Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Lake Forest/Mettawa

This hotel is celebrated for its exceptional staff and their dedication to guest satisfaction, making it feel like a second home for many. Its signature feature is the consistently delicious breakfast and the warm, personalized service provided by the breakfast team. Guests frequently highlight the spotless cleanliness of the property and the spacious rooms equipped with convenient kitchenettes. The hotel's convenient location near major highways and local attractions also makes it a popular choice. It is an ideal fit for business travelers seeking a comfortable and productive stay, families attending events like Navy graduations, and long-term guests who appreciate the home-like atmosphere. To enhance your experience, consider utilizing the well-equipped in-room kitchenettes for extended stays, and be aware that while the location is convenient, some rooms may experience highway noise, so requesting a quieter room could be beneficial.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently praise the hotel's comprehensive facilities and amenities, which cater to both relaxation and practical needs. The indoor pool is a popular feature, especially among families, described as clean, well-maintained, and often uncrowded. A well-equipped fitness center provides guests with options for maintaining their workout routines, featuring a functional trainer and a convenient water dispenser. For leisure, a dedicated room with a pool table offers entertainment. A significant highlight is the inclusion of kitchenettes in the rooms, complete with a full-size refrigerator, stove top, microwave, and dishwasher, along with essential dishes and pans, making extended stays particularly comfortable. Some rooms also offer modern touches like wireless charging. Additionally, the hotel provides an outdoor barbecue area and a shuttle bus service to local industries, enhancing convenience for various travelers. The property also features ADA facilities, including accessible parking, rooms, and showers.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel receives widespread acclaim for its spotless cleanliness throughout the property, with guests frequently describing rooms as immaculately clean and well-maintained. The spacious rooms are consistently noted as a significant advantage, often feeling like suites and providing ample space for relaxation. Guests generally find the comfortable beds and pillows conducive to a restful night's sleep, though a few noted beds could be firmer or pillows older. While the overall room condition is positive, some reviews mention that certain furniture pieces appear well-worn or the decor feels a bit dated, suggesting a need for hotel updates. A recurring point of mixed feedback is noise levels; while some guests found their rooms quiet, many reported significant traffic noise due to the hotel's proximity to the interstate. Positively, the water pressure in the showers is frequently praised, ensuring a refreshing experience. However, a few guests noted that the air conditioning could be loud or less effective.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a standout feature, consistently receiving rave reviews for its quality, variety, and the exceptional service provided by the breakfast team. Guests describe the breakfast as delicious, fresh, and hot, often calling it the best hotel breakfast they have experienced. The menu offers a wide array of options, including fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, potatoes, and waffles with popular toppings like blueberry compote. Additional choices include muffins, yogurt, oatmeal, bagels, and English muffins. The beverage selection is also comprehensive, featuring various coffee choices, tea, juices, and even oat milk for dietary preferences. The hotel also makes an effort to provide cage-free eggs and gluten-free options, such as muffins and bread, catering to diverse needs. However, it is important to note that the hotel does not feature an on-site restaurant for dinner, nor does it offer room service or a bar for evening dining or drinks.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient location, particularly for those traveling by car, offering easy access to Interstate 94. Situated within a peaceful, secure area, it is surrounded by walking trails and horse farms. Guests appreciate its proximity to various amenities, being just a quick five-minute drive to numerous shopping and dining options. A major convenience is its direct adjacency to Costco. For public transport, the Metra station is only seven minutes away, offering an easy train ride to downtown Chicago. The hotel is also well-positioned for visitors to the Navy basic training base, located approximately 10-15 minutes away, and O'Hare International Airport, about 20 miles distant. While ideal for business trips or Navy graduations, some guests note that there is little within walking distance apart from Costco. On-site parking is readily available and easy to access, though some routes to the Navy base may involve toll roads.

Staff & Service
The hotel's exceptional staff consistently receives the highest praise, with guests frequently highlighting their friendly, helpful, and attentive service. The breakfast service team, particularly Miriam and Adela, are repeatedly singled out for their warm hospitality, personalized care, and dedication to ensuring a delightful start to the day, often going above and beyond to accommodate dietary needs and keep the dining area well-stocked and clean. The front desk staff, including Ariel, Justin, and Alison, are commended for their professionalism, quick check-in process, and willingness to assist with various requests, from providing local guidance to helping with lost items. The housekeeping team is also noted for their outstanding work, maintaining spotless cleanliness and being consistently hardworking and friendly. The hotel's pet-friendly service is appreciated, with staff showing kindness to furry companions. Managers are also recognized for their support in accommodating group accommodation needs. Overall, the staff's genuine kindness and commitment to guest satisfaction create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, making many guests feel like family.

Additional Information
This hotel is particularly well-suited for long-term stays, with many guests reporting extended visits where the property truly felt like home. The hotel maintains a welcoming pet-friendly policy, with staff often providing treats and attention to canine guests. While the property is generally well-maintained and clean, some guests have noted that certain areas or furnishings could benefit from hotel updates to refresh the decor, though this does not detract from the overall positive experience. A unique detail mentioned is the hotel's commitment to professional carpet cleaning, ensuring a high standard of hygiene. Guests can also take advantage of complimentary water bottles available at the front desk, a thoughtful amenity. For those enrolled in loyalty programs, the hotel recognizes and honors rewards program benefits, such as status recognition and perks like complimentary water.