Peninsula-Chicago

City Chic

When I think of luxury hotels one hotel that consistently wins in my book is The Peninsula Chicago. Whatever your travel reason, be it personal, family or business, this hotel is an added plus in choosing Chicago as your destination.

I recently stayed at this property for a week long business trip, coincidentally on the 8 year anniversary of their opening. I marveled at how new and fresh the hotel is, no wall scratches, clean carpets, and the furniture looked as beautiful as when the hotel first opened.

I love the open lobby, similar to their flagship hotel in Hong Kong. In the afternoons, live music plays and people are actually just relaxing and enjoying the moment. If you want to see and be seen, then it is all happening in the lobby of the Peninsula, but in an understated way!

Everything in this hotel is well thought out: for instance, each guest room is equipped with a state-of-the-art electronic system next to the bed that allows guests to control everything from the room temperature to lights with the touch of a button. The bathrooms have separate vanities and deep soaking tubs with built in televisions. There is nothing like watching the news in the tub after a long day!

The cuisine in this hotel is diverse and consistent; they offer four distinctive restaurants and an inviting bar. Avenues offers contemporary cuisine with an accent on seafood. Shanghai Terrace specializes in delicacies from all over Asia, which includes the most amazing dim sum and the lobby which offers all day dining. The bar is open in the evenings and has a hip and happening menu known for their Kobe beef sliders!

Last, but not least, is the fitness center, lap pool, and spa. Located on the top floor of the building, the views alone will help you get through your workout. Take in a relaxing massage afterward at the spa, and you won’t forget it! It’s a promise.

- Tammy Zacks, General Manager-Group Travel, Meetings, and events