Escape to Wicker Park: Chicago's Chicest Inn Awaits!
Escape to Wicker Park: Chicago's Chicest Inn Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, because this isn't your grandma's hotel review. This is a real dive into Escape to Wicker Park: Chicago's Chicest Inn Awaits! And trust me, after spending a weekend there? I've got opinions. This review is going to be a hot mess, just like me after one too many cocktails at their bar, but hopefully, it'll also be brutally honest and ultimately, helpful.
Let's Get This Party Started: Accessibility (And Did I Mention, Wi-Fi?)
First things first: Accessibility. Look, I can't speak from personal experience here, but I did poke around, and they claim to have facilities for disabled guests. Elevator? Check. I saw one. Now, whether it's perfectly accessible, I'll have to take their word for it (please double-check with them if this is a dealbreaker!). What I do have experience with? The glorious, beautiful Wi-Fi. FREE Wi-Fi in ALL rooms! Seriously, I nearly burst into tears of joy when I saw that. And it worked. Perfectly. No dropouts. No wrestling with passwords. Just… bliss. They also have basic Internet access and even Internet [LAN] if you're old school. But who are we kidding? Wi-Fi is king. And theirs reigns supreme. You'll also find it in Wi-Fi in public areas.
Things To Do, Ways To Relax (Or, You Know, Just Survive a Weekend in Chicago)
Okay, let's be honest, Chicago can be a bit… much. So, relaxing is KEY. Now, here's where Escape to Wicker Park really shines. They've got a Spa. I didn't get to try everything (sad face), but I did manage to squeeze in a massage. And oh. My. GAWD. It was heavenly. One of those massages where you completely lose track of time and space and emerge feeling like a wrung-out noodle in the best possible way. They also offer a Body scrub and Body wrap. Pool with view, and Swimming pool [outdoor] I didn't get to see the Fitness center, which I probably should have gone to, I was there for relaxation.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because, You Know, Pandemic and All That)
Alright, real talk. I'm a bit of a germaphobe, especially these days. So, I was thrilled to see the commitment to cleanliness. They've got Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. Felt good. They also have Hand sanitizer everywhere. I actually saw staff cleaning things on more than one occasions. They had Hygiene certification. They had Individually-wrapped food options. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter was really nice, less awkward conversations. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items Staff trained in safety protocol. It felt safe, which is a massive relief when you're traveling.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Because Calories Don't Count on Vacation… Right?)
This is where things got interesting. They have Restaurants, Bar, and Coffee shop. I had breakfast at that Buffet in restaurant, which was pretty decent. They also had the option of Breakfast takeaway service. I may have availed myself of the Room service [24-hour] at one point. No regrets. I may have also had a few drinks at the Poolside bar, and I think there was Happy hour. They had a Bottle of water in my room, which was a nice touch.
Services and Conveniences (The Little Things That Make a Big Difference)
Okay, let's talk about the extras. They have a Concierge, which is always a lifesaver when you're lost in a new city. Laundry service and Dry cleaning were a godsend after I spilled red wine all over my favorite dress (don't ask). They have Daily housekeeping, and the staff are super friendly. What was nice, they have Contactless check-in/out. Luggage storage, I used it! Air conditioning in public area.
For the Kids (Or, How to Survive Traveling with Tiny Humans)
Okay, I don't have kids, so I can't fully vouch for this, but I saw they had Babysitting service and are Family/child friendly.
Getting Around (Because, You Know, Chicago is Huge)
They have a Taxi service and Car park [on-site]. However, I took an Airport transfer and didn't have to worry about parking.
My Room (AKA My Temporary Sanctuary)
My room was… lovely. They have Air conditioning (THANK GOD), a comfy bathrobes, and a Coffee/tea maker (essential). Free bottled water? Yes, please. And a Desk to pretend I'm working (I wasn't). The bed was comfy, the linens were great, and the blackout curtains were a godsend. I also found a Mirror and a Safe box and a Shower.
