Top 11 hotels in Chicago: excellent options for an unforgettable journey
Chicago offers a variety of excellent hotels to suit every taste, so every traveler, regardless of preference, can find the perfect option for themselves. Here you will find both luxurious locations with rooftop bars offering incredible views and stylish boutiques with a minimal number of rooms for privacy and unique details. In addition, tourists are not limited to staying in the bustling city center, as with so many great options in different neighborhoods, it's easy to find a place to stay with all the amenities you need.
The following selection features the best hotels in Chicago that offer top-notch service, outstanding dining options, and prime locations. From unlimited luxury to budget-friendly, but no less attractive, you just have to choose what you like.
Peninsula Chicago
If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Chicago, we recommend paying attention to the Peninsula Chicago, which boasts not only a central location along the famous Chicago's Magnificent Mile but also top-level service that will successfully complement your vacation. Of course, the room rates are as high as you'd expect from an establishment that sets the tone for the hospitality industry.
Every corner of the hotel is the epitome of pure luxury: from the amazing art collection to the award-winning state-of-the-art fitness center and spa. Among the key benefits of Peninsula Chicago are traditional afternoon tea in the elegant lobby, large fireplaces in the bar, and high-tech control panels at the bedside in each room that allow you to change the temperature, adjust the curtains, turn on music, and much more.
If you do decide to venture out of your cozy nest, you'll notice that you're just steps away from the Museum of Modern Art, a must-see, and Water Tower Place.
Langham Hotel
The Langham Hotel is deservedly among the top 11 best hotels not only in Chicago but in the entire country, thanks to its amazing views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, a huge ballroom, and a first-class restaurant. Accommodation options include more than 300 stylish, spacious rooms and suites. There is also a large wellness center on-site, the Chuan Spa, which offers a full range of treatments, from massages and body rejuvenation to traditional Chinese medicine.
This chic hotel was opened in the summer of 2013; occupying a majestic building designed by the famous Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Another advantage of the Langham Hotel is its prime location along Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile, just two blocks from numerous restaurants, shops, and a variety of entertainment options.
Eurostar Magnificent Mile
When you book a room at the Eurostar Magnificent Mile, you'll find yourself in the heart of River North. The hotel offers modern and elegant rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, equipped with all the necessary appliances, as well as a refrigerator with a large selection of wines that can be purchased upon request (it is worth noting that most of them are very affordable).
A special feature of the hotel is the many luxurious spa offerings, the most popular of which are the following items:
- aromatherapy massage
- ginseng facials
- citrus detoxification wrap, etc.
After the relaxing treatments, you will definitely have enough energy to explore the city. In addition, museums, shops, and restaurants are close to one of the best hotels in Chicago, especially along the Magnificent Mile. However, there is also an excellent dining option on the territory of the Eurostar Magnificent Mile. For example, the new Portsmith restaurant, specializing in first-class seafood, is located on the ground floor.
Chicago's Viceroy
Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, the Viceroy Chicago is not only a fine hotel but also a stunning architectural complex. Each room you can book is worthy of the latest issues of design magazines, with well-chosen decor and exquisite touches such as stylish lamps, golden headboards of large comfortable beds, and massive strips of white marble.
However, the Viceroy Chicago is most notable for its dining options. In particular, next to the lobby is the American Somerset dining room, which exudes the atmosphere of a country club. One of the most popular items on the menu is the perfectly cooked fried chicken sandwich. If you want to enjoy a refreshing craft cocktail in the evening, be sure to check out the chic Devereaux Bar by the pool.
Chicago Athletic Association
The 1890s Chicago Athletic Association has been completely restored and reimagined into a magnificent new hotel in Chicago. Accommodation options include 241 luxurious boutique-style guest rooms. The suites transport guests back to the days of sports association club rooms that have long been gone, and the large windows offer unparalleled views of Lake Michigan and Millennium Park. With rooms in a variety of configurations, this hotel caters to travelers with different budget levels.
The complex also includes a fine restaurant, Cindy's, located on the roof. Additionally, there is an opportunity to savor many delicious foods and drinks by visiting the Cherry Circle Room, which even features a Shake Shack. In any case, you'll hardly be able to resist the delicious big burgers. However, before heading out for lunch or dinner, we recommend finding the game room where you can play pool, shuffleboard, or bocce while sipping cocktails.
The Gwen
Opened in September 2015, this hotel occupies one of the rare landmark Art Deco buildings along the Magnificent Mile. Another feature of The Gwen is its connection to the Shops at North Bridge shopping center, providing access not only to numerous shops but also to popular area attractions, with the Theater District just a short walk away.
