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About Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya is a tourist region along the Carribean coast just south of Cancun Mexico. Originally the location was specific to Playa Del Carmen as the northern border and Tulum to the south, but has since expanded its reach. Unico 2087 isn’t located in a specific town, but is about 30 minutes north of Tulum, right on the ocean. Fun fact, 20 87 refers to Unicos coordinates!

The average high temperature ranges from 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low range is 67-77, depending on the month. It can be very humid so the temperature may feel much warmer than it is.

Unico 2087 has a jungle ecosystem, being further south. We even saw a wild monkey on the property! Rain can sometimes be a concern, so may be important to note that February – May are the least rainy months and October is the rainiest.

I went to Unico 2087 in the middle of February and it rained only one evening. There was a wind advisory one day as well, so that’s something to think about too if you plan on participating in activities that the wind would impact.

Getting to Unico 2087

Unless you live in Mexico, you’ll fly into the Cancun International Airport (CUN) and drive 55 miles to the resort. With no traffic, this takes an hour and fifteen minutes.

Cancun has improved the customs process and it’s so simple to enter with a U.S. passport. Some lines are fully automated, just have your passport scanned, look into a camera, and call it a day. Once outside you’ll see many transportation options (and some places to grab a cocktail). I highly, and I cannot stress this enough, recommend that you pre-arrange your transportation to the hotel.

Unico offers a complimentary shared shuttle service or private service for a price. We used the shuttle on the way to the resort and sprung for a private service on the way back. You may be wondering why we decided what happened on the way there that we decided to pay on the way back. The reason is, I forgot I don’t like people. KIDDING! They inform you upfront that the shuttle may stop at other hotels and that’s exactly what happened. That and there were a LOT of kids on our shuttle to the resort. We decided it was worth the extra money to not have to leave the resort extra early on departure day and save our sanity as an hour and fifteen minutes isn’t exactly a short amount of time to be in close quarters with strangers.

The Resort

• Unico 2087 is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort that opened in 2017, so everything is relatively new.
• The resort is gated even to enter the grounds and has security guards so I never felt unsafe.
• A high percentage of the guests are couples, although I did see some parents/kids (adults, of course) and friends around the resort as well.
• There is free wifi and the signal is pretty strong throughout the resort so having access to the internet is no problem.
• As far as all-inclusives go, Unico is a boutique resort and has 5 restaurants
• You’ll want to download the UnicoRivieraMaya App from the App Store. This is where you’ll see restaurant menus, can make dinner reservations, view the daily entertainment, and more.
• You’ll also want to download WhatsApp since you will have a local host you communicate with through texting. They can arrange activities, manage dinner reservations, and bring drinks to the room.
• Tipping is optional but always appreciated. They happily accept U.S. dollars and I recommend bringing a variety of $5’s, $10’s, and $20’s depending on who you are tipping. For instance, I tip the waitstaff $20 for my first pool cocktail and am good for the day, but I tip $5 at meals. You’ll also want cash to tip the drivers.
• Last, but certainly not least, there is a timeshare offer, which they call Legendary Vacation Club, more on that below.

Legendary Vacation Club

The timeshare component is my biggest complaint with Unico 2087. Mostly because I had no idea this even existed, so hopefully by giving you some insight you can make a well-informed decision. Excellence Playa Mujeres doesn’t offer timeshares which is why I was completely caught off guard. Apparently this is a common thing at all-inclusive resorts.

Upon check-in, the person checking us in (who was not part of the front desk staff because a large party was checking in so they had this person do it instead) brought up the Legendary Vacation Club membership. After a long travel day I was exhausted and parched (no welcome drink was offered – see: large party checking in) so it took me a minute to realize the Legendary Vacation Club is a timeshare. I shut the conversation down quickly and didn’t get pulled into the presentation.

If you are open to the presentation I believe the offer was two free massages in the spa, so not nothing, but I was on vacation to relax, not to get sold too. He asked if he could come around the pool the next day to essentially continue his sales pitch to me, of which I said no, and was shocked since I told him my goal on this short trip was to relax and read with a boozy beverage.

The resort blocks off certain section for “members only”, like parts of the beach and pools

I have no idea the details of the membership, or how much it costs, this is more to inform you that this is something you will have to deal with. I know it doesn’t bother some, but without knowing it is even a thing, I found it quite jarring and unpleasant.

Rooms

I LOVE the rooms at Uncio! The vibe is like chic boutique hotel instead of a typical tropical resort. We booked it during Cyber Monday so some rooms were sold out. Since it was a last-minute(ish) trip, we just went ahead with booking the Alcoba Ocean View – King Bed Room.

Depending on what you are looking for depends on which building you should request. Some are closer to the quiet pool, some are closer to the beach. I suggest you reach out to the hotel prior to checking in and see if they can accommodate. They are very responsive via email.

• Bed | The king-size bed is SO comfortable. I got the best night’s sleep, every single night. They even offer a pillow menu if you are particular about those.
• Balcony | The balcony is huge and has a jacuzzi tub, sofa, side table, and coffee table. The lounging area is perfect for having cocktails, playing card games, reading, and relaxing. Note, the switch to turn on the lights is inside and may be hidden by the curtains. It took us a bit of time to find that.
• Bathroom | Psudo open concept but the toilet has a door, which is GREAT! Double sinks give you plenty of space to get ready and the shower is also a good size. No complaints about water pressure. The only thing I found odd was that housekeeping replenished some of the towels, but not every towel we used so I was kind of conserving near the end.
• TV | I know you are on vacation so you might not care about TV, but hear me out. We were there during the Super Bowl, plus I just love TV (as you may know from my IG) so it’s something I always look at. In fact, I travel with a Fire Stick to have all the steaming apps readily available. If you do this, do not forget the remote at home. I digress, the TV is big, new, and great!
• Mini Bar | The mini fridge is stocked with Pepsi products (no Coke which I do NOT love), beer, and water. There are also snacks. You may notice I did not include what is usually in a bar and that is alcohol and wine. Unico 2087 does not offer complimentary bottles(you can pay extra) in rooms. If you want a glass of Prosecco (Champagne is extra) you can ask your local host to bring it, along with two shots of alcohol (for a mixed drink) per person. I’m wondering if getting a bottle at Duty-Free would be a way to remedy this annoyance.

Restaurants & Food

As a boutique resort, Unico 2087 has five restaurants, which is less than most major all-inclusives. We ate at four of the five and I did not get tired of them. The food and beverages are what differentiate from all other resorts! The restaurants feel like real restaurants as opposed to some that can feel like a banquet hall. There is no dinner buffet, which some might not like, but I don’t miss at all.

I suggest making reservations on the app prior to arriving. You can always cancel if plans change, but if you know you’ll be eating at the resort, why not plan ahead?

Here’s what we had, what I recommend, and what I wouldn’t order again.

• Cueva Siete – This is a Mexican restaurant and being in Mexico, I assumed it would be great. It is! We had dinner here our first night and our last night. The first night we ate inside and it was packed! The last night we opted for an outdoor table and the mosquitos were biting! As much as we want to enjoy the warm weather, inside is where it’s at. Here are all the things we had, both nights combined:
  • To Share: Chips, salsa, and bean dip come to the table and are so good! Sopecitos (sausage and potato sopes with pickled onion and jalapeno). Obsessed! We ordered them both nights! Blue Corn Quesadillas are pretty good. I would order them again. Spicy Chips are like lemony roasted potatoes and are so good! Another thing that was ordered both nights.
  • Meal: My husband had the Birria and loved it! We also had Mushroom Enchiladas, Fish Tacos, and Chicken with Green Pipian. Fish tacos were just ok and the enchiladas and chicken were a little bland.
  • Dessert: My husband loved the Horchata Tres Leches (another repeat order)! The Bananas and Cream were ok but the Strawberries and Meringue were very good. I’m going to include the Tableside Mayan Coffee as dessert because it is sweet but VERY strong!
• 2087 Grill – Breakfast buffet by morning, classic grill by night! Buffet is solid, pretty traditional with omlette station, fresh fruits, all the juice, etc. They offer indoor and outdoor seating in the morning, whereas the evening is indoor only. Sometimes they have live music too! In the evenings, the outdoor bar is open and its specialty is craft gin! We went to the outdoor bar a few times, and the only odd thing was that the bar is open, but no (and I mean zero) lighting by the seating. Fun anecdote, during the day we saw a wild monkey hop on the bar, knock over some glasses, and run off on a rooftop. It is the jungle!
  • To Share: Rolls – herby buttery pull-apart rolls came to the table and I don’t think I’ve ever had bread that good in Mexico! Empanada Duo – one of my favorite things I ate all trip! Not necessarily on brand with a grill, but delicious nonetheless.
  • Meal: I read Jess Keys review and I don’t think she had any salads she loved so I stayed away from those. My husband got the Onion Soup and I got the Poblano Cappucino Soup to start, both were just OK. As someone who loves risotto, but doesn’t like mushrooms, I was excited to try the Parmesan Risotto. It has a ton of flavor and I would order again! My husband wasn’t sure how the steak would be, but he got the New York Strip and said it was excellent and loved the Roquefort/Kalamata topping.
  • Dessert: Corn Cake was solid but even better were the Chocolate Whoopies which is essentially a flight of mini whoopie pies.
• Mi Carisa – Italian restaurant in the evening turns into a beautiful breakfast spot in the morning. We first went here for dinner and sat in the most random spot, next to the door to the patio, but also next to a wet floor side. Killed the vibe. The restaurant was so pretty though we decided to try it for breakfast even though we randomly heard someone say the food was the same as the buffet. Not so! I much prefer this over the buffet spot and, the crepes to share are amazing! We were also talked into getting the pastry basket, so I’ll pass that along…get it!
  • To Share: Bread Basket came out with a variety of breads and crackers and again, excellent bread!
  • Meal: Unico has updated their menu since we were there, so I don’t know the exact names of the dishes we got, but they were just OK. This was our least favorite restaurant, but if I’m comparing two resorts, this Italian restaurant was MUCH better than the Italian restaurant at Excellence. I just think I don’t go to Mexico to have Italian…I go to Italy for that.
• Everything Else – a couple of other notes about dining at Unico:
  • Pizza – there is a made-to-order coal-fired (I think) pizza spot. Pretty solid.
  • Inez Afe – Coffee house and grab-and-go spot. The coffee and pastries are great! I would usually grab something to go and sit by the pool before I was ready for cocktails.
  • Mura House – Japanese and if we knew enough people would have tried the Hibachi, but it seats 8 and I don’t like strangers.

