Great location, but overpriced overall
I had planned at the onset of my trip that, following my conference in Lombard, I'd shift over to Chicago proper and spend a few days exploring a new city. 
I'd booked the hotel for its location downtown; it averaged about $250 per night, rather hefty for a Courtyard. By happenstance, my first couple of days would be the same as the NATO Conference which seemed to be a license to jack up the cost of hotel rooms everywhere; swell timing on my part. The Courtyard had one of the better prices by default.
As for the hotel itself, which rates a six on Marriott's point scale, my initial impression was that the room was not much grander that the one-point-rated TownePlace Suites I had just quitted in Lombard. The room had a similar color scheme to TownePlace: dark red and sunny yellow. The bath had faux brown granite as its splash for additional classiness. The towels were of the same size and quality though - small and thin. While the toilet had better flushing power, the water pressure in the shower was anemic. The bath amenities were of a better grade, being Paul Mitchell in shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. The room furnishings were a bit sturdier than at TownePlace; and at least the TV was better situated across the bed and sitting area and did not present a shin hazard. The closet doors were mirrored. The room had no safe. The Courtyard did not have (and, in fairness, did not list) any refrigerator or microwave in the regular king room. It did have a coffee maker, placed inexplicably in the bathroom. Once again (see - La Quinta Hinesville), ick.
I don't know what views the other three sides of the Courtyard enjoy, but I can say that mine looked straight into the Red Roof Inn rooms across the street. For pity's sake, keep the curtains drawn. Be aware that the narrow streets and surrounding tall buildings means sound travels upwards and it penetrated the room easily. Sirens were a daily occurrance.
Since my stay was brief, I skipped the daily housekeeping. I did notice that the room had some cleanliness issues on arrival: dust on and in the furniture, scraps of trash on the carpet and in the bathroom. The reception personnel and doormen were very friendly and helpful.
I chose this Courtyard for its location in Chicago, and there it delivered without drawback, being a short block from Michigan Avenue in the middle of the Magnificent Mile; go the opposite direction and be on track to the Navy Pier. A Red Line station is a mere half mile away. But Chicago is eminently walkable and the hotel's location was a perfect base to begin an exploration on foot.
Overall, the Courtyard was the best choice for me due to its location and "lowest" price at the time. I was underwhelmed by the room which carried such a premium but I'd still probably stay here again since, compared to other similar hotels in the area, it was not a bad deal for downtown.