First of all, I haven't read any of the other reviews, so please forgive me if I repeat something.
My wife and I stopped through Chicago for one night on our way back to Atlanta. We stumbled upon this hotel online and decided to give it a try. It was great! Finding it was a little tricky.....our GPS took us right to the front door, but we had to call to find out where the parking deck was. Once we parked, it was a little troublesome getting to the front desk, as the valet wasn't there at the time. Obviously, the valet parking would have made things easier.
Everyone we encountered that worked for the BAC was wonderful. We checked in about an hour early and our room was ready. You do have to transfer elevators to get to the 40th floor, but it's really not a big deal.
The room was spacious and comfortable and the view was just amazing. We were facing towards Lake Michigan, with the Buckingham Fountain right in front of us. But when you are 40 floors up, any direction has a great view.
We were only there for a night, but the hotel was very close to the SkyDeck and some GREAT chicago deep-dish pizza. We went to the Field museum, which was not within walking distance, but the concierge was helpful in telling us the best way to get there (by car and by the train). Breakfast the next morning was simple, but perfect to get us going.
The only problem we had was finding the actual athletic club. We wanted to take a swim, so we went to the 3rd floor. However, we were unknowingly on the wrong side of the 3rd floor, with a bunch of offices. This isn't clearly specified in their welcome packet, but again, the concierge was very helpful telling us how to get there. Once we were there, AMAZING! Th pool was huge and a nice cool (but not cold) temperature. The spa was enormous and relaxing. There is a giant "relax" room with a tv and couches around the perimeter. We only wanted to swim so we didn't try any of the other work out related things, but it was all very nice.
One thing that was a little strange.....the hotel is on the 40th floor of an office building. So during the day, you will constantly be sharing the elevator with businessmen and women dressed in their suits and ties and briefcases. Being on vacation, we felt a little underdressed in our sandals and t-shirts. Of course, around 5PM the business people leave for the day and it is much quieter. Not that big of a deal....just a little strange.
Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. It was a great price and a wonderful hotel!
- Buckingham Athletic Hotel