Swimming Pools & Beach

Swimming Pools

There are three good sized swimming pools at Unico! Each pool has a hot tub, and there are lounge chairs with umbrellas as well as day beds. Food and beverage service starts around 10:00 am. The service isn’t the quickest, especially compared to Excellence, but can you really complain when you are drinking Pina Coladas while reading a book and soaking up vitamin D?

In the center of the resort is the activity pool, which includes things like volleyball and a swim-up bar. I would consider this the party pool of the resort. Directly behind it is the music pool, which has music piped throughout, but no activities in the actual pool. Both of these pools have separate sections designated for Legendary Members. I did not spend time at either of these because I’m a quiet pool kind of girl.

The third pool is off to the side and is a designated quiet pool. Great in theory, but lacks in execution. There is no music piped, which aligns with it being a quiet pool, but that leads to people bringing their own speakers, which is quite annoying. There is a sign that notes it is a quiet pool, with rules (like headphones required for music) listed, but no one enforcing them.

I don’t want anyone to not have fun on vacation, but it would be nice if the hotel staff would suggest them moving to the music pool if they want to hear music. As someone who wants to read at the pool, the music is kind of distracting. There is a swim-up bar at the quiet pool which is convenient while in the pool, but also leads to people congregating and getting a little loud…at the quiet pool. Swim-up bar is off brand for the quiet pool.

Beach

I haven’t found Riviera Maya/Cancun beaches to be great, and I dislike sand, so I rarely spend time at them. I did check them out for you, but can’t comment on service or anything. The beach is small, and it’s publicly owned so the seating is pretty minimal.

The Entertainment

Unico doesn’t have entertainment, but rather activities. At Excellence there is a pavilion with proper shows (quality is what you would expect) and an outdoor bar that has live bands every night. Unico doesn’t have a pavilion or a central outdoor bar area. There is the Palmera Lounge which stays open late, and turns into a nightclub. It hosts activities like Bingo and Karaoke in the evening. We walked in there once during Bingo and it was a weird vibe. There is also an outdoor section to the bar but wasn’t open when we were there.

The Spa

I didn’t get a chance to visit the spa since I only do that on rainy days during vacation. If you attend a Legendary presentation you receive free spa services. The prices are kind of expensive, but I’m wondering if that’s to help incentivize sitting through a presentation.

Overall Review (TLDR)

Unico 2087 Review: The resort is easy and convenient to get to from much of the U.S. As far as luxury, adults-only, all-inclusive resorts go, there is a lot of value for the price. The vibe is wonderful, the food is great, and the service is solid. If you are a beach lover there are better places for you. If you are a ‘cocktails by the pool’ type of person, then this might just be the place. With a few caveats (knowing about the timeshare element and the bottles) I would highly suggest, and I would definitely return myself!

Loved this Unico 2087 review? Then check out these other posts!

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About Sedona, Arizona

I have a lengthy post for a detailed 3-Day Itinerary in Sedona, so I won’t go into it all here. A couple of key points about Sedona that I do believe play into the review of the resort are below.

1. Sedona is home to a charming downtown, full of small boutiques and restaurants. As someone who likes to walk around and take the least amount of transportation I can on vacation, it’s essential for the resort to be within walking distance of other things. I don’t want to get in the car whenever I feel like leaving.
2. Maybe best known for Red Rocks, Sedona is ingrained in hiking culture, meaning you will drive to the best hikes. Easy access to the rental car is essential.
3. Sedona is a resort town and anyone who has visited a resort town knows that dining options aren’t always plentiful or have the most convenient hours. Having easy access to coffee and meals is a must!

The Hotel

Located down a semi-steep hill off of N State Rte 89A, Amara Resort and Spa is a 4-star hotel on the banks of Oak Creek. Since it’s one of the best hotels in Sedona, they book quickly so if you are thinking of staying but aren’t entirely sure, I suggest booking it knowing you can utilize the flexible cancellation policy if needed.

I highly, highly recommend working with the Concierge at the hotel. Not only did they give us a ton of recommendations, they booked our dinner reservations and our jeep tour which picked us up directly in front of the hotel.

Rooms

Amara offers both rooms and suites, as well as the option between King size beds or two queens. This is important if you want to share a room on a girl’s trip as not every hotel has a two-queen bed option.

I love that every single room has a patio or balcony. Depending on the room selection, the view might not be great, but at least having some outdoor space in a place as beautiful as Sedona is wonderful. If a view is important, you can choose Creekside or Red Rocks for a premium.

The two queen bed rooms have plenty of room and a large walk-in closet. There is a coffee maker for the morning and a mini-bar for late-night cravings.

Restaurant

SaltRock Southwest Kitchen is the restaurant located in the hotel and serves Southwestern cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s great that there is a restaurant on site and that it is open for any meal you could want, but it isn’t inexpensive, especially for the cuisine.

I went there for breakfast and dinner; my friend and I preferred the breakfast offering to dinner. It was delicious and offered plenty of protein-rich options which is important if you will be having a long day of activities. And you can get coffee to go!

SaltRock offers indoor and outdoor dining and has a full bar. Oh, and if you are at the pool you can go into the restaurant bar for a cocktail and they’re more than happy to put it in plastic for you.

Swimming Pool

Amara has a beautiful heated infinity pool in the back of the hotel that overlooks Oak Creek. As mentioned above, you can easily walk to the bar and grab a cocktail to bring to the pool, or the hot tub if that’s more your speed. There are plenty of lounge chairs, with umbrellas, and a couple of daybeds.

Hot tip – if you don’t want to pack a pool coverup and slides just for the pool, you can use the hotel-provided robes and slippers to go to and from your room.

Amara Spa

I didn’t get a chance to visit the Spa on this trip, but that was my plan if it ended up raining. It has great reviews though and I would definitely check it out if time permits on my next trip. The entrance to the spa is across the way from valet parking, a short walk from the entrance. It’s open to the public so it’s really nice that you don’t have to go through the hotel to get to the Spa.

Overall Review (TLDR)

Amara Resort and Spa Review: The resort is in the best location in Sedona to walk to shops and has great amenities. From welcoming you with a glass of champagne to arranging anything you could need before you even arrive, the service is wonderful. I would absolutely stay here again and recommend it to anyone looking for a luxury hotel without five-star prices.

DISCLOSURE: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. I am very obsessed with FTC compliance so check out my full disclosure for details.

If you love this review, check out these other posts!

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If you buy something through my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support! See disclosure for details.

Downtown

Avec

You can’t go wrong with Avec, and now they are open for brunch it’s a must-visit! Avec serves Mediterranean-inspired tapas and there is something (multiple things) for everyone. The food is fresh, flavorful, and delicious. It’s one of my favorite spots in the city.

Beatnik

I haven’t been yet, but this has the coolest bohemian vibe and is right on the river. There’s a terrace (enclosed in Winter), DJs, Mediterranean food, and fun brunch cocktails. It has a great reputation in the city.

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe

This is the only pick on the list that doesn’t offer alcohol, but you can’t think of pancakes in Chicago without thinking of Wildberry. They have a massive menu with all sorts of pancake options, but if that’s not up your alley they offer lots of egg dishes too. Or get the best of both worlds and order an egg dish with a pancake on the side. They don’t take reservations and are wildly popular, so prepare to wait or get there early.

