Every once in a while, we like to trade in our hiking shoes, tents, and cabins for something a little more lux. This typically happens when visiting family in Chicago and the Atlanta area because we spend more time exploring and engaging in urban and tourist-like settings, so it works!
After three long years away from my hometown, Chicago, I wanted our recent visit to keep us close to family, so choosing to stay in Downtown Hyde Park was an easy decision. I also knew I wanted the boys to see that luxury can be enjoyed in many ways and spaces. It was a treat showing them in an area I spent a lot of time in while growing up in Chicago.
Here's my review of Sophy Hyde Park.
*We were Hosted by Sophy Hyde Park, but all opinions are mine
The Hotel
Sophy Hyde Park is a boutique hotel featuring 98 rooms featuring hardwood, beautiful local art, record players, and vinyl records of local musicians. You're welcomed by the warmth of the large double-sided fireplace, inviting couches, and the majesty of the lobby chandelier as soon as you enter the lobby. With such a grand lobby, we wondered if the room would live up to the great first impression.
As we made our way from the lobby to the room, we made sure to take in the art. One of our favorite pieces was the Penny Portrait of President Barack Obama near the elevator. The boys were amazed that someone could capture Obama's likeness with pennies. Once we made it to our floor, we continued admiring the art-lined halls and were impressed with the attention given, making each room feel like its own little apartment. The room itself was well decorated and included hardwood, a marble bath, an oversized walk-in shower, plush robes relaxing sitting area, a record player with vinyls, a coffee maker, an electric kettle, and a mini fridge. The beds were comfortable and flanked by more locally sourced art creating a seamless connection between the lobby and the rooms.
Dining at Sophy Hyde Park
Unfortunately, the onsite restaurant, Mesler Kitchen, was closed for most of our stay. But we did get to enjoy the chef-curated menu right before checking out. We ordered the staff-recommended Spicy Fried Chicken sandwich, the lobster roll, the caesar salad, deviled eggs, and the day's soup. We enjoyed all the selections, with the soup being the favorite among my husband and me. We ended up ordering a bowl to go because it was that good!
If planning to visit the Mesler, check the times when each menugoes into effect and plan accordingly.
Things to do onsite
Although I had good intentions, I never went to the onsite gym. But it's available for those with more will and discipline than me. You can also go on a self-guided art tour around the hotel; the collection is worth checking out in-depth if you have time. One of the best things you can do at Sophy Hyde Park is relaxing and enjoy the luxurious accommodations.
Things to do nearby
If you're itching to get out, there's plenty to do within walking distance, such as parks, and historical markers, exploring 53rd street restaurants and shops, viewing street art, and more. The renowned Museum of Science and Industry, the University of Chicago, Lakefront trails, DuSable Museum of African American History, and Midway park are a long walk or short drive away from Sophy.
We loved our stay at Sophy Hyde Park and can't wait to stay again. Next time you visit Chicago, consider staying at Sophy and exploring Hyde Park.
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