You guys know I just got back from TBSCon and while I already filled you in on everything we did in my full re-cap, I wanted to tell you more about the beautiful place I stayed and of course my honest thoughts / recommendations during my stay at The W Lakeshore in Chicago, IL.

Overview

First impressions of the property were so great. The hotel is right on the waterfront and everything is so swanky and luxe. There is a cozy lobby with chic decor and this amazing mirrored W right now front – total statement piece! One of my favorite things was the garden wall right when you walk in. It was the perfect picture taking spot and trust me when I say every blogger took advantage of it. I absolutely love it when places have these cool decor touches. They are so fun and really make places stand out in my mind. They also make for pretty good memories & photo ops.

 

 

RESTAURANT & BAR

When I travel, it is really important to me that wherever I stay has a good food or drink option. It doesn’t have to have 5 stars or anything, but this girl likes to eat and usually, at least one night of any trip, I am too tired to go out and like to know that there is a reliable, convenient option right in the hotel. This trip was no exception. My cool roomie (and now friend) Megan and I went out shopping and got caught in a serious downpour. Being soaked, cold and kind of over it, we headed back to the hotel for a late bite and drinks. The hotel was so nice and gave us a few drink tickets at check in so we chose to use them that night at the Current Bar. They also have a full restaurant shown below but again, we were soaked so I’d say we weren’t exactly dressed for it. The Current Bar was a great choice and the champagne mojitos were so delish and refreshing.

 

The Current Bar – PC: booking.com

The Current Bar – Champagne Mojito

View From the Top

We stayed on the 12th floor and wow was it incredible! The views from every angle of the hotel were incredible and breathtaking. This one from the elevator lobby was my favorite. Every afternoon during my stay, the beach and the Lake were full of people coming and going on their boats or just swimming. It was really so beautiful, my words will not do it justice so I’ll just say you have to go check it out for yourself. You also need to get down to the Ferris wheel which I am sad to say I just didn’t have time to do.

PC: Jules Kennedy Photography

PC: Jules Kennedy Photography

The Rooms

The rooms were just as luxurious as the lobby and restaurant area and spacious too. I am not exactly the lightest packer so for me to not feel cramped and overwhelmed in a room with all my luggage and a roommate is quite an accomplishment. Megan and I each had our own half of the room and shared the bathroom with no trouble or conflicts at all.  The room decor was pretty modern and clean with pops of bright color which is so my style. Too much bright color can be hard to handle and even at times stressful, but there was just enough to give off a cool happy vibe and still be relaxing. The beds were so cozy and comfortable – also the right combo of soft and firm. I’m still trying to figure out if they were just that good or if  I was always so tired, but I slept great and had a great view of the city from our window.

PC: The W Lakeshore

Overall, it was a great place to stay. My experience at the W and all other Starwood hotels has been great to date. Everything was clean, organized and fresh. In addition to great views, the hotel is within walking distance to several popular restaurants, shops and tourist sights. Although I didn’t have time in a jam packed conference weekend to check them out, the W Lakeshore offers amenities including a great gym, pool and spa that was highly recommended. If you are visiting Chicago any time soon and are looking for a luxurious and convenient place to stay, you should definitely check out The W.