Cindy’s Rooftop

The reason you go to Cindy’s is for the retractable roof (which means you can go in when it’s not warm) right on Michigan Avenue with unmatched views of the bean. I mean…don’t discount the food, but you won’t get that view anywhere else.

Maple & Ash

One of my absolute favorite dinner restaurants, but I have yet to make it for brunch. When you are here it’s for a celebration. It’s pricey, but if it’s anything like dinner you will not regret it. It’s a scene at dinner, but a little more laid back during brunch.

Lincoln Park/Lakeview

Summer House Santa Monica

Like The Hampton Social, Summer House has a coastal vibe, but this time it’s California cool. Less fish on the menu, this is really all about laid-back American food. Fun fact: one time I went here for brunch and was wearing the same exact white and blue gingham shirts as the employees. That was fun!

Café Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Café Ba-Ba-Reeba is one of my favorite tapas places in the city and brunch tapas do not disappoint!

Blue Door Farm Stand

Farm-to-table classic American food with a French countryside aesthetic. I like to think this is what it’s like dining with Ina Garten.

Farm Bar

Midwest through and through, Farm Bar has an elevated take on comfort foods. Think Nutella croissant, pork belly poutine, and apple brandy maple syrup.

Little Goat

Stephanie Izard is high on the list of Chicago culinary icons and Little Goat is her version of a diner. Open Tuesday-Sunday and only until 3:00 this is a great option if you are visiting Chicago during the week. It’s also a much more affordable way to try Stephanie’s (did I mention she is a James Beard recipient) food than her other restaurants Duck Duck Goat and Girl & The Goat.

Related: 3 Day Chicago Itinerary for Spring and Summer

West Loop

Beatrix

Beatrix has a few locations around the city but my favorite is the Fulton Market location in the West Loop. Of course, they have indoor seating but they also have a ton of outdoor and I may love eating al fresca as much as I love eating brunch. Whether you want to go healthy or not so much, Beatrix has plenty to choose from. Hot tip, I always request my coffee in a to go cup up front so I can walk out with it once finished with brunch. Never not with 3 beverages at all points in time.

Bandit

They like to say they are “farm-to-bar” and they have a bottomless brunch to back it up. I haven’t made it here (yet) but the menu looks like it would be great for after a night on the town.

West Town (Wicker Park, East Village)

Lonesome Rose

The best Tex-Mex place in the city (I think it might be considered Logan Square or Bucktown actually) their queso is amazing as is the breakfast burrito. If it’s nice when you visit make sure to get a rooftop spot!

Paradise Park

Paradise Park is a fun spot any time of day, but do yourself a favor and go to the roof and find yourself an old-school patio chair to sit in. They could do well based on the gimmicks alone, but the cocktails are great (my last was topped with a mini donut) as is the breakfast pizza.

Parson’s Chicken & Fish

From the same group behind Lonesome Rose, Parson’s Chicken & Fish is known for its fried chicken, frozen boozy drinks, and amazing outdoor patios. They have a few spots in the city, but my favorite is the West Town location (although Logan Square is the original and has more outdoor space).

The Perch

A classic American brunch spot with indoor, outdoor, and beer garden seating, The Perch also has a wood-fired grill for various dishes. The blueberry cornbread and hashbrowns are some of my must-try recommendations.

Etta

Like Maple & Ash, and from the same group as Maple & Ash, Etta is one of my favorite dinner picks but I haven’t made it to brunch yet. Trust me, it’s on the list. They have both a River North and a Bucktown location but I love the roof at the Bucktown spot (you know how I love a good rooftop!) The focaccia at dinner is amazing so I can only imagine what it is like at brunch with jam and I love the wood-fired pizza for the table.

Cracked on Milwaukee

Cracked is the place you want to be when you’ve had a little too much fun out on the town and are looking for a breakfast sandwich and some tots to accompany your mimosa flight.

DISCLOSURE: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. I am very obsessed with FTC compliance so check out my full disclosure for details.

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About Playa Mujeres

Playa Mujeres is a secluded vacation destination and beach area just north of Cancun Mexico. It’s my understanding that due to the way it’s geographically shielded by Isla Mujeres the beach gets a fair amount of seaweed, which I’ve seen first hand.

The average high temperature ranges from 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low range is 67-77, depending on the month that you go. It can get very, very humid so don’t be surprised if the temperature reads 85 but it feels like 95.

When visiting a tropical location, rain can often be a concern. February – May are the least rainy months with October being the rainiest.

I’ve been to Excellence Playa Mujeres three times, all in October, and have had different experiences with precipitation. It’s poured rain for one full day, it’s drizzled rain sporadically on most days, but on my most recent trip, it didn’t rain one drop.

Getting to Excellence Playa Mujeres

Unless you live in Mexico, you’ll fly into the Cancun International Airport (CUN) and drive 18 miles to the resort. Depending on the time of day, this will take 35-45 minutes.

Going through customs is a relatively quick process. Do that, grab your luggage and you’ll see the plethora of transportation options. I highly, and I cannot stress this enough, recommend that you pre-arrange your transportation to the hotel. All the options can be overwhelming and it can be tricky to know what car or taxi company is legitimate.

Seasons Tours is the exclusive transfer company that Excellence Playa Mujeres uses. In one of the emails the resort sends they will remind you to schedule your transportation. Make sure to do that once you have your flight information because they’ll need to know arrival and departure times. Then it’s so convenient! Walk outside and you’ll see the different companies holding up signs. Look for Seasons Tours and they’ll have a clipboard with your name on it. In 10 minutes, we were in a private nice, cool, clean Mercedes on the way to the resort.

The Resort

There is a lot of security to even enter the resort so it feels very safe. A couple of overall things before we get into the details:

• Excellence Playa Mujeres is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort. If you are looking for a family-friendly resort you’ll want to visit Finest Playa Mujeres which is their sister property right door
• About 99% of the guests are couples, many celebrating honeymoons or anniversaries.
• There is free wifi and the signal is pretty strong throughout the resort so having access to the internet is no problem.
• You’ll want to download The Excellence Collection App from the App store. This is where you’ll see all of the restaurant menus (they don’t have paper menus), daily entertainment, and more.
• Some mornings there is a pretty potent sulfur smell, which can be a little off-putting but it goes away quickly. My understanding is that this is from the algae in the region.
• Tipping is of course optional but always appreciated. They happily accept U.S. dollars and I recommend bringing a variety of $5’s, $10’s, and $20’s depending on what situation you are in. For instance, in the morning at the swimming pool, we would tip the waiter $20 and be good for the day. If you are going to get one or two drinks at the martini bar, you will probably want to tip less than $20. You’ll also want cash to tip the drivers. I made the mistake last time and only had a few $5’s and $10’s so shelled out more $20’s then I necessarily would have if I planned a little better.
• When we went they provide free Covid tests for guests who are flying to counties that require proof of a negative test (the U.S.). They will give you a time to go to a room, they administer the test and then email you the same day. It’s very easy and convenient.

Excellence Club

The Excellence Club at Excellence Playa Mujeres is an upgraded tier when booking the room. The actual rooms are the same within the same category, but there are other perks. You’ll have to decide if the perks are worth it.

Some of the benefits are private check-in/check-out, two separate swimming pools, a separate beach area, access to an exclusive restaurant, upgraded alcohol in the room, evening treats sent to your room. There are more benefits, but I recommend going to the website for the full, updated list.

I’ll get into some of the details below, but I think the upgrade is absolutely worth it. My favorite things about the upgrade are the private check-in and check-out and the two private pools.

Rooms

As I mentioned above, the rooms are the same within the same category regardless if you have an Excellence Club room or not. What I mean by that is, the Junior Suite Pool View is the same room layout and finishes as the Excellence Club Junior Suite Pool View.

For my most recent stay, I booked the Excellence Club Junior Suite Ocean View. This definitely isn’t oceanfront, but if you look over the resort you can see the ocean in the background.

The room features a walk-in closet with a safe, double sinks, a water closet for the toilet, a dual-head walk-in shower, king-size bed, sofa, TV, indoor/outdoor jacuzzi, and balcony. It’s slightly over 800 sq feet, which is a lot of space seeing as though the Junior Suite is the smallest room.

There is a mini-fridge with water, soda, beer, and wine as well as some candy bars. The bar has a variety of alcohol and there is a Nespresso machine ( I believe the Nespresso is for Excellence Club). Room service is available 24/7, but unfortunately, you have to call in your order as it’s not available on the App yet.

Great Things About the Room

Every room has a good size balcony that includes a table and chairs and a daybed. I love this aspect as we wound up ordering room service every morning for breakfast and eating on the balcony. We used the daybed in the evening if we wanted to play card games or if I just wanted to read before getting ready for dinner. It’s very nice to have private outdoor space. Tip: the silver tray that the ice bucket is on is a perfect tray to use on the daybed to be able to set your drink on.

It’s spacious so there’s plenty of room. Plenty of space in the closet so you don’t feel like you are living in clutter, and plenty of room with the dual sinks to get ready.

