Two years ago, my husband and I were invited to a wedding at the Four Seasons Hotel in Chicago. Since one night was paid for, we decided to go on a Friday and spend an extra night. It was expensive, but the experience was worth it.

We arrived around 2:00 pm and were able to check in right away. The reception staff were very efficient and welcoming. It was too late for lunch and too early for dinner. The receptionist suggested tea in the conservatory, so after freshening up we went downstairs to one of the most beautifully decorated rooms we have ever seen. The walls are paneled in rich dark wood. Small conversation areas are arranged with small tables and comfortable chairs. We were served a wonderful array of small sandwiches, scones and tea breads with double Devon cream and preserves. There was a wide variety of teas to choose from including Himalayan Darjeeling which I had never tried. The different teas are described on the menu.

Although not a suite, the room was large, well proportioned, and overlooked Lake Michigan. The bed was luxurious and we had a wonderful night’s sleep. The room and the view were wonderful; we asked for breakfast to be delivered to our room so we could enjoy relaxing by the window. As the wedding was later that day, we were able to take advantage of the pool, which was in a Romanesque setting under a glass dome. I wish we could have spent more time there. The wedding in the Grand Ballroom was lovely. I wasn’t in a generic windowless room. The grand staircase was just one of the features that made it appear to be in a great old English house.

The food was excellent, not just the usual fare. Our plane was leaving later on Sunday so we were able to take advantage of the great location. It is very centrally located for some lovely shops, the lake and cultural sites. We were able to walk around, window shop and have coffee. I should point out that the Four Seasons Hotel has coffee in the lobby every morning, as well as fresh lemonade in the afternoon. I honestly can’t think of anything that has disappointed us. We still mention the experience from time to time and look forward to our next visit.