The Best Hotels in Chicago

Chicago Hotels – Tips & Advice

The 24 Best Luxury Hotels in Chicago

1. The Peninsula Chicago – River North

a living room with a painting on the wallHotel contact number: 312.337.2888
This luxury property from the current century exhibits exquisite contemporary design with art deco influences. Vertical accents and lofty ceilings complement its ornate domes. Each accommodation is fully customizable via touchscreen interface to manage elements like temperature and ambiance. All suites offer a complimentary chauffeured city tour lasting several hours aboard a sporty vehicle. Massive facilities include a spa complex spread over two floors in addition to an indoor pool and whirlpool. They also house a revered Chinese eatery. Situated on a premier thoroughfare in the surrounding North area near a contemporary art museum and landmark tower.

2. The Langham Chicago – River North

a living room with couches, tables and chairsHotel contact number: 312.923.9988
This recently distinguished five-star, five-diamond establishment occupies a prime location on State Street in the heart of Chicago. The Langham is distinguished by Chuan Spa, the sole five-star spa in the city, providing an exhaustive menu of treatments alongside amenities such as a Himalayan salt sauna, lavender steam room, herbal warming area, eucalyptus steam shower, and indoor swimming pool. The Pavilion hosts Chicago`s finest afternoon tea service, featuring both savory and sweet snacks along with live music. Situated on the north side of the Chicago River within close proximity to shopping and dining districts, this property allows guests to fully immerse themselves in all the city has to offer.

3. Four Seasons Hotel Chicago – Gold Coast

a living room filled with furniture and a large windowHotel contact number: 312.280.8800
Classic luxury hotel located at the start of the prestigious Magnificent Mile, featuring the highest elevation guest rooms in the city with unrivaled cityscape and lake views. An art-focused property, it displays eleven museum-worthy pieces guests can learn about on tours. Many suite options include kitchenettes, suitable for families. Noteworthy kid-friendly amenities comprise a teen spa, kids` club, and indoor pool. Attached to the 900 North Michigan Shops and near Oak Street Beach and the John Hancock building, ideal walking distance to several attractions.

4. The Palmer House – The Loop

a large room filled with lots of tables and chairsHotel contact number: 312.726.7500
Steeped in storied history at the heart of Chicago lies this renowned establishment. Having served continuously since 1871, it was the first and remains the longest-running hotel in the city. Every United States president from Ulysses S. Grant onward has frequented its halls whether for rest or nourishment. Notables like Mark Twain have spoken within its walls and even a notable trial was once held there. Architectural features reflect an elegant heritage through hand-painted coffered ceilings and gold filigree alongside marble columns. Onsite indoor pool and full-service spa provide relaxation as the location in the Loop provides accessibility to destinations like The Art Institute, Millennium Park, and performances at the Symphony hall.

5. The Blackstone – The Loop

a large brick building with a large windowHