If you knew the whole story about how we eventually came to our accommodations in Chicago, you’d understand why I appreciate the Embassy Suites so very much.
The hard thing was trying to accommodate all eight of us initially, and then, when one of our mother-daughter couples opted out, to find a way to squeeze the remaining six into one place. Thanks to Mama C, we were blessed to land here.
It might seem a small thing, but accommodations can make a big difference on a trip. Earlier, we were considering everything from Air B&Bs that seemed hip and fun to our teen daughters but a little too sketchy for our motherly sensibilities; to downtown hotels that seemed fancy but had reviews mentioning amenities such as cockroaches and dusty crevices; to nicer hotels that would require long commutes into the city. Given all the variables, this place was, by my estimation, a dream.
Though I love traveling, my traveling opportunities come fairly infrequently, so I appreciate the chance to hang out in a clean hotel in a city. The center was so bright and I enjoyed our trips up and down the glass elevator; from this view they reminded me a little of a Star Wars scene.
Zoom in to see my daughter covering her head with a blanket because she thought I was taking a picture of her. 🙂 Silly girl!
Chipping in three ways, the price also was right. Additionally, delicious buffet breakfasts were included (big plus) — not to mention afternoon happy hour with appetizers each day — and best of all, we were situated right in the heart of the city. Rarely did we need to summon Uber. Along with our nice jaunts in the beautiful spring weather, we also happily discovered a free trolley car that could bring us to the pier, or art institute, and back. Nearly every hoped-for destination was within walking distance, including an historic Catholic church – more on that later.
Ending up here after our long train ride refreshed body and soul, and after a little reprieve, we were ready for our first look at the city, with the goal of our first meal being deep-dish pizza. The Chicas were ready, too!
Take 2, with the guy in the back spying on us…ha!
Onward!
We walked in search of the right place, and found Pizzeria Uno, where Chicago deep-dish pizza originates.
After placing our orders, we headed across the street to Bloomingdale’s to browse while our pizzas cooked
Inside, a feast for the eyes unfolded. Though shopping, even when just perusing, tends to overwhelm and drain me, the array of colors tantalized!
After taking in all I could, I rested a bit at the entrance…
…then headed outside to absorb the city sights. Uno’s was directly across the street.
It was here, during my people-watching pause, that I noticed the uniqueness of the Bloomingdale’s building. I’d seen a display about this inside, but only later learned more of its interesting history.
Finally, it was time to indulge. We hadn’t eaten a lot since the train so we all enjoyed our personal-sized pizzas in this quaint little eatery.
The climax of our adventures yet to cone, we began craving rest. And so we made our way back through the city streets.
A view of the receding sun from our hotel room beckoned us into dreamland, and into imagining all that our first full day in Chicago would entail.
Q4U: Have you had Chicago-style deep-dish pizza in Chicago? What did you think? What’s your favorite kind of pizza and why?
The picture of your hotel with the elevators visible is like Star Wars. Great find. They’d love your review. If I ever go to Chicago, I’ll try to get a room there. The pizza looks yummy. I’ve had Chicago style pizza, and I’ve been to Chicago, a long time ago, so I don’t remember where I ate. hmm?
Thanks Mary. I had the thought too of doing a review through Trip Advisor. With your encouragement I do think I will. I would definitely stay there again.