The rooms are stylish and glamorous, and the hotel pays special attention to the arts, expressing this particularly through the recently added "Artist in Residence Program".
The Gwen boasts two first-class restaurants and a magnificent rooftop terrace, The Gwen Upstairs, where you can order wine, beer, or cocktails while enjoying views of the cityscape. We advise you to visit the restaurant between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM, as special prices are available from Monday to Thursday.
The Blackstone, Autograph Collection
This luxury Chicago hotel boasts a rich history dating back to 1910. Many presidents of the United States have stayed here, including Teddy Roosevelt. Additionally, The Blackstone was a favorite meeting place for Al Capone and his friends, and the property itself once belonged to Maharishi Yogi, the personal guru of the famous Beatles, so guests can expect a zen atmosphere. Nowadays, it's not just travelers who stay here, but also various bands, especially those who come to perform at the popular Lollapalooza festival, which takes place nearby in August.
The hotel is located within walking distance of the many shops of the Magnificent Mile, the Art Institute of Chicago, and many other city attractions. We recommend visiting the adjacent Mercat a la Planxa restaurant, which offers fine Spanish cuisine.
Park Hyatt Chicago
Speaking of the best hotels in Chicago, it is impossible not to mention the luxurious Park Hyatt Chicago from the world-famous hospitality chain. Located in the lower part of the 67-story Magnificent Mile residential tower, the complex has 198 stylish and elegant rooms. The hotel is close to the Water Tower, and a short ten-minute walk will take you to the picturesque Lake Michigan.
The common areas and room walls are decorated with unique works of art, the total value of which is about 23 million dollars. Another highlight of Park Hyatt Chicago is its scent. Yes, the hotel even has a special scent. Specially created branded scents are distributed in the lobby and NoMI.
The hotel has an excellent restaurant on-site, which attracts both guests and locals alike. In addition, there is a large swimming pool on the seventh floor, offering extraordinary views of the city center.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
Among the top 11 hotels in Chicago, the chic Virgin Hotels Chicago, opened in 2015, occupies a prominent place. The complex is located in the heart of the Loop neighborhood, decorated in white and red colors and features ultra-modern elements.
Spacious and elegant rooms include free Wi-Fi, extra soft branded bathrobes, a coffee machine, a rain shower, and a panel that allows you to conveniently control the room's temperature. You may not want to leave this cozy nest, but you should, because the hotel offers so many interesting things to do! In particular, we recommend visiting the wonderful Two Zero Three Coffee and Wine Bar, which overlooks Wabash Avenue. Virgin Hotels Chicago also has a diner-style restaurant, Miss Ricky, which serves delicious breakfasts and lunches. In the evening, it's time for dancing and music at the trendy Cerise Nightclub and Bar. Additionally, the Commons Club hosts a daily social hour from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. During this time, you can enjoy unlimited creative craft cocktails for free.
21c Museum Hotel Chicago MGallery
This elegant hotel, located on the North River near Michigan Avenue, harmoniously combines luxury and a boutique atmosphere. 21c Museum Hotel Chicago MGallery is filled with artwork and decorative elements by local and internationally renowned artists. Key amenities offered by the hotel include:
- a modern spa offering a full range of services;
- round-the-clock fitness center;
- Primehouse and a craft cocktail lounge;
- a steakhouse and much more.
The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options - from standard rooms to suites, so travelers with different budgets can stay here.
The reception is open around the clock, giving you the opportunity to go in search of adventure at any time. One of the best shopping centers in the city is close to 21c Museum Hotel Chicago MGallery. You can also take a stroll to Millennium Park and get inspired with a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
The sophisticated Four Seasons Hotel Chicago rises like an island of tranquility above the Chicago River. The rooms of one of the best hotels in Chicago are decorated in the style of residences, so staying here, you can feel like a wealthy local. In addition, guests have the opportunity to count on the help of a skillful, qualified concierge who can easily procure desired Bears tickets.
If you want to enjoy the best views of the city and its skyline, we recommend booking a room on floors 30 to 46. For even more luxury and privacy, choose a spacious suite with a living room separated from the bedrooms by a door. However, even in the smallest rooms, guests will find coziness and comfort, as the rooms are furnished with armchairs, ottomans, and round dining tables.
In summer, the favorite place for guests of Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is the eighth floor, where there is a large swimming pool.