Chicago: Four Seasons vs. Waldorf Astoria?
 

I will be heading to Chicago next week for 4 nights (Sunday - Thursday) for work and was hoping to get a recommendation on which of these 2 hotels to book. I will be placing the reservation through AMEX's fine hotels & resorts program & the Waldorf has a free 3rd night option, which brings the daily rate down to about $585 (vs. $770+ otherwise and compared to around $650/night for the Four Seasons).

I have stayed at both hotels back in 2013 in a previous job, but I realize a lot could've changed since then.

Neither. Peninsula or Langham is board consensus. My last stay at the Pen was wonderful. Some friends stayed at the FS and I joined them there for drinks and was not impressed.

Agree Pen is vastly superior to FS in Chicago

Agree on the Pen

Neither. I've had bad experiences at both the FS and the Waldorf. Also had a negative experience at the Pen, though from what I've heard that was a one-off. Still, at $800/night in Chicago you don't get much leeway. The Langham, on the other hand, has never disappointed in my many stays there.

Waldorf can get you a pretty big room for a pretty reasonable rate. I've enjoyed my time there. Great location.

Which hotel did you choose? I just stayed at the Peninsula Chicago for the first time over the new year. Was looking at the FS for an upcoming staycation (never been but offering good rates), but Waldorf Astoria is hands down my favorite property in Chicago.

WA Chicago just reminds me of how much better it was back when it was Elysian. Not a fan since it was taken over.

The Pen is always solid.

Langham is consistent... And that's tough in the hotel biz.

We stayed at the Langham last April and really enjoyed it. Staying there again in just over a week.

Had a corner suite last visit:

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...171f316bf5.jpg


https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0682838037.jpg

As an update reminder, the FS is now closed completely until early February complete the final stages of their renovation plan.
All work is due to be over by June 2020

Is the Peninsula sill the best option in Chicago?

Had a stay at the WA with generous Centurion benefits a few weeks ago. Some remarks:

- Not the cosiest of hotels. Feels a bit clinical.
- Upgraded at booking, again before check-in and again at check-in. From cheapest DeLuxe to Junior Suite to DeLuxe one bedroom suite.
- Suite, although comfortable, was not very stylish. Great bathroom though.
- Room was not ready at check-in (after 3 pm) which I always find annoying when it happens
- Margeaux restaurant is excellent. Had a breakfast, a lunch and a dinner there (and a drink at the bar). Delicious food and good service.
- Good gym but can get busy, did not try the pool.

Had a client who I booked at the Waldorf and they loved it.