Back in January, I lucked out and was able to book 2 consecutive nights at the Public Chicago during their $1 sale. The 270 $1 rooms sold out in minutes, and many have argued that the sale was a marketing hoax/publicity stunt on behalf of the hotel. The good news is, I’m living proof that it was a real deal, and frankly, my entire decision to take a trip to Chicago with my girlfriends was influenced by this sale. In fact, we were thrilled that we were able to make this trip possible for under $100 each including round trip airfare (See related post).
Overall, we had a great 2-night stay for a grand total of $2.34 including all taxes. The chic boutique hotel is conveniently located in downtown Chicago, a few blocks from the famous Michigan Ave (The Magnificent Mile). A cab ride from ORD is about 20-25 minutes depending on traffic and will cost roughly $35; luckily there were three of us to split the cost.
As you can see from the website, the Public Chicago is a new addition to Chicago, with its grand opening in October of 2011. The Public is a very sophisticated luxury hotel conceived by Ian Schrager (creator of Studio 54). Inside the Public is the Pump Room restaurant, bar, and lounge. We did not dine at the Pump Room during our stay, but we did have a drink during happy hour (5-7 pm). The crowd was a bit older (45 ish), and very upscale. As far as drink prices, they certainly were very expensive for Chicago. I ordered a mojito, and it was $15; let’s just say that I was sure to sip that drink for a very long time.
The staff were friendly and accommodating overall. Since we arrived to the hotel before check-in, they allowed us to leave our bags with them so we could explore Chicago for a bit. We had lunch nearby at Gibson’s on Rush Street, which was only about 3 blocks away from the property. During lunch, the front desk called us to inform us that our room was ready. The lobby, common areas, and rooms were absolutely stunning, modern, and artistic. We were certainly impressed, and most importantly, we enjoyed some much-needed quality “girl time” away!
If you missed out on the deal the first time around, don’t fret. They’ll be another chance of scoring a room of your own for $1. The Public Chicago will soon be announcing another round of 270 rooms available for $1. You must register your email address to be notified of the sale, and act quickly!
The lobby of The Public Chicago was definitely chic, modern, and stunning.
Proof that I paid $1!
We were given a standard king room. I'm surprised all three of us were able to comfortably share this bed.
Flat screen TV and decorative artwork
I loved this modern desk and faux-fur throw.
The mini bar and menu (caution: very steep prices).
Fully stocked mini fridge. Again, very steep prices.
In-room snacks and gift memorabilia. The Public candle costs $65. Ouch.
The bathroom was stocked with The Public's own line of bath products (shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, and bar soap).
The sink was modern and had plenty of hand towels.
The shower was new, immaculately clean, and had the best water pressure I've ever experienced at a hotel.
Lisa, Allison, and I in the Pump Room during happy hour.
Angelina when did you first get the e mail about their $1
sale? I am looking foward to this deal and will be in Chicago soon. Hopefully I can get the dates I need.
thanks for posting.
Indra
Hi Indra, the sale was announced on Jan 17. I just so happened to be right at my email when the sale notification came through so I was lucky. The sale also sold out in minutes so be sure to act fast when the next sale opens! :)
Hey Angelina! thank you for replying. So from 1/17 they let you book until 4/17? 90 days? Looks like you had fun!
Which movie and TV projects are you working on? I was an extra on Prison Break once when they filmed in Dallas,TX at an old prison. We had a lunch room fight scene and also out in the courtyard..only got $65 but it was fun to be on set. I caught the super deal on the Presidential (formerly Continental!!)mastercard. Somehow found a link to annual fee waived so I saved $395 for the first year and I have United club access. So I hope they have a nice United club @the hub because I will be there in June!! Do you have a Spirit airlines credit card?? More free flights…just sayin!! Have a good there. It is quarter to 9 in Tokyo. Have you been here before?
Nice post…and for $2.34, shared by three girls,how could you go wrong.I travel to Chicago all the time.Gibson s is one of my favorite steak house.
Glad to see somebody who was actually able to get in on this deal! You should have just had the girls book their own room. 3 girls sharing a bed? Sounds… wild
Awesome deal.