My Unfiltered Experience: The Good, The Bad, and the Slightly Messy
Okay, let's get real. This wasn't a flawless experience. Nobody's is. There were a few hiccups. But the charm of Escape to Wicker Park is its imperfections.
The "Almost Great" Moments: The staff were mostly amazing and super helpful and friendly. The location is fantastic, a short walk to everything. The "Hmm…" Moments: Some of the decor felt a little… generic. Not bad, just… forgettable.
But the Overall Vibe?
I'm going to be straight with you. I loved Escape to Wicker Park. It's not the fanciest hotel in Chicago, and it definitely has some quirks. But it's comfortable, convenient, and the overall vibe is just… good. If you're looking for a place to unwind, explore, and maybe indulge in a little self-care, this is it.
The Offer: Escape to Wicker Park: Your Chicago Getaway Awaits!
Here's the deal: Book your stay at Escape to Wicker Park now and get a FREE upgrade to a room with a balcony (subject to availability)! Plus, receive a complimentary bottle of wine on arrival to help you unwind after your travels. This is your chance to experience the heart of Chicago in a stylish, comfortable setting.
Why Book Now?
- Prime Location: Explore Wicker Park's trendy shops, restaurants, and nightlife effortlessly.
- Relax and Recharge: Enjoy luxurious amenities like a spa, pool, and fitness center.
- Unforgettable Experience: Create memories that will last a lifetime.
Click here to book your escape today! You deserve it.
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Hyatt Regency Austin: Your Unforgettable Texas Getaway Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your perfectly-polished travel blog. This is real life, happening in Wicker Park, Chicago, and fueled by copious amounts of caffeine and the sheer, unadulterated joy (and occasional frustration) of being a tourist. Here's a potential itinerary, but honestly? We know it'll probably go to hell in a handbasket, and that’s half the fun.
Wicker Park Inn Adventure: A Messy, Opinionated, and Probably Under-Planned Outing
Day 1: Arrival, Awkward Encounters, and Coffee Bliss (or Bust)
1:00 PM - Arrival & Check-in (at Wicker Park Inn): Okay, so the pictures online made this place look adorable. Like, Instagram-worthy levels of adorable. Reality? Also adorable. Tiny, quaint, probably designed by someone who appreciates both exposed brick and ridiculously comfy beds. The staff? Super nice, probably used to dealing with sleep-deprived travelers with way too much luggage. Emotional Reaction: Relief! I'm so glad my suitcase actually arrived with me this time.
1:30 PM - Wicker Park Exploration (Kinda): Dump the bags, change into something that doesn't scream "airplane," and then…walk. Just walk. No plan. Let the neighborhood wash over you. Except. Oh god, it's cold already. Chicago, you sassy beast, you.
2:00 PM - Coffee Quest: "The Wormhole Coffee" Everyone raves about this place. Apparently, they have a Tardis phone booth inside. A Tardis! I might actually geek out. Impression: Okay, the Tardis is cool, I'll admit. The coffee? Strong. Seriously, I feel like I could run a marathon now. Which, let’s be real, I’m not going to. But still. Energized, and that's the aim.
- Anecdote: Okay, about the coffee. I ordered a latte, thinking I was being sophisticated. Turns out, I spilled half of it down my front. In front of the barista. My face was beet red. He just smiled and gave me extra napkins. Bless him.
3:00 PM - Bookstore Binge: "Myopic Books" This place… this place. It's a labyrinth of literary treasures. I could get lost in here for days. Actually, I did lose my phone for a solid 20 minutes. Impression: Overwhelmingly wonderful. It smells like old paperbacks and possibility. I bought three books I absolutely didn’t need, but I needed them, you know?
- Observation: The sheer volume of people in this bookstore felt as though I am in a maze! I felt so lost. And I loved it. I did see someone tripping over a stack of books though. I laughed a little.
