlanta and New York. This W is similar to most - trendy, loud music, young clientele, expensive drinks. I was upgraded to a "fabulous" room (1917) and the room was good size with an ample work desk, king size bed, and reasonably large bathroom. Bathroom lighting was good, but the shower was pretty average for a W (standard tub and shower head). I get spoiled with the large walk-in rain showers at the Atlanta W Midtown. The bed was very comfortable and I was mostly able to sleep well thanks to playing the iPod stereo while falling asleep. As other reviewers have commented, the L was right below my room and runs every few minutes late into the night and early in the morning. My room didn't shake but it was indeed loud enough to awaken me in the morning. I am a pretty heavy sleeper so this didn't bother me too much, but if you are a light sleeper I would consider a different hotel.
I ate room service breakfast and it was delivered right on time and was very good, though expensive (bowl of oatmeal, berries, and OJ = $24). Lunch in the restaurant was also very good. Drinks at the bar are pricey but typical for an upscale hotel in the city. Housekeeping did a nice job making up the room and the rest of the service staff were very helpful and friendly.
The hotel is about 5 blocks from the Art Institute and there are several good restaurants within walking distance and a good pub 2 blocks away. The famous Berghoff Restaurant in 3 blocks away and a good place for lunch. There is not much in the way of evening entertainment that I found near the hotel. Whereas many W Hotels tend to be a gathering place and attract a good party crowd, that is not the case here. Except for the lobby music, this W is pretty quiet in the evenings.
Overall, this was a decent place to stay and I might stay here again if I had business directly in the loop. The L is pretty noisy but the rooms were comfortable, clean and the staff very helpful.
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