The TV is nice and new which means it has a port for a streaming stick. If you’ve been around the blog then you know I am obsessed with entertainment. When I go on vacation, I always travel with a Fire Stick to pop in the TV and I can watch most of my regular shows. Just know that certain Apps only have rights to certain shows in certain countries, so if something is missing, that’s probably why.

Not So Great Things About the Room

The room is an open concept so there are no walls to the bathroom. You read that correctly. The toilet is in a water closet, but the door is glass and it does not go from floor to ceiling. Here is where I get very real with you, but that’s what an honest review is all about. You will be very happy you have a private outdoor space to get some sort of privacy.

The sofa is slippery and uncomfortable. Not a good lounging sofa.

It can get quite damp being so close to the ocean. I bring one of these to hang in the bathroom and it does help reduce the moisture in the air.

The first morning we woke up there was a ‘smell’ in the room. I called the concierge and they sent someone right away to fix it. It didn’t smell after that but I got the feeling I wasn’t the first person who had ever called with that issue.

We tried out the jacuzzi but the liquid they give you for it is actually shower gel, so if you want bubbles then you’ll need to bring some from home. TBH, my at-home jacuzzi has better power so I pretty much immediately got out of the tub.

Restaurants & Food

Excellence Playa Mujeres has 12 restaurants, all with different themes and cuisines. I love this because when you don’t leave the resort you still want variety. During previous stays I’ve eaten at most of the restaurants and, overall, I would say the food is above average, but not great. It’s hard to find great food at an all-inclusive so above average is pretty good in my book.

On the most recent trip, since the pandemic was still very relevant and Mexico doesn’t require a negative test or proof of vaccination, we weren’t eating inside. This severely limited our restaurant options since many of the restaurants that have outdoor dining weren’t seating.

Here are some quick thoughts on the restaurants I dined at on the most recent trip:

• Toscana | Breakfast and Lunch buffet by day, Italian restaurant by night. This used to be where we got breakfast but they’ve updated it to be more safe during the pandemic, and I found the other guests to be kind of aggressive. Decided to get room service after that.
• The Grill | Located over the main swimming pool, it’s entirely outdoor seating. I found it fine during the day but did not enjoy the food at all for dinner. The steak had a weird flavor and texture.
• The Lobster House | This is the other completely outdoor restaurant over the main pool. It’s the same building as The Grill but they have different entrances and share a bar. Since it was one of a handful of restarurants we felt comfortable in outdoors, we ate here quite a few times. Here’s a rundown on some of the food (note the lunch and dinner menu are different, lunch notes are at the top of the list and dinner starts at Lobster Ceviche)
  • Chips & Salsa – fresh chips and it comes with a tangy green tomatillo and a smoky red chipotle
  • Crab Rolls – not a ton of crab flavor, more like a veggie egg roll
  • Nachos – solid go-to and the same you can order at the pool or beach
  • Fish Tacos – lacking flavor and the tempura got soggy quickly
  • Chicken Quesadilla – fine but nothing special
  • Ice Cream Sampler – trio of fresh ice cream, delicious!
  • Lobster Ceviche – very good with lots of flavor (ordered multiple times)
  • Coconut Shrimp – solid for what it is
  • Crab Cake – didn’t taste much like crab, mostly just tastes fried
  • Lobster Risotto – good texture with lobster and cheese and no mushrooms
  • Surf & Turf – the steak is comically small; you are better off ordering a lobster tail and a side of your choosing
  • Lobster Tail – great, you can get it grilled or steamed (ordered multiple times)
  • Mashed Potatoes – nothing to write home about
  • Berry Blintz – not much cheese but the crepe and berries were good
  • Chocolate Mousse – just ok
• Sol | Technically a bar behind the main pool but this is where they have. awood-fired pizza oven with a variety of toppings. They make it to order while you wait. After living in both New York and Chicago, I’m a harsh pizza critic so I got it once. But it’s worth trying.

Cocktails & Drinks

The resort has many bars to get cocktails at as well as the daily pool and beach service. There is no lack of alcohol flowing at Excellence Playa Mujeres. In the name of research, of course, I tried out quite a few cocktails offered on the menu, here are my thoughts:

• Tamarind Margarita – Made from a tropical fruit, it’s not super sweet and I love the Tajin rim.
• Mango Jalapeno Margarita – Amazing and I frequently ordered this cocktail. Made with fresh jalapeno the spiciness offsets the sweet and finishes with a Tajin rim. Check out my Spicy Mango Margarita recipe inspired by this drink.
• Pina Colada – A quintessential frozen tropical cocktail, they know what they are doing.
• Caipirosca – A vodka-based cocktail on the rocks, that tastes like a sweet version of a gimlet.
• White Wine Sangria – Hard pass
• Chai Silk Stocking – Didn’t really taste like Chai but had an interesting flavor. This is available at the Martini bar inside the main building.
• Mudslide – Like the PIna Colada, they know what they are doing when it comes to these drinks. And they don’t skimp on the booze either.
• Banana Mama – Good if you like banana-flavored drinks

Revive is a juice bar which is great when you want something refreshing that doesn’t necessarily contain alcohol. At Noon daily they serve fresh coconuts until they run out, which is around 12:30. This is the best fresh coconut water I’ve ever had! Note they do not serve straws at all at Excellence Playa Mujeres so if you think you may want instead of putting your mouth on the coconut, then make sure to bring some from home. Also, you can take the coconut to the nearest bar (Prelude) and they’ll put a shot of rum in it if you’d like.

Aroma is technically a coffee bar but it is so much more. Located by the entertainment pavilion, it is very popular and there is usually a line out of the door in the morning. They have baristas on staff that will craft hot or iced coffee drinks and there are also grab & go items available. Note that any hot drink can be made iced and vice versa. Just like the coconut call out at Revive, you won’t be getting a straw for your blended iced coffee drink so if you want one, bring it from home. Aroma may be most known for its coffee but it is also an ice cream shop that serves homemade ice cream. It is excellent!

Swimming Pools & Beach

Beach

The beach at Excellence Playa Mujeres isn’t the best. As I mentioned above, due to the way it’s protected by Isla Mujeres there is a fair amount of seaweed and algae. They do their best to keep it clean and you’ll see someone on a tractor-looking type of thing come through multiple times a day to clean the beach.

The beach for the Excellence Club guests is roped off and they are pretty strict about only letting those guests into that area. So let’s say you are staying in the Excellence Club but your friends aren’t, don’t assume they can come over to the Excellence Club side of the beach.

Since I stayed in the Excellence Club during my last stay, that is the beach I’ll be reviewing.

There are cabanas, lounge chairs under palapas, and sunbeds all available for use in the Excellence Club. I don’t think that the other side has private cabanas. We lucked out and got a cabana on our first day by showing up at 7:45am but they are a hot commodity. Other days we would get up as early as 6:30am and the cabanas were all taken, a lot of people go to the beach to watch the sunrise. Most people will claim their spot and then go back to bed or breakfast or whatever. It’s annoying, but it’s a ‘hate the game, not the player’ kind of situation.

When you enter the beach area the concierge will give you towels and water if you’d like. Beverage service starts at 10:00 am and you can order drinks and food from the waitstaff until 5:00.

If you are anything like me, you like to look at the ocean but hate sand. Here’s a tip when you want to cool off but are laying at the beach: the main pool of the hotel is right behind the beach area so grab a towel from the concierge, take a dip in the pool, and go back to the beach to enjoy the ocean.

Swimming Pool

Excellence Playa Mujeres has a few swimming pools but some of them also run into each other so it’s kind of hard to say exactly how many there are. What is great is that whatever type of pool environment you are looking for, they will have.

Similar to the beach, cocktail service goes from 10:00-5:00. Note the towels are in raised boxes throughout the resort, you just pull one out when you need it if you aren’t in the Excellence Club (if you are then you’ll get them from the concierge).

The main pool sits under/adjacent to The Grill and The Lobster House restaurants. It has your typical pool music piped through and the swim-up bar so it’s a little more lively.

Next is the lazy river but it doesn’t move so it’s more a pool in the shape of a river. This is the pool that goes right in front of the Swim-up Suites. It kind of depends on the guests as to this type of vibe. I’ve experienced it where couple friends are staying together and then it’s more energetic with 8 people having fun. But I’ve also seen it be very quiet.

There are two private pools for Excellence Club guests only, one near building 7 and one near building 8. The one near building 8 is larger and has a bar and therefore is more lively. Sometimes all the lounge chairs are taken so if that’s where you want to be, you may want to go early. The pool near building 7 is smaller and much more quite. If you plan on reading a book all day, this is where I highly recommend going. Regardless of which private swimming pool you go to you’ll be able to order drinks and food from the waitstaff.

The Entertainment

The resort has entertainment every night in an outdoor covered venue, the calendar of events is available on the app. There is the main show, and musical entertainment before and after held in the outdoor section, right in front of the venue.