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM - The Food Hunt: "Piece Brewery and Pizzeria" Everyone and their mother raves about their pizza and beer. I'm in.
- Anecdote: So, the pizza was fantastic. Absolutely phenomenal. But, the noise level? I can barely hear myself think, and I'm pretty sure I overheard an entire breakup happening at the table next to me. Chicagoans are intense, I'll give them that.
- Observation: The atmosphere is pure Chicago energy. It’s loud, chaotic, and gloriously messy. I love it.
7:30 PM - Back to the Inn. Maybe. Honestly, I'm exhausted. But, that's the best feeling.
Day 2: Deep Dish, Design, and Definite Regrets
9:00 AM - The Great Deep-Dish Debate: "Lou Malnati's Pizzeria" This is it. The Chicago rite of passage. Deep-dish pizza. It's heavy, it's cheesy, and it's probably going to make me nap for the rest of the day.
- Opinionated Language: Okay, so I'm going to be honest here. I'm not sure the hype is entirely justified. It was good. Really good. But I wouldn’t say it changed my worldview. However, I ate like a king, and I'm not entirely mad about it.
11:00 AM - Wicker Park Design Exploration: Let's explore the boutiques and art galleries that are near the Inn. Let's say, "The Silver Room", sounds awesome.
2:00 PM - "The Silver Room" This place is pretty amazing. A small selection of art, as well as clothing for sale. I am in need of a gift.
3:00 PM - Regret and a "Late Night" walk around Wicker Park. We have to walk and see what Wicker Park is about, so this is happening.
- Anecdote: Okay, so I saw a very cute dog, and now I want a dog. I'm not sure my apartment is big enough for me and a dog.
8:00 PM - Final Dinner: "Dove's Luncheonette"
- Impression: I loved the food.
Day 3: Departure and the Aftermath
10:00 AM - Farewells and Goodbyes: Check out of the Wicker Park Inn, and head to the airport.
11:00 AM - Last Minute Souvenir Run: Let's stop by a shop, for a Chicago souvenir.
2:00 PM - "Chicago" Goodbye Chicago. You were amazing. Till we meet again.
Post-Trip Ramblings (Because, Honestly, That's the Best Part):
- So, Chicago is… a lot. A beautiful, messy, loud, delicious, and sometimes overwhelming lot. I definitely ate too much pizza. I probably spent too much money. I definitely didn't see everything. But I saw enough. I felt enough. And that's what matters, right?
- Next time? I’m bringing a better map. Maybe a friend who speaks fluent Chicagoan. And definitely, more stretchy pants.
- Also, I'm still thinking about that deep-dish pizza… and the cute dog. And the books. Oh, the books…
- Overall Feeling: Tired, full, and utterly, completely, and wonderfully satisfied.
Escape to Wicker Park: The REAL Deal FAQs (Because Let's Be Honest, Tourist Websites Aren't Always Accurate!)
Okay, spill it. Is Wicker Park actually "chic"? Because I've seen some things...
Alright, let's get this straight. "Chic" is a loaded word. Yes, there's a certain... *vibe* to Wicker Park. Think exposed brick, art galleries that lowkey intimidate you, and people who wear scarves indoors. But it's not all perfectly coiffed hair and designer bags. You'll also find, and this is the best part, people rocking thrift-store finds, dogs sporting more attitude than some humans, and the glorious, messy reality of a real neighborhood. It’s like, you walk down the street and see someone in a vintage Chanel dress and another person, like me, with coffee stains on their shirt (which happened THIS MORNING, by the way!). Chic *adjacent*, maybe? Definitely worth it.
Tell me about the rooms at "Escape." Are they… actually nice or just Instagram-nice?
