In a world where convenience and technology are reshaping our expectations about travel and hospitality, many of us are left to wonder at what cost? While virtual concierges and electronic check-ins have their place in our fast-paced world, what happened to the times when a hotel was not simply a place to stay but rather an important part of the travel experience? Thankfully, there are still hotels like Elysian Chicago that uphold the belief that hotels are meant to be a cornerstone of a truly memorable trip.

Room 2303's Living Room

Located in downtown Chicago, Elysian is committed to providing guests with quality service that isn’t easily duplicated, even at lavish hotels. Its 188 guestrooms average 890 square feet, and with only 10 rooms per floor, guests won’t feel like their personal comfort is being sacrificed so the hotel can fit in as many rooms as possible. As many hotel patrons are aware, amenities are the secret ingredient to a perfect hotel recipe, and this notion isn’t lost on Elysian. Vi-Spring luxury beds are draped in 460-thread count Italian linens, and spacious closets ensure you won’t be living out of your suitcase. White marble bathrooms complete with soaking tubs provide the type of tranquil environment that’s essential to any luxury hotel. And with rooms decorated in champagne and platinum hues—the perfect backdrop to enjoy the fireplace or furnished terraces—you’ll feel as if you’ve found a room fit for a king or queen.

The hotel is located in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, which makes it the perfect location for those looking to explore all of the exciting activities that have put the Windy City on the map. Elysian is two blocks away from Michigan Avenue; a block away from Oak Street, which is known to be the Rodeo Drive of Chicago; two blocks away from the lake and the John Hancock Center; and quick cab ride to the Art Institute of Chicago.

While plenty of fine-dining options are within walking distance of Elysian, some of the city’s best dining can be found within the walls of the hotel. Executive Chef Jason McLeod presides over the hotel’s two restaurants, Balsan and Ria. Centered around fresh, local ingredients, Balsan is a European-style bistro that serves up traditional dishes and modern takes on American cuisine, while Ria will tantalize your taste buds with innovative seafood dishes.

Elysian reminds us that even in the wake of increasing efficiency, quick fixes to long checkout lines and in-room iPads with built-in city guides are no substitution for excellent customer service and first-rate accommodations. So dust off your crown and get ready to be treated like the royalty you are at Elysian.