Why I Love the Drake Hotel: Chicago’s Best Kept Secret

The Drake Oak Brook Autograph Collection Review: Oak Brook, Illinois

I love the Drake Oak Brook. It’s part of the Marriott’s Autograph Collection and sits just outside Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. I stayed there four or five times before flying out of O’Hare. The friendly staff, Art Deco design, and thick monogrammed towels draw me in. This historic hotel offers a luxurious stay for business trips, special events, and overnight stays before a flight. Chicago’s world-class dining, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich history add to the appeal, making it the perfect base. The elegant atmosphere, great amenities, and beautiful setting make it my top choice for both leisure and business travel.

Table of Contents

1. History of The Drake Oak Brook
2. Check-In Experience
3. Room
4. Dining
5. Facilities
6. Service
7. Value for Money
8. Nearby Things To Do
9. Final Thoughts
10. Location

History of The Drake Oak Brook

The Drake Oak Brook, originally commissioned in 1962, was an extension of the downtown Chicago hotel of the same name. It quickly became renowned for its timeless European style and inviting atmosphere. The hotel has hosted many prominent guests, including Rock Hudson, Frank Sinatra, Prince Charles, and golf legends Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.

The hotel’s reputation for excellence is largely attributed to Gino DiRenzo, who served as the catering manager from 1962 to 2009. Despite its success, the hotel faced closure in 2009 due to a Ponzi scheme. However, local investors James and Tely Nagle rescued the property and undertook extensive renovations to restore its grandeur. Today, The Drake Oak Brook offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, making it a premier destination in Oak Brook, IL.

Check-In Experience

• Arrival: Efficient and welcoming with friendly staff. Valet parking is available, and ample outdoor parking is free. Suite upgrades are available for Bonvoy Marriott Members. A free skeleton key for Marriott members gets you a free cocktail at COA or the Polo Lounge.
• First Impressions: The lobby dazzles with its newly overhauled, elegant, and sophisticated ambiance. Step outside to discover beautiful gardens with sculptures, a charming pavilion, and not one but two serene waterfalls and vibrant flowers.

The Rooms at the Drake Oak Brook

• Type: Various options, including suites; well-appointed and spacious on three floors, located in two buildings.
• Cleanliness: Impeccably clean with attention to detail.
• Comfort: Comfortable beds, high-quality linens, and a cozy art deco-inspired atmosphere.
• Amenities: Includes Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, minibar, coffee maker, and cocktails in room for purchase. Clean, art deco rooms with large TVs, Keurig coffee makers, mini-fridges, safes, steamers, irons, robes, hair dryers, plush towels, and minibars. A free shuttle service within 3 miles.
• View: Scenic views of the landscaped gardens or waterfalls.
• All the Autograph Collection hotels have plush monogrammed robes. The ones at the Drake Oak Brook are white.

Dining at the Drake Oak Brook

• Polo Lounge: American cuisine with a relaxed yet moody atmosphere. Live entertainment and bar bites. Open for lunch and dinner. Dress code: Casual.
• Colonial Room: Warm, inviting, and intimate dining with gourmet options. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The outdoor veranda is open during the summer. Don’t sleep on the steak and avocado flat bead, and it’s delicious. Dress code: Casual.
• Aroma de Cafe: is a coffee house offering Starbucks coffee, pastries, and small bites with artwork from Martin Lawrence Gallery. It has a classic Italian style and is located on the ground floor of the main building adjacent to the beautiful back lawn, gazebo, and gardens. It is open every day from 6:30 AM to 2:00 PM.
• COA: Spanish Tapas with Latin fare, tapas, premium tequila and mezcal flights. Tradition meets creativity to create unforgettable culinary experiences. Open for lunch and dinner, this restaurant in the basement of the main building is beautiful yet a little pricey. Dress code: Casual.

Facilities

• Recreation: Fitness center, pool, and spa services available.
• Business: Meeting rooms and business center for corporate needs.
• In-Room Spa Services: The Drake Oak Brook has partnered with Windy City Massage to transform your room into a spa experience. Book facials, personal and couples’ massages, and spa add-ons delivered right to your room. Spa Menu.

Service

• Staff Friendliness: The staff is attentive and courteous, providing excellent service in a light-hearted and friendly way. They are also very proud of the new renovations and are happy to show you around. For example, I stopped to talk to the valet, Ricky, who handed me a $10 credit to use at Aroma de Cafe, the Starbucks in the basement of the main building.
• Responsiveness: They are quick to address any requests or issues. The last time we stayed there, the occupants next door were so loud we requested a room change. They moved us right away and gave me a $25 credit to use on the property.

Value for Money

• Pricing: The rates are competitive for the area. It offers good value considering the amenities and service, including free parking and free upgrades.
• Special Offers: Book the “stay for breakfast” package and receive a $40 credit towards breakfast for up to two in the Colonial Room. Check for additional packages and deals.

Nearby Things To Do

• Family Activities: Visit Brookfield Zoo.
• Nature: Explore Morton Arboretum.
• Shopping: Browse Oak Brook Shopping Mall.
• Entertainment: Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park.
• Recreation: Enjoy a round of golf at Oak Brook Golf Club.

Final Thoughts

Overall Impression: The Drake Oak Brook combines historic charm with modern luxury. The hotel’s elegant design, superb amenities, and attentive service make it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. Whether hosting a special event, attending a business meeting, or enjoying an overnight stay before a flight, this hotel offers an exceptional experience. I highly recommend Drake Oak Brook for its location, service, amenities, and fluffy monogrammed robes. Check out the hotel rates here.

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Location

Address: 2301 York Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Proximity: The Drake Oak Brook is close to Oak Brook Mall, near major highways, and a short drive from downtown Chicago.
Neighborhood Vibe: Upscale and peaceful, with easy access to shopping and dining.

 

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