Darien Vacations from $408

Enjoyed the somewhat quiet location at the end of Navy Pier. Highlight was watching the fireworks out on the lake (as well as storms) from our window. Beautiful view. Did not like the mandatory Navy Pier/resort fee but that seems increasingly standard other places as well. Overall wonderful stay.

Hotel amenities were great, and the suite was nice enough. The mattress was a little springy, but not terrible. I was frustrated by finding out about an amenities fee at the end that added roughly $100 to my cost at the hotel. That felt a lot like the “hidden fee” that so many booking services seek to advertise not having. That hotel would probably say that they don’t hide that fee, that it’s stated in the hotel stay conditions or something to that affect; but I’d argue that most people staying there for the first time are probably unaware of the fee prior to coming. If they want to charge an additional amount for the amenities at the hotel (which I admit are great), put the cost for the amenities into the price per night for the room itself. If you advertise the amenities at the hotel as a perk of staying there, consider that part of the upfront price rather than something that’s informed to you as you check out.