Okay, so here's the thing. I stayed in the "Bohemian Rhapsody" room. And it was... a mixed bag. The pictures online? Gorgeous. Seriously, perfect lighting, the pillows looked like fluffy clouds, the whole deal. Reality? Well, the clouds were a tad... lumpy. (My fault, I probably messed them up). But on the plus side, the bed? AMAZING. I could have happily lived in that bed and just ordered room service (which, sidenote: the room service IS nice). Yes, some things weren’t *exactly* as pristine as the photos, but still you're not going to find a moldy room, or dust bunnies the size of small dogs. That's a win. The bathroom was a little cozy, to be honest, for someone my size. Like, a tiny little dance to get into the shower. However, the water pressure was excellent, and that makes a HUGE difference.
My Advice: Don't go expecting perfection. Go expecting a cool place with a great bed and a convenient location.
Is the location actually "in the heart of Wicker Park?" 'Cause I hate walking... especially uphill.
"Heart" might be a slight exaggeration... unless your heart is, like, a block and a half away. It's really close. You can practically smell the overpriced coffee and vintage clothing from the Inn. It's on a quiet street close to the main drag (Milwaukee Avenue), which is a huge plus. No uphill climbing to speak of, thankfully! And trust me, after devouring a deep-dish pizza (because, Chicago!), your legs will thank you. Honestly, the location is a major selling point. Everything you could want is a short walk or a quick ride away. If you're a "car person" you might have to deal with parking, but hey, that's part of the Windy City charm, right? (I, a terrible driver, avoided bringing a car).
What's the breakfast situation? "Complimentary gourmet breakfast"? Don't get my hopes up...
Okay, so I am an avid breakfast eater. I'm talking, I make a serious effort. I got to tell you, the breakfast... was fine. It wasn't, like, life-altering gourmet, but it wasn’t a sad continental breakfast situation, either. Think fresh fruit, pastries, yogurt, and the hot feature rotates (eggs, bacon, maybe some kind of fancy oatmeal concoction that I was too scared to try). It's perfectly acceptable, and it means you can fuel up before hitting the shops or a museum. Free food is always a win in my book, and I’ll never say no to a croissant!
What is there to do in Wicker Park, besides look cool?
Okay, aside from the mandatory people-watching (it's a competitive sport), Wicker Park (and neighboring Bucktown) has tons to offer. You have amazing restaurants, from casual to "I need to book a month in advance and wear a blazer." Great shopping (vintage, boutiques, the works). Live music venues (like, REAL venues, not your cousin's garage band). Art galleries galore. The 606 Trail is nearby for a walk, run, or bike ride. And the Blue Line (CTA train) is super accessible, so you can easily hop downtown or explore other neighborhoods. Let’s be real, you're gonna be spending 50% of your time eating. And the other 49.99%? Staring at the food, then documenting the food.
Is it noisy? I'm a light sleeper.
Depends. The rooms themselves seemed pretty soundproof. But like, you're in the city. Expect some street noise, especially on weekends. I brought earplugs, and they were a lifesaver! During the week, it's more subdued. But, like, if loud cars make you crazy, maybe opt for a remote lodge in the middle of nowhere. I am a relatively light sleeper, and I did ok.
Any hidden gems or local tips you can share? Need the *real* scoop...
Okay, so the REAL insider tips. Don't just stick to the chain coffee shops! Go explore the independent cafes. I actually found this tiny little place called "The Coffee Bean" and it was SO GOOD. I went there every morning. Get gelato. And don’t be afraid to deviate from the "popular" restaurants. Sometimes the best meals are found by accident. Do some window shopping! Wicker Park is one place where you can have a good time just looking. Okay, go to the bookstore. You can never go wrong with a good bookstore.
Would you stay there again? Be honest!
Honestly? Yeah, probably. Despite the few oddities, I really enjoyed my stay at Escape to Wicker Park. It has a great location, a comfortable bed, the breakfast did its job, and a few moments of "OMG, I wish I had a better camera" moments. And let's be honest, you need to stay somewhere when visiting a big city. If you want to explore Wicker Park and appreciate the area, then yes, absolutely.
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