I am going to Chicago this weekend for three nights and need to make a decision by tomorrow afternoon. I have both the Swissotel and Four Points (on Rush St.) reserved. The Swissotel winds up being $165 cheaper (overall, not per night). The location and reviews of Four Points seem much better than Swissotel, but I'm wondering if it's worth saving the money. Is the location of Swissotel a turn off? Anyone have any insight? We love to walk, but also love the idea of feeling a part of things, as well. So although walking to something doesn't deter us, feeling isolated and out of the way isn't what we're looking for, either. Help!

Although the Swissotel is only a few blocks from Michigan Ave, it does feel isolated and out of the way. That said, it only feels isolated and out of the way when you're right outside the hotel. A few blocks away and you're in the heart of it all.

So, I guess it depends on how much the isolated-ness matters to you. To me, $165 is a lot of money to spend for a bit better location, when the alternative is a perfectly fine location (to me). Maybe the money is less important than the location to you.

Four points is right smack in the middle of new downtown. I would stay at four points for that point. But I swisshotel is really really nice. I mean bathrobs and netrogena soaps and shampoo and the rooms are very spacious. But if you go out and drink then you have to walk back to the swiss. It is ok but sometimes especially if you are out late, you will feel isolated walking back late. I would stay at Four Points for the location. But if you plan to eat dinner and go in early or taxi back every night then I would definitly stay at the swiss. I stayed there a few years ago and I can remember it like it was yesterday. It was so so nice. have fun. I am going in July, still shopping for a hotel. I did see comfort inn for 119.00 on e. ohio street. Have fun.

liz

Thank you for your replies. They both helped a bunch. I think we will stay with Four Points -- this is our first trip to Chicago and it's only three days, so being in the heart of it all is really nice. Plus, we got our flights for free so it makes the $165 seem less important.

LIZZYTOO -- I was reading your post on another thread about wanting a cheaper option in Chicago. Have you heard of the Cass Hotel, I think it's on Wabash. It's right off Mag. mile and only $79-99/night. Apparently it's known as a really great budget hotel in a fabulous location. Also, i've heard the Days Inn Lincoln Park is another great budget option.

CFP, I'd reconsider. The Swiss is a lovely hotel close to the lake, with some really incredible views of Navy Pier, the lake and river, and the Saturday fireworks.

The Four Points is a rehabbed Sports Authority store in the middle of tourist central. No view. Lots of traffic.

Granted, I'm a big walker, but it's not that far. And you can take a lot fo cabs with $160.

Just a thought.
Racy

I've stayed at Swissotel and I agree with Racy.

Plus there is an underground from Swissotel that is filled with shops etc. and links to Hyatt and other Michigan Ave. exits. Nifty if it rains or weather is super windy.

The Palm in the Swissotel is pricey but has good lobster.

I'd reconsider too. The Swissotel has fabulous views and the location was perfect - for us anyhow. (close to Lakeshore Dr., Navy Pier, Grant Park, etc.) The hotel is also very nice with good-sized rooms. I've never stayed at Four Points, but Rush Street is not my favorite area either.

Dear CFP,

I hope Chicago was great for you. I was watching the cubs as I was reading your reply. I am glad you stayed at four points, especially since the flight was free. I have heard of the Cass hotel, just never really looked into it while i was on vacation. I will look it up right now. I hope you had some good pizza. Chicago is my town. I just love it there. Take care,

Liz