Luxury Staycation: Chicago's Hidden Gem - SpringHill Suites Lincolnshire!
My Slightly Chaotic, Totally Honest Take on the SpringHill Suites Lincolnshire (Chicago’s Hidden Gem… Maybe?)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea (and maybe some lukewarm coffee from the lobby) on my recent staycation at the SpringHill Suites in Lincolnshire, just north of Chicago. This place bills itself as a "hidden gem," and frankly, after a week of back-to-back meetings and way too much takeout, I was READY for some gem-finding and… well, maybe a nap.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, With a Sprinkle of Hope
Let's be real, accessibility is HUGE for me. I'm not in a wheelchair, but my back has a vendetta. So, I started there. The website said accessible rooms, and the elevator was a godsend (thank you, elevator!). However, I had to call ahead to double-check on specific room features, which felt like a mini-adventure in itself. Getting accurate info pre-arrival sometimes felt like pulling teeth, if I'm being honest. Still, the ease of the hotel's exterior and common areas gave a good first impression.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Good, the Okay, and the Slightly Concerning
COVID-era travel is a minefield, right? SpringHill Suites at least tried. They had the usual suspects: hand sanitizer stations galore, staff wearing masks (though, let’s face it, sometimes they slipped under the nose – c'mon guys!). Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Supposedly, but I wasn’t exactly trailing the cleaning crew. The "individually-wrapped food options" felt a bit… sad, like a tiny, sad consolation prize for the buffet that used to be. Seriously, I miss a good pancake station!
The Hygiene certification paperwork wasn’t exactly hanging on a wall for me to admire, but I trust that a respectable chain like SpringHill Suites would at least try to keep up with proper practices.
Cleanliness is a good starting point, but how deep did that go!
Here’s where things got… messy. The little “safety/security feature” details like the CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms were all comforting enough, and the Safe dining setup was pretty decent, but the devil's in the details. I spotted a dusty corner near the elevators, and I swear, I saw a rogue crumb on the buffet table (before the sad individual-wrapped croissants). The individually-wrapped food options felt a bit disappointing – like a sad consolation prize for the buffet that used to be. I missed a good pancake station!
Rooms: The Good, The Less Good, and My Battle with the Blackout Curtains
Okay, let's talk room. The available in all rooms is a nice baseline to start with. My room, a Non-smoking paradise (thank GOD), was equipped with everything you'd expect – Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes (yes!), Bathtub, Blackout curtains (more on those later, ugh!), Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Desk, Extra long bed (score!), Free bottled water, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, and Wi-Fi [free]. Whew! That’s a lot of amenities!
Now for the REAL talk: those Blackout curtains. Seriously, they were like a grumpy, rebellious teenager of the room. They sort of worked, but I swear, there was always a sliver of annoying sunlight peeking through, taunting me. I may or may not have wrestled with them for a solid five minutes each morning. (My sanity probably didn’t love it!) Pro-tip: Pack a clothespin. You'll thank me.
The Internet Experience: Oh, the Irony!
Internet access seemed abundant – Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Wi-Fi [free]. Funny thing is, I ended up relying on my own hotspot at times due to the Wi-Fi being sometimes slow. Ironic, considering the hotel's dedication to internet.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Buffet Blues and Bar Bliss
Here’s where things got… interesting. The Breakfast [buffet] (or, the sad remnants thereof) was a real letdown. I missed the glory days of the full spread. The Asian breakfast seemed like a missed opportunity, and the Asian cuisine in restaurant wasn’t exactly mind-blowing. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was… well, it was there.
BUT. The Bar? Now we were talking. It was a small space, but cozy. The Poolside bar was closed for the season. The Happy hour was a decent value, and the bartender knew how to make a decent Old Fashioned. A Bottle of water was included to compensate for the missing water pressure in the bathroom.
Things to Do: A Deep Dive into Relaxation (and Maybe Mild Disappointment)
My mission: RELAX. I hit the (unremarkable, but functional) Fitness center for a quick workout. The Pool with view was seasonal, but the hotel boasts a Sauna, Spa, and Steamroom, although limited use. No Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage to get on my relaxation list, but I did get in a session at the steam room.