It’s pretty typical resort entertainment…there’s a fire dancer show, a Michael Jackson show, you get the gist. The musical entertainment ends at 10:30 so depending on where your room is you may hear it until then. Most nights we would watch the musical pre or post-show but skip the main event. Instead, we would go to the room and play the games we brought with us (I highly recommend Monopoly Deal).

The Spa

I didn’t get a chance to hit up the Miilé Spa on my most recent trip, but I have booked a massage previously when it has been raining. The facilities are what you expect from a nice spa and they offer a variety of treatments. It gets fully booked though, so if you are interested you might want to book it sooner rather than later. If you wait on the weather forecast, you might be cutting it close.

Overall Review (TLDR)

Excellence Playa Mujeres Review: The resort is easy and convenient to get to from a lot of the U.S. As a luxury, adults-only, all-inclusive resort there is a lot of value for the price. The service is excellent (pun intended but also it’s true) and the food’s not bad either. If you are a beach lover there are better places for you. If you are a ‘cocktails by the pool’ type of person, then this might just be the place.

Loved this review? Then check out these other posts!

DISCLOSURE: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. I am very obsessed with FTC compliance so check out my full disclosure for details.

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You can visit Milwaukee in any season but I would advise against the winters.  You just never know what you are going to get in a midwest winter.  Since the city is such a manageable size, it’s only a 20-minute ride from the airport to downtown.

If you buy something through my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support! See disclosure for details.

Where to Stay

There are different reasons to choose where to stay.  Usually, it depends on what type of trip I’m planning and looking to spend.  In Milwaukee, I recommend a cool hotel with a great location.

• The Pfister Hotel | The Pfister is a beautifully opulent hotel.  At over 100 years old, they’ve kept the charm but it has all the modern amenities.  It’s in a great downtown location – close to restaurants, theaters and the lake. Bonus, it also has a solid restaurant, Mason Street Grill, in the building.

• The Iron Horse Hotel | The Iron Horse is near the Harley-Davidson Museum (natch) and while its name speaks to the motorcycle enthusiast, there’s no denying it’s just the coolest hotel in the city.  The hotel was created out of a completely renovated mattress factory and it still has a loft vibe.

• Hotel Metro | If you are looking to earn or redeem points (ain’t no shame in that game) then Hotel Metro is where it’s at for your Marriott Bonvoy points.  As part of the Autograph Collection, you’ll have an upscale boutique feel but with corporate amenities.  It’s located directly downtown so you’ll be close to everything!

Where to Caffeinate

What makes a good coffeehouse to me is a place that has a good vibe, good coffee, and good food; the trifecta for me to go back. If not all 3 are in place, it’s not on my list.

• Colectivo | With a few locations in the city, you’re never far from a Colectivo.  Their coffee is great, they have fun seasonal offerings and I’ve never had a bad pastry there.  The Prospect Ave location also has an entertainment venue attached run by The Pabst Theater Group.  

• Stone Creek Coffee | Still very local to Milwaukee, Stone Creek offers fun coffee drinks and a solid offering of baked goods.

• Anodyne Coffee Roasting Co. | Yes they have coffee (it’s good), yes they have pastries but they now (at least in their Bayview location) also serve beer, wine, and pizza. 

Where to Brunch

I prefer this over lunch, you can get something savory or sweet and day drinking is encouraged.

• The Knick | Located inside The Knickerbocker Hotel, The Knick offers up one of the best bloody marys in the city (and the best bloody marys are in the midwest).  Although only offered on Sunday’s the menu is made up of classic American fare.

• Toast | The brunch spot is as cool as the neighborhood it’s located in.  It has a wide variety of fun brunch cocktails, and as someone who loves pancakes, happy to see a few of those options as well.

• Cafe Centraal | One of my go-to brunch spots, Cafe Centraal has a European vibe with a lot of craft beers on tap.  Even their courtyard for outdoor seating is reminiscent of Europe, but the food strikes the perfect balance with American comfort. 

The Dinner Scene

One of life’s simple pleasures is a long leisurely meal with wonderful company and great conversation. 

• 5 O’Clock Steakhouse | This restaurant is a hidden gem in Milwaukee and one of my favorites in the midwest.  It’s a classic supper club, which you can’t find just anywhere, and has amazing food.  My brandy old fashioned sweet recipe is inspired by their version as I think it’s the best I’ve ever had.  

A little to know before you go.  You’ll walk in, sit at the bar, and place your food order as you sip on the cocktail of your choice, I highly recommend the old-fashioned.  When they seat you at your table they will have the quintessential relish tray ready for you to enjoy before your meal comes.  All of those things don’t take away from just how amazing the steak is.  Be warned you probably won’t be able to finish.  Side note, t’s not in the best neighborhood.  Most people park in the lot next to the restaurant but if you choose to take a Lyft maybe stay inside until the car arrives.

• Maxie’s | Located on the outskirts of town, near American Family Field, Maxie’s is worth the trip.  It’s an upscale southern restaurant and I’ve never had a bad meal.  The cocktails are delightful, one of the few places I can get a Pimm’s Cup.  Some of my particular favorite foods there are the fried green tomatoes, ribs, and mac & cheese.  Just know, you probably won’t feel like doing much after dinner.. 

• Botanas Restaurant | You may not know that Milwaukee has a thriving Mexican restaurant scene so I had to include one on the list.  Botanas is what you think of when you want just really good, casual Mexican food.  Sit on the patio, eat the chips and salsa, and drink from the many margarita options to your heart’s content. 

What to do in Milwaukee

Here’s how to fill the time in between eating.

• Milwaukee Public Market | I love a public market and Milwaukee has one of the best!  Filled with local vendors, you can buy cheese, or olive oil, or t-shirts, or spices.  And if you do want to eat or drink, some personal favorites are Thief Wine Bar (get a glass of wine and the Marcona almonds) and St. Paul Fish Company. 

• Lakefront Brewery | Milwaukee is a city known for beer so I have to include at least one brewery on the list. Lakefront is the best when it comes to tours (although you could make a day of it and go to Miller and Sprecher too).  Not only is the technical tour great and you get samples of beer, but they also have a full restaurant where you can stay and dine and continue to enjoy the beer.  A fish fry is something that is a staple in Milwaukee, so if you find yourself there on a Friday, you know what to order. 

• Milwaukee Art Museum | Not only does the Milwaukee Art Museum house one of the largest collections of art in the world, but the building itself is also a piece of art.  It’s right on Lake Michigan and designed by the world-renowned artist Santiago Calatrava.  It’s a key component in the Milwaukee skyline.

• Milwaukee County Zoo | Milwaukee has a great zoo, but it won’t be cheap!  They charge for admission and parking.  If you want to cut down on the budget a bit (or just elevate your food options) you can pack a picnic lunch, but if you choose to dine there they do offer alcohol (it is Milwaukee after all).  There are a ton of animal exhibits and a little train that will take you around the zoo too.

• The Pabst Theater Group | There are three main theaters downtown all owned by The Pabst Theater Group, and they all have a different vibe.  The Riverside is your traditional live theater while the Pabst theater has the grandeur and opulence of days gone by.  Turner Hall is on the opposite side of the spectrum with a little grit.  Depending on what you are looking for, chances are one of the theaters will be able to deliver.

Treat Yo Self

Cocktails or cake (or why not both?), treats are for celebrating every day.

• Leon’s Frozen Custard | In a suburban part of the city, right in front of a Wal-Mart, sits the home to the best frozen custard you will have in your life.  Milwaukee has a few frozen custard spots (love me some Kopp’s too) but Leon’s is the absolute best.  If you’ve had Culvers and you think that is custard, think again.  Real fresh frozen custard is thick and creamy and delicious.  They make it fresh on-site, and although only a few flavors to choose from I’m partial to a sundae.  It doesn’t matter if it’s winter, you will find people lined up outside their walk-up window.  And it’s worth it.

• Von Trier | On the trendy East Side, there is a German bar and cocktail lounge.  They have excellent cocktails but I love to go there for a warm spiked beverage.  IMO, there aren’t enough places that offer a wide variety of warm cocktails.  Von Trier is actually what inspired my spiked apple cider recipe.  While I recommend visiting Milwaukee in the summer if you do go when it’s cold make sure you hit up Von Trier.  Nothing better than coming in from a cold snowy night and warming up with a hot toddy.

• At Random | One of my favorite bars in Milwaukee, and one that holds a lot of memories, is held in an unassuming white building and is called At Random.  Inside you will find a dimly lit bar with a long list of exotic and retro-inspired drinks, cozy tables for two, and u-shaped booths.  I was heartbroken when they closed a few years ago but luckily they were bought. Word has it the new owners are keeping what we all love about the place, check it out and let me know if you love it as much as I do! 

If you will be visiting Milwaukee, Chicago is a short drive away! Check out the what to do in Chicago and a Chicago 3-Day Itinerary.

DISCLOSURE: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. I am very obsessed with FTC compliance so check out my full disclosure for details.

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All the homes I’ve chosen have a premier host, a private pool, and excellent reviews. A VRBO in Sonoma County is the perfect choice for a long weekend trip for your family, a couple of couples, or my personal favorite…Girls Trip!!!

