Waldorf Astoria, Chicago
I had a free night expiring from one of the various credit cards I have (I have ones specialized for each property group just to earn more points) and then a pile of more points I never used in Hilton, and I was easily able to grab two nights at the Waldorf Astoria in Chicago, which is a place I have had drinks in the lounge before, and really wanted to stay at.I was upgraded as a Diamond to a junior suite (It's a huge room, but technically is really a junior suite, so I applaud this categorization).
Arrival
Flights had gone through the roof, so I drove down from Minnesota and found offsite parking (no in and out, just park and forget until trip is over) for $45 total vs. $60 a night and then utilized taxis for the weekend. Traffic of course was a nightmare in Chicago, but I did finally arrive safe and sound and was promptly checked in and up to my room.The Room
I was in a junior suite, which is technically correct as there is no door to close off the bedroom from the rest of the room, just a room divider with the fireplace and televisions. Size, many would call this a suite. No complaints here.
3D interactive room tour, use your mouse or fingers to move around and see other rooms.
Use the Floorplan for direct room click access.
Dining
Brass Tack is the dining venue, with an old dark wood, steakhouse from the 60s feel which, honestly, I like. And Bernards, the speakeasy with a frosted glass entrance so only those who know, know where to go.I had breakfast every day at Brass Tack, and one night ate and drank at Bernards.
Amenities
A spa, as one would expect at a five-star property, and a lap pool, plus the gym
Misleading floor plan, as I am not out in the hall, but the room is second largest on the floor
Such quality bath amenities from Aesop (a personal favorite of mine)
As one would not expect to wait for a quick bite or drinks, the mini bar is fully stocked
Champagne and beer
And then wine and bourbons of the top shelf variety
The bar at Brass Tack
Waldorf's Mrs. Palmer
Unusual square french toast, but pretty tasty
Sweetness scale of nuclear for the pancakes, I'll pass next time
The eggs and fuller breakfast was the win for the weekend
Welcome to Bernards, being first has seating choice advantages
Yes, it really is that dark
The exceptional bar
Seafood tower deliciousness
Cardio nutzo, but it was the weekend and my rest time
Narrow, but long, good for runs up and down
All the spa things
And some interesting other items like jewelry