Services and Conveniences: The "Meh" and the "Oh, That's Nice!"
The usual suspects were present: Air conditioning in public area, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes. The Gift/souvenir shop was a bit meh. The Convenience store saved me from a late-night snack attack (thank you, little Cheetos bag!).
The Extras: Not a Lot of Fluff
No Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal, so this isn't really the place for a family getaway. If you're looking for something intimate with your partner, you could try a Couple's room.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy
Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site] – huge win! Airport transfer – I didn’t use it, but it was available.
The Verdict: Hidden Gem… With Caveats
Would I go back? Maybe. It's a decent option for a quiet staycation, especially if you prioritize cleanliness and convenience. But don't expect a luxury experience. Maybe "Comfortable Escape with a Slightly Rusty Polish" would be a better descriptor.
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Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your breezy, perfectly-polished travel itinerary. This is real life, Chicago-style, with a pit-stop at a SpringHill Suites in Lincolnshire. Let's see if we survive this.
Day 1: Arrival – AKA The Great Bag Shuffle
Time: All afternoon, basically. Chicago traffic, you know?
Destination: O'Hare International Airport to SpringHill Suites Chicago Lincolnshire.
Means: Uber. Pray to the traffic gods.
The Vibe: Exhausted. Seriously, I swear I boarded the plane with all my internal organs in their proper place, and now… well, let's just say they've rearranged themselves to a more "splatter-art" aesthetic. Arrived in Chicago, got my bags finally.
The Mess: Okay, so, the original plan was to snag a direct train. "Easy peasy," I thought. HA. Turns out, "easy peasy" in Chicago translates to "a 40-minute delay, a broken escalator, and the distinct aroma of questionable hot dogs." Uber it is. But, hey, at least the driver had good taste in music. Some kind of old-school R&B playlist. I swear, I almost started crying with relief when I heard it. It was exactly what I needed.
Quirky Observation: The sheer number of people wearing Chicago Cubs hats. Is it a uniform? A secret society greeting? I'm legitimately intrigued.
Emotional Reaction: Mildly annoyed with the airport. Immensely grateful for the Uber driver. That playlist was a godsend, I tell ya.
Food: Probably skipped lunch. Now, I am STARVING. Need sustenance.
Late Afternoon into Early Evening: Check-in, unpack (or at least, attempt to unpack – let's be honest, the suitcase will probably remain a chaotic portal to my belongings for the entire trip), and survey the suite.
The Vibe: Finally, some peace. (Maybe.)
The Good: The suite is surprisingly spacious. And clean! A plus!
The Bad: Oh, the bed. It feels like a marshmallow that’s slowly sinking into memory foam. I could literally fall asleep.
Emotional Reaction: Relief, tinged with a tiny bit of panic. I'm alone. Deep breaths. It's going to be okay.
Food: Okay, the hotel’s got a little market, so I grab a bag of chips and some watered-down soda. Gotta survive.
Evening/Night: Head into Lincolnshire, IL and seek dinner.
Destination: Lincolnshire's Main Street to find dinner
The Vibe: I am in need of social interaction. That is what this trip is for.
Food: The one experience I was after, and it got me completely consumed. I’ve chosen a restaurant called "Wildfire".
- The Good: The smell of the food from the front door was amazing and the server, bless her, was amazing and super attentive and enthusiastic.
- The Bad: I chose a pasta dish from the menu that I was quite excited about. The moment it came to the table I was completely and utterly crushed. The dish was so cold the butter had hardened. I ordered a new dish, and the same thing happened. The server was very apologetic.
- Emotional Reaction: I went from euphoric anticipation to the crushing weight of disappointment in the span of two dishes. I was completely devastated. I literally just asked for the check.
- Quirky Observation: The people at the table behind me are having the time of their lives. Like, laughing hysterically. Meanwhile, I am eating cold pasta.