If you buy something through my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support! See disclosure for details.

The Ranch House

Situated on two acres, but only two miles away from Sonoma’s historic square this VRBO offers the best of both worlds! Privacy and view of vineyards and mountains, but close to coffee shops and restaurants.

Bedrooms: 4

Sleeps: 8

Great Oak Main

Somehow modern and rustic at the same time, this cozy home strikes the perfect balance with indoor/outdoor living. The owners are doing some updates to the property so you may want to reach out before booking, but just look at those views!

Bedrooms: 2

Sleeps: 4

Gorgeous Wine Country Estate

Beautifully furnished, this VRBO in Sonoma County is an outdoor dream. Not only does it have a pool, but it also has a fire pit and hot tub.

Bedrooms: 3

Sleeps: 8

Stunning Retreat Overlooking Vineyards

Close to bustling Healdsburg, but yet serene overlooking vineyards, this property has it all. With indoor/outdoor living and high-end appliances, this really lends itself to a group getaway.

Bedrooms: 3

Sleeps: 8

Lavish New Wine Country Estate

This stunning new home has outdoor dining, a pool, a hot tub, and baby grand piano. And with equal bathrooms to bedrooms, you’ll never have to share!

Bedrooms: 4

Sleeps: 8

Your Wine Country Mountainside Home

Nestled in the mountains on 10 acres equally between Sonoma and Yountville, this property is a private retreat. There is no shortage of things to do around the house either with a bocce ball court, fire pit, pool, hot tub, and foosball.

Bedrooms: 4

Sleeps: 8

Private Glen Ellen Retreat

Such charming cottage vibes on the inside of this home, but outside has all the perks including an outdoor kitchen! Also, one of the few properties that offer a heated pool (with a charge of course) if you are visiting when it’s on the chilly side.

Bedrooms: 3

Sleeps: 6

Sonoma Hideaway

This home gives off Tuscan Villa vibes…a little old-world right outside the vineyards. With a unique layout, there are two bedrooms in two separate wings, strategic vacation placement!

Bedrooms: 4

Sleeps: 8

Relax in a Secluded Setting

This gorgeous cabin home blends seamlessly into the environment as if it was always supposed to be there. The inside is beautiful but the outdoors is truly impressive. Not only does it have a pool, bocce ball court, etc, but it also has its own outdoor pizza oven and smoker!!!

Bedrooms: 3

Sleeps: 8

Sonoma Valley Vinyard View

Ideal for a small group, this cozy cottage overlooks beautiful vines. With a private hot tub, but a shared pool, this property is a little more affordable while oozing with California wine country charm.

Bedrooms: 2

Sleeps: 4

Check out these posts for more Sonoma County trip planning!

• Detailed 3 Day Sonoma Itinerary
• The Best of Sonoma (restaurants, hotels, wineries)

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Before you travel, make sure your toiletry bag is stacked!

DISCLOSURE: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. I am very obsessed with FTC compliance so check out my full disclosure for details.

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If you buy something through my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support! See disclosure for details.

Lakefront Trail

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Distance from Chicago: 0 miles
• Driving Travel Time: 0 minutes
• Trail Distance: 18 miles
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy
• Entry Fee: Free

You literally do not need to leave Chicago to go on a long, beautiful walk. Luckily for us, those in charge of running Chicago years ago decided that the lake should be enjoyed by everyone, which is why 18 miles of Lake Michigan lakefront is a park, complete with walking and biking paths.

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

• Location: Dupage County, IL
• Distance from Chicago: 25 miles
• Driving Travel Time: 25 minutes
• Trail Distance: 11 miles
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy
• Entry Fee: Free

One step into Waterfall Glen and you won’t believe you are less than 30 minutes outside of the city. Completely immersed in the wilderness there’s not one skyscraper insight or city sound to be heard. The name might be a little misleading because the waterfall is a small manmade one so don’t set your expectations too high, but the miles upon miles of trails for walking, biking, and horseback riding make the short trip well worth it.

Indiana Dunes National Park

• Location: Porter County, IN
• Distance from Chicago: 50 miles
• Driving Travel Time: 50 minutes
• Trail Distance: 50 miles
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy to difficult
• Entry Fee: Free for the National Park (except $6 per vehicle fee at West Beach) but note the State Park does have a $7 per car fee with Indiana plates, $12 per car fee with out of state plates
• Pictured above

While northwest Indiana is home to both a National Park and a State Park (and both are worth going to) I’m partial to the National Park which is home to Mount Baldy, the largest ‘living’ sand dune in either park system. 15 miles of southern Lake Michigan is the backdrop to the park and if you don’t want to go for a hike then relax at one of eight beaches.

Starved Rock State Park

• Location: LaSalle County, IL
• Distance from Chicago: 90 miles
• Driving Travel Time: 90 minutes
• Trail Distance: 13 miles
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Entry Fee: Free

Starved Rock is a beautiful state park not too far from the city. Here you’ll see impressive waterfalls and hike canyons. The time of year to go for the best chance of viewing the waterfall in action is Spring (April showers and such) but since it’s open year-round if you can catch a frozen waterfall that is a sight not many see.

Kettle Moraine State Forest: Southern Unit

• Location: Waukesha County, WI
• Distance from Chicago: 100 miles
• Driving Travel Time: 2 hours
• Trail Distance: Over 100 miles
• Hiking Difficulty: Easy to difficult
• Entry Fee: $8 per car with Wisconsin plates, $11 per car with out of state plates

Sure this is a little further away, but Kettle Moraine is perfect for the novice as well as the experienced hiker. It’s home to one of only 11 National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail follows the edge of the last glacier in Wisconsin. With hiking, camping, and fishing available, there is plenty to keep you entertained in Kettle Moraine. Note there is also a Northern Unit which is larger than the Southern Unit, but it’s farther from Chicago and a little more rural with fewer activities.

Visiting Chicago? Check out these related posts:

• 3-Day Chicago Itinerary for Spring and Summer
• Fall and Winter 3 Day Itinerary
• How to Get Around Downtown Chicago
• The Best Hotels in Chicago
• The Coolest Chicago VRBOs

DISCLOSURE: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. I am very obsessed with FTC compliance so check out my full disclosure for details.

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The post Hikes Near Chicago appeared first on Very Obsessed.

If short term-rentals are more your thing, check out the coolest VRBO’s in Chicago.

Note: Please confirm with the hotel prior to booking as certain features and amenities may be closed due to global health & safety issues.

If you buy something through my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support! See disclosure for details.

Hotels in the West Loop

The West Loop (the neighborhood just west of The Loop) has become the spot for the best restaurants, bars, and nightlife in Chicago. There won’t be a ton of shopping here (go to The Mag Mile for that), and it’s not close to the lake, but if you are looking for the sceniest scene, this is it. It only recently became IT, so there’s still a little grunge (in a good way) on the edges. There are quite a few cool hotels in Chicago located in the West Loop, below are my top three.

Ace Hotel Chicago

I’m a sucker for a good rooftop, and Ace Hotel has a great rooftop restaurant. As a boutique hotel chain, Ace Hotel has an industrial/cool/trendy vibe. Across from Google headquarters, it won’t have the best view from every room, but usually, it’s a great price for a neighborhood that a lot of people want to stay in.

The Hoxton Chicago

Another boutique hotel, The Hoxton Chicago is only one block away from Fulton St. and near a ton of great restaurants. One of the coolest things it has going for it is its outdoor rooftop pool, and if you visit Chicago in the city know there is nothing more luxurious than a pool as an oasis in the city. When you stay at The Hoxton you really feel like you are staying in a hotel in the coolest part of the city.

Nobu Hotel Chicago

It’s no surprise that Nobu Hotel Chicago is right on Randolph Street, aka Restaurant Row. As the West Loop’s 5-star hotel, Nobu has a killer rooftop bar, the highly acclaimed Nobu restaurant, and you’ll feel right at home with the finest in-room amenities from the Dyson hairdryer to the Nespresso machine.

Hotels on the Chicago River

The Chicago River is a unique waterway that connects the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River Basin. Although most of it runs north/south, the main stem runs east/west through the city center. Not only is it cool to see, but Chicago has semi-recently built up the Riverwalk, which is a 1.25-mile pathway right on the river that is sprinkled with restaurants and bars. It’s also a central location, with the Mag Mile to the North and the Loop/Theater District to the south. If you don’t end up staying on the Chicago River, you’ll still definitely want to check it out via an Architectural Boat Tour, trust me.

LondonHouse Chicago

On the south side of the river, LondonHouse is the spot to get amazing river and iconic bridge views. You may or may not get the views from your room, but you most definitely will get the views from their rooftop restaurant and bar.

The Westin Chicago River North

One of the best things about staying in a chain you’re familiar with is you know what you are going to get and this hotel fits the bill. You walk in and it smells just like a Westin, which as a frequent traveler can be comforting! And like most other Westin’s this one is a massive hotel with good service and well-appointed rooms. And since it’s on the river, the possibility of an amazing view too.

