Lovely gem, great location, wonderful staff
We've stayed at a number of hotels on the Gold Coast during our daughter's four years at college, but this Marriott Residence Inn is probably the top for location, services and amenities. This is not a pretentious hotel, but a lovely and clean one. The rooms are top rate: clean, roomy and well appointed. But here is the secret to this hotel: a Wonderful Front End and Staff!
From the moment we drove up until the moment we were ready to check out, this is a first class hotel. The valets get to know you and are knowledgeable about the area, the front desk is friendly and attentive, and the house staff are pleasant and present. The front desk, especially, is a wonderful asset to this hotel. The concierge staff is exceptional, and gave us ideas for an entire weekend of activities, even though we've been familiar with Chicago for a number of years. We actually spent more time walking this time because we were advised of better ways to get to places on foot or to use local transit. This location is ideal because of its proximity to Michigan Avenue, but we never realized how easily you can walk to other places -- like the Navy Pier.
Thanks to Dion, the front manager...a gentleman and a great source of non-touristy spots to eat and drink.