Photo: © Jim Twardowski

Glancing from my GPS to the street, I spotted the Hyatt name and helped my husband search for the entrance to the hotel, which has two towers connected by a walkway. We slid into the valet line, grabbed our luggage and stepped inside a massive glass-enclosed, two-story lobby. Temporarily overwhelmed by the expansive surroundings, I took a moment to get my bearings and locate the reception desk. Surprisingly, there was no line and we immediately received the keys to our guestroom on the 22nd floor.

A stunning, floor-to-ceiling view of the Chicago River greeted our entry to a modern and roomy king standard guestroom decorated in grays and browns. An extra-large desk allowed plenty of space for sprawling paperwork. Tucked in the corner, a lounging chair and floor lamp made for a comfortable spot to read the newspaper or watch the 48-inch television. The Hyatt Grand Bed with luxurious linens ensured a restful night. We appreciated the extra blanket and pillows stored in the closet. An in-room safe and coffeemaker completed the amenities. The spacious bathroom featured KenetMD bath products.

The hotel offers five restaurants and lounges, as well as room service. The newest option, The Living Room, opened in the summer. Grab-and-go items are served from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the space reopens from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. for dinner and drinks. In the evening, guests enjoy American small plates paired with cocktails. Try the Hole in One, made with Johnnie Walker Black Label, unsweetened tea, lemon juice and honey, which goes nicely with the mini pork belly sliders and smoked bourbon applesauce.

The hotel’s large fitness center operates 24 hours a day, but we prefer to get our exercise by walking to the nearby attractions. Millennium Park with amazing art and architecture is a 10-minute walk and the impressive Art Institute of Chicago just a 15-minute stroll. The energy of the city is invigorating, especially in the evening after an intoxicating performance at the symphony.

Before going to bed, we discovered our iPhone charger was frayed and no longer working. We called the front desk and learned we could buy a charger from a Best Buy vending machine in the lobby or borrow one from the hotel. The Hyatt Convenience Collection is a menu of items guests might need while away from home. Everything from a teakettle and yoga mat to humidifier and curling iron are available. This kind of service sets a hotel apart from the competition.

The Hyatt Regency Chicago is the largest Hyatt property in the world with 2,019 guestrooms. Bordering the Magnificent Mile in downtown, the location is ideal for the guest who wants to blend business and leisure travel.

Hyatt Regency Chicago

151 E. Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60601
tel 312 565 1234