The Langham Chicago

The Chicago River’s 5-star hotel is The Langham Chicago. No gimmicks here, just pure luxury with outstanding service, floor-to-ceiling windows in each room, and a 5-star spa.

Related: How to Plan a Vacation (including free timeline planner)

Hotels on the Magnificent Mile & Michigan Ave.

Michigan Avenue is a 12-mile street running north and south through Chicago, and the Magnificent Mile is the northernmost section connecting the Michigan Ave bridge to Oak Street. When you stay on the Magnificent Mile you will be in the heart of shopping, dining, and yes, tourism. If you are a first-time visitor, this will be the most central location to stay. Think, New York Times Square, but add in some charm and remove the stuffed fake Elmo’s.

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

Located at the northern part of The Mag Mile, the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is in the 900 North Michigan Ave. building and a stone’s throw to the shops on Oak St. and Oak St. beach, which means one thing, bougie. As a 5-star hotel, the Four Seasons is also one of the top luxury hotels in Chicago with the unrivaled city and lake views and a world-class spa.

Intercontinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

Across the street from The Shops at North Bridge and two blocks to the Chicago River, the Intercontinental is near the end of The Mag Mile (but nowhere near the end of Michigan Ave.) What’s nice is that since it’s just north of the Chicago River it’s only a 15-minute walk to Cloudgate (otherwise known as The Bean). The rooms are fine (aka clean) but finding a hotel in this location, with great city views and is pet-friendly…well that is hard to come by.

Omni Chicago Hotel

Fun fact: when I was younger and Oprah filmed her show in Chicago, during every show they announced that guests of the Oprah Winfrey show stay at the Omni hotel. And that’s what I think of when I think of the Omni. If it’s good enough for Oprah, it’s good enough for me! Located in the middle of The Mag Mile, you will be close to shopping, Oak Street Beach, and the Chicago River.

Historic Chicago Hotels

Chicago is a city full of history (relatively speaking, since the U.S. is a newer country). As one of the largest cities in the U.S., Chicago is by far the largest city in the Midwest and has been an integral part of the nation since 1850. Although much of it was burned to the ground during the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, Chicago rebuilt and has worked to retain much of its rich history. Staying in a place that was built in the 19th or early 20th century has the charm that just can’t be replicated.

Palmer House

Located in the Loop, staying at Palmer House you’ll be right across from the Art Institue and the el will be nearby (note you may hear the train). Palmer House was actually being built during the Great Chicago Fire and had to be rebuilt after it was burned. And rebuild they did. Walking in you can feel the history of hundreds of years gone by.

StayPineapple The Loop

A boutique hotel in The Loop? Who would’ve thought? StayPineapple is a fun hotel in Chicago, but that doesn’t take away that it is in a National Historic Landmark Building. It’s 4 blocks away from Cloudgate and Millenium Park, so it will be easy to have fun inside and outside of the hotel. Oh, and it’s pet friendly, because can a hotel really be fun if your best friend isn’t allowed. Side note: am I the only one who thinks of RHONJ anytime I hear of pineapple lately?

The Drake Hotel

While The Drake may not officially be a 5-star hotel, it feels ever so elegant. Located on the north end of The Mag Mile, The Drake is the quintessential Chicago Hotel. Opening its doors in 1920, 100 years later it still serves high tea in the Palm Court by day and cocktails and dancing at night. If you want to feel the grandeur of Chicago, what it once was and still is, this is it.

Luxury Hotels in Chicago

If you can afford it, why not? Getting pampered in a 5-star hotel makes your vacation complete. Whether you are hitting the town running or taking it a little more low-key, when you get back to your room don’t you just want to feel at home? Or, actually, better than home? It’s a vacation after all.

The Peninsula Chicago

There’s a reason Travel & Leisure ranked The Peninsula as the #1 hotel in Chicago in 2020. With world-class dining and spa options, this is the place to stay. It’s pet-friendly (because even pets deserve to be pampered). Not only is it in a great location along the Mag Mile, but they even offer exclusive outings via The Peninsula Academy.

Waldorf Astoria Chicago

The Waldorf Astoria is located in the Gold Coast, near Rush & Division, by all of the designer shops. It’s only a few blocks from Oak St., Oak St. beach. and Lake Michigan. Built in the style of a French chateau, the Waldorf Astoria is also home to Margeaux Brasserie, where you can get one of the best steak frites in the city.

Park Hyatt Chicago

Situated on Michigan Ave. (technically there is a small park between Michigan Ave. and the hotel), the Park Hyatt is on the Magnificent Mile in front of the historic Chicago Water Tower (one of the few buildings that survived the Great Fire). As you would expect with all 5-star hotels, the service, food, and accommodations are top-notch. An anecdote: as a little girl, I would walk under the Park Hyatt’s heated overhang where guests waited in their fur coats for a taxi, and to me, it just screamed luxury to heat the outdoors. As an adult, I still die for an outdoor heater.

Where the Cool Kids Stay

OK, so this whole post is dedicated to cool Chicago hotels, but in every list, there has to be a ranking. When all you care about is the hotel being v cool, these are for you.

Hotel EMC2

As the name implies, this hotel is all about art and science. From the robot attendants to the restaurant named in honor of Albert Einstein, EMC2 is at the cutting edge of technology (you’ll even have an Amazon Alexa in your room). Located two blocks of The Mag Mile and near Northwestern Hospital (ah, the sounds of the city), it is centralized, but most people stay because it’s just cool.

Viceroy Chicago

A 5-star hotel with an outdoor rooftop pool in Chicago’s Gold Coast? OK so maybe people stay at Viceroy Chicago for reasons other than it’s cool. It’s also luxury with a capital L. So like, cool luxury. Designed in black and gold with floor-to-ceiling windows, the rooms are v cool. Check out the rest of the hotel with the rooftop lounge and if time permits, have them arrange a visit to Aire Ancient Baths to experience a greek and roman style bathhouse, right in Chicago.

Where To Earn or Redeem Hotel Points

In an ideal world, we would stay where we want to stay, regardless of any other factors. The harsh truth is sometimes we want to use points on a trip or sometimes we’re thiiiiiis close to status so we need to book some stays with a chain. When that is the case where are the coolest Chicago hotels to stay that don’t remind you of why you are staying there? Earn your Marriott and Hyatt points at these cool hotels.

Hotel Zachary

You cannot get any closer to Wrigley Field than Marriott’s Hotel Zachary. And because of this phenomenal location, one might think the hotel doesn’t need to be that great. But it is. Paying homage to its location, the hotel is designed in traditional colors and materials but has all the modern conveniences you’d want. And even if you aren’t going to a game, you’ll still get the energy as you look out at the field from your room or the bar. Truly a unique experience.

Chicago Athletic Association

The website doesn’t look like it’s part of Hyatt, but it is. With restaurants like Shake Shack on street level and Cindy’s Rooftop on the top, even locals find the Chicago Athletic Association is a destination. Situated on Michigan Ave right across the street from Millenium Park in a historic building, I like to this of this as a boutique hotel wrapped in the benefits of a chain.

The Gwen

The Gwen is in another historic building (see, Chicago’s rich with history) but is part of Marriott’s The Luxury Collection. Not only is it modern with better than your typical Marriott amenities, but the rooftop restaurant and bar also has gorgeous views of the city. They’ve also introduced the modern tea party, Tipsy Tea at the Gwen offers tea concoctions like ‘High Maintaince’ which is chai spiked with rum. Now, how cool is that?

Thompson Chicago

Part of the Hyatt family, Thomspon Chicago is located in the Gold Coast amongst beautiful homes but very close to the Mag Mile, Oak Street Beach, and Lake Michigan. It might just be the most aesthetically pleasing hotel on the list, furnished in rich velvets and leathers and designed by world-renowned Tara Bernard.

Hotel Lincoln

Hyatt’s Hotel Lincoln, in the Land of Lincoln, across from Lincoln Park…sense a theme? All joking aside, Lincoln Park is Chicago’s largest park and home to the free Lincoln Park Zoo. The hotel is nicely appointed and has an awesome rooftop bar too. Need I say more?

Coming to Chicago? Check out these posts to help with planning.

• The Best of Chicago (what to do, where to go, what to eat)
• 3 Day Chicago Itinerary for the Spring & Summer
• Fall & Winter 3 Day Chicago Itinerary

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Before you travel, make sure your toiletry bag is stacked!

DISCLOSURE: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. I am very obsessed with FTC compliance so check out my full disclosure for details.

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Short-term rentals have become very popular in recent years, with sites like Airbnb and VRBO dominating the scene. The two sites have a few differences but are mostly similar in that they are phone-app based, feature a large selection of accommodations, and offer multiple filters to hone in on exactly what you are looking for. While Airbnb technically has more inventory, because VRBO only rents entire spaces (no single rooms like Airbnb) I prefer to start my search there. VRBO also lets you filter on some advanced features, like private pool, that Airbnb doesn’t.