Nightcap: Retreat back to the hotel for the night.
Day 2: Exploring the Lincolnshire Area – The Search for Joy
- Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. (Free continental breakfast? Let's hope for the best.)
- The Vibe: Cautiously Optimistic. Still a little shaky from the pasta fiasco.
- Food: Well, the free breakfast is what it is. I grab some fruit and some yogurt. Also… a stale bagel. Sigh.
- Mid-Morning: Decision time. I've got some options.
- Option 1: The Artsy Approach. The Marriott is close to the Marriott Theatre. A quick look at the schedule might show me something to see!
- Option 2: The Nature Lover. I've heard Lincolnshire has some nice parks/nature preserves. Need to decide where.
- Option 3: The Retail Therapy. I'm not much of a shopper, but maybe a little browsing would be good. I'll go with the shopping, since I'm closer to the shops.
- Decision: I make my way to the shops.
- The Vibe: The world seems a bit brighter, and I like the atmosphere.
- Food: Had lunch at the mall. Decided to go to "L.A. Brisket". It's a place that I wanted to try.
- The Good: The food was amazing. I was so happy to be there. The brisket was succulent and I just enjoyed the food, atmosphere and the people.
- The Bad: I did not have enough cash.
- Emotional Reaction: I actually let out a small sigh of relief when I saw the food. And the taste was phenomenal.
- Quirky Observation: The people at the table were just happy to be there.
- Late Afternoon: Back to the hotel to relax, journal, and contemplate the meaning of life. Or, you know, watch some TV.
- Evening: Dinner. If the Wildfire pasta dishes were still on my mind, I'd be in ruins. I decided to order an order-in from a local place I saw recommended.
- The Vibe: Hopeful. Hungry again.
- Food: Pizza. It was… acceptable. Nothing to write home about, but it filled a void.
- Night: Bed, and hopefully some actual sleep. The memory foam is calling my name.
Day 3: Departure – Farewell, Lincolnshire (and hopefully, fewer cold pasta dishes)
- Morning: Final continental breakfast. Cautiously optimistic about the bagel situation.
- Vibe: Bittersweet. Sad to leave, but also ready to go home to my familiar chaos.
- Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Check out of the hotel.
- Moment of Truth: The Uber ride BACK to O'Hare. Pray for smooth sailing.
- The Vibe: Anticipatory. Nervous.
- The Aftermath: Arrived at O'Hare and went to the wrong terminal.
- The Final Thoughts: Chicago! I'll be back, hopefully. Hopefully, with less bad luck with pasta dishes. The people are great, and the food can be too, just watch out for the temperature of your pasta. And, seriously, that Cubs hat thing… I still don't get it.
- Emotional Reaction: Exhaustion, relief, a slight craving for really good pasta. And the memory of a playlist that saved my sanity.
Luxury Staycation: SpringHill Suites Lincolnshire - The Real Deal (Or Is It?) - FAQ's That Actually Matter
Okay, spill the beans. Is this SpringHill Suites really "luxury" or just... "nicer than Motel 6"?
Alright, alright, settle down. "Luxury" is a stretch, let's be real. It's not the Ritz, folks. But for a staycation? Especially if you're stuck in the Chicagoland area and craving a break without, you know, *actually* leaving your state? SpringHill Suites Lincolnshire (let's just call it "The Hill" from now on, 'cause that's what I'm doing) punches *way* above its weight. Think: upgraded amenities. Think: not-terrible breakfast (emphasis on not-terrible, more later). Think: a genuinely comfy bed where you can actually *sleep* after a day of dealing with… well, life. Honestly, it’s kinda *shocking* how good it can feel. I mean, I went in expecting… meh. I left feeling… refreshed. Almost.
Let's talk rooms. Are they like, cramped and depressing, or can actual humans fit in there without knocking over furniture?