One, if not the, most important things to look at when deciding where to stay is location, location, location. Especially in a city like Chicago that has a wide range of neighborhoods (downtown or trendy?) and features (by the water or the train?) you don’t want to be disappointed by where you are staying. Luckily, I’ve done the research for you, and here are some awesome VRBO options in Chicago.

If you buy something through my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support! See disclosure for details.

Sleeps 8

Single Family Mansion

Want to stay in what I assume is a multi-million dollar home in Chicago? This is it. This beautiful single-family home with a garage is in the most prestigious part of the city. 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms so although it will cost you, would be a gorgeous place to stay for a multi-family vacation or a group of friends. I mean there’s a legit wood-burning fireplace in the bathroom. I’m pretty sure this bathroom is bigger than the blue banana. There is a private outdoor space although since it’s a single-family home surrounded by high rises it doesn’t really have that much privacy.

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Penthouses Don’t Come on the First Floor

Pricy? Yes. But these are million-dollar views in this penthouse we’re talking about. And a huge private outdoor space. The living room takes up two full stories so with the wall of glass you can see quintessential Chicago landmarks… the Handcock, the shops at 900 N Michigan Ave, Lake Michigan. It’s a stunning apartment. The unit also has access to the outdoor pool, which isn’t super common in the city, if you are here in the summer and a pool is more your vibe than the beach. Although don’t discount Chicago beaches

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Great for Shopping

This apartment feels like a boutique hotel room. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony, this is a sweet 2 bedroom. Situated between Oak Street and Magnificent Mile, there is an abundance of shopping options to choose from.

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Entertainer’s Delight

This single-family home is technically in Old Town, which is north of downtown, but it’s close to Second City, 3 Arts Club Cafe, and a ton to do. Not only is this not your typical high-rise vibe, but the chandelier in the dining room also screams glamour. The owners will connect you with a private chef or baker in case you also want to have a dinner party or celebrate a birthday. How cool is that?

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River Views

With an outdoor pool, this apartment is in the heart of the city. Here you can take advantage of both the Chicago River and architecturally rich skyline views. Since it’s right by the Merchandise Mart you may hear the train, but on the bright side you’ll be very close to the world-class el system.

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Views for Days

This penthouse features awesome views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, and Navy Pier. The inside is nicely furnished but it’s all about the views and the location. And reasonably priced for bedrooms in the city, it would be hard to find that at a hotel.

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City Living

This 2 bedroom apartment may be basic but it has everything you need to feel like you are living the city life. Floor to ceiling windows, a private balcony, and an outdoor pool in the center of the city.

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Coming to Chicago? Check out these posts before you come.

• The Best of Chicago (what to do, where to go, what to eat)
• 3 Day Chicago Itinerary for the Spring & Summer
• 23 Cool Hotels in Chicago
• Fall and Winter 3 Day Chicago Itinerary

Before you travel, make sure your toiletry bag is stacked!

DISCLOSURE: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. I only feature products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. I am very obsessed with FTC compliance so check out my full disclosure for details.

The post Cool Downtown Chicago VRBO Rentals appeared first on Very Obsessed.

What to Know Before You Go

Since no cars are allowed on the island, Mackinac Island feels like you have taken a step back in time.  Most people walk, bicycle, or take a horse and carriage to get around.

How to Get There

While there is a private airstrip on the island, most people get there via ferry. Ferries depart from two spots, Mackinaw City on the lower peninsula of Michigan and St. Ignace on the upper peninsula. The two main ferry companies are Sheplers and Star Line.

I find this to be the least enjoyable part of the trip.  The ‘mainland’ is overrun with tourists and depending on the weather conditions the ferry ride can be cold and windy.  My advice is to take layers and bundle up, even if it’s nice outside.  A hat, sunglasses, and jacket are more than appropriate for riding the 16-minute ride from Mackinaw to Mackinac.

When To Go

Mackinac Island is a resort town, with the peak season from June-September with May and October being the shoulder season.  Although the island is open year-round, restaurants and hotels cater to tourists and will shut down in the off-season. 

Of course, the warm months of summer are enticing being surrounded by water, having lazy days out by the pool, and dining al fresco.  But there is something magical about Michigan in the Fall, seeing the leaves change color, pulling on a sweater, and breathing in that crisp air.  There isn’t a bad time to visit. I’ve even daydreamed about renting a house for the holidays and having snowed in hot chocolate reminiscent of Stars Hallow.

The Mackinac Island website has updates on when things open and close for the season, so check there before booking a trip.

The History of Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island has a long history, especially for a location in the midwest. I had no idea before my visit but historical references are prevalent on the island and I learned a lot.  

Mackinac was originally Fort Mackinac and an important part of the American Revolutionary War.  There is a spot on the island called British Landing. I imagine US soldiers saying “The British are coming, the British are coming!” (at least that’s what’s in my head).

Throughout the island, historic buildings remain with plaques educating on what the building originally was.  They’ve done a great job with the restoration.  In fact, the entire island has been listed as a National Historic Landmark.

The Grand Hotel

The premier place to stay in Mackinac Island Michigan is The Grand Hotel.  Opened in 1887, the hotel itself is listed as a National Historic Landmark.  If going to Mackinac Island is taking a step back in time, staying at The Grand Hotel is living the grandeur of days gone by.

Staying at The Grand Hotel is an experience all to itself.  It’s a resort.  And it’s special.  And they want you to feel special, and they make you feel special.  During the day it’s a summer resort you feel like you’ve seen in a movie (you may have as it was featured in Somewhere in Time), with bicycle rentals, croquette on the lawn, and relaxing by the pool.

Daytime transitions into the evening with a strict dress code, dresses, or slacks for women and tie and jacket for men.  There aren’t many places you can’t get away with jeans and a cute top but this is one.  Like Disney World…my advice is to appreciate it for what it is and LEAN IN.

What’s It Like Inside?

The rooms at The Grand Hotel are unique and each one is decorated by Dorothy Draper & Co.  While it’s not my usual aesthetic (I generally go for classic neutrals) it most definitely is a vibe, see above regarding leaning in.  Like a cruise ship, there are different classes of rooms, interior, exterior, and balcony.  The balcony with the lake view provides a gorgeous sunset over The Straits of Mackinac.  It’s expensive, but my position is “if you aren’t sure if you’ll return, make it memorable”.  I could sit outside on the balcony all day, sipping some wine and listening to the horses’ clip on by.

You may be surprised by the accompanying price tag to find some wear and tear in the room. Our room had rust on the balcony and some paint chipping off the door frame. While it’s not ideal, there is nothing even comparable to the hotel on the island.  What’s great is that even though The Grand Hotel is historic, it has all the modern amenities like a TV and Wi-Fi (but remember you are on an island so it won’t be great).

The Grand Hotel is home to many restaurants, but if you feel like staying in (after all, a travel day here can feel long) the room service is not to be missed.  Most rooms come with a dining plan or a dining credit and the dinner menu (the fixed, not a la cart) is like fine dining in your room.  Seriously.  The steak frites transported me back to Paris.

What to Do

The island’s appeal is outdoor activities, but in case you find yourself there on a rainy day I threw in a few of those too.

Things To Do Outside

• Take a hike in Mackinac Island State Park.  There are over 70 miles of roads and trails to hike and you can view the famous Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf.  Although at a higher elevation, it’s usually less windy and warmer since it’s a little inland.  Layers are good here too.
• Rent bicycles and bike around the entire island.  M-185 runs around the entire island and is the only state highway in the country that doesn’t allow automobiles.  You can ride around with no danger of cars and the entire ride takes about 1.5-2 hours.  
• Go horseback riding.  You can rent horses and ride alone or guided, or can even rent a horse and carriage and drive yourself.
• Pack a picnic.  Head over to Doud’s Market and pick up some provisions for a picnic.  You can walk across the street to Marquette Park or for a more secluded picnic take it with you on your hike or bike ride where you’ll stumble across many picnic tables.  Note: Doud’s Market is a gem on the island.  They have essential groceries along with prepared foods, you can pick up beer & wine and they have local specialties like cheese curds as well.
• If you aren’t staying at The Grand Hotel, pay the nominal fee and explore the grounds, have a drink on the world’s longest porch, or play a round of golf.
• Grab some caffeine and the Lucky Bean Coffeehouse.  With creative coffee and solid pastries, this is my morning must-do.

Things To Do Inside

• Known for their fudge, create a Mackinac Island fudge crawl and try any of the seven fudge stores (don’t miss Murdick’s, a personal favorite.
• Dine at Woods Restaurant and try your hand at duckpin bowling to work up your appetite.
• Enjoy high tea and feel the opulence at the Grand Hotel

In the middle of two Great Lakes (that feel like an ocean) Mackinac Island Michigan transports you out of the midwest, and out of this century.  It’s a place to enjoy the simple, but finer, things in life. 

If you are ready for some city life after visiting the island, check out the Best of Chicago guide for what to do in The Windy City.

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