Okay, room size. Truth time. They are *suites*. Yes, seriously. There’s a decent separate “living” area (notice the air quotes, it’s not a ballroom!). It’s not a palace, but you can actually, you know, spread out! I actually *walked* into the wall once trying to navigate in the dark. Totally my fault, but just, heads up. I mean, it's not the Four Seasons, people. But for chilling in your sweats and ordering room service (yes, they *do* partner with restaurants, bless their hearts), it’s perfect. I spent, like, a solid hour just staring at the TV… because I could. And that, my friends, is the essence of a staycation. Freedom. Sort of.
The breakfast. That's where it all falls apart, right? Is it the usual sad continental affair?
Listen, I'm a breakfast snob. A *massive* breakfast snob. I judge all hotels by their breakfast buffet. The Hill, bless its heart, *tries*. Emphasis on *tries*. I mean, the waffles are... well, they're waffles. The eggs are… kind of… rubbery. But there's an omelet station! And that, my friends, saves the day. I saw this… kid, maybe 10 years old, absolutely *devouring* his omelet. Like, plates and plates of it. And you know what? I saw him, and I knew he was living his best life. So, yeah, omelet station. Worth it. Go for it. Just… don’t expect gourmet. But you will get full. And they had decent coffee. Because let's be honest, that's what really matters.
Okay, what about the pool? Is it a crowded, chlorine-soaked hellhole, or a relaxing oasis?
Alright, the pool. Okay, I'm going to be honest here. I am not a pool person. I get cold too easily, and I don't like sharing my personal space with strangers and their kids. But I *did* peek. And... it looked okay. Smaller than I expected. Cleanish. There were kids, of course. Splashing. Screaming. You know, the usual. It’s not a resort pool, let’s just put it that way. But, that said... it was indoors, which is a huge win if it's, like, December. So... maybe you could enjoy it. Maybe. I'm more of a "sit on the couch and watch bad TV" kind of vacationer. But hey, if you like pools, you know, it's there.
Location, location, location! Is it actually *near* anything interesting? Or am I just gonna be staring at highway for the duration?
The location, *sigh*. Okay, it's in Lincolnshire. Which, let's be real, isn't exactly the pulsing heart of excitement. It's not downtown Chicago, that's for sure. It's in the 'burbs, surrounded by businesses and… well, businesses. BUT! It's close to the Lincolnshire Marriott Theatre, which can be pretty fun for a night out. And there are some decent restaurants within a short drive. Seriously, a short drive. There's a Cheesecake Factory! Always a win in my book. Oh, and a Trader Joe's! (I think…) The hotel’s location is definitely a trade-off. Peace and quiet vs. a million things to do. You decide. Me? I was fine with the peace and quiet. Needed it. Badly.
Let's talk Service. Is it the standard robotic hotel experience, or do they actually *care*?
Okay, service. This is where The Hill actually *shone*. And it wasn't a blinding, over-the-top, "we're trying *too* hard" shine. It was just… genuinely nice. Check-in was smooth. The staff were friendly. Helpful. Like, actually smiled and seemed to... you know… *care*. This is a big deal, folks. I once accidentally tripped over a plant in the lobby. Don't ask. It was a long day. The front desk person *saw* it, and, instead of laughing or staring, she asked if I was okay! And she helped me carry my ridiculously heavy bag to the elevator. (I may have overpacked..). It was just... nice. Simple. Genuine. So yes, the service gets a thumbs up from me. It actually *made* the staycation better. More relaxed. Less… stressful, you know?
Tell me about the noise levels. Can you actually sleep? Or are you stuck listening to slamming doors and screaming kids all night?
Noise levels. A critical question, especially for me. I'm practically a professional sleeper. I need my zzz's, people! And, I'm happy to report... The Hill was pretty good. Significantly better than some places I've stayed. I mean, there's always *some* noise. Slamming doors (inevitable). The occasional kid (they exist, deal with it). But overall? Peaceful. Blissful. My room was surprisingly quiet. I was so relaxed that I actually slept through the fire alarm test! Which, okay, I know I should have been paying more attention, but it just illustrates how truly, wonderfully, sleep-inducing the place was. So, big points for sleep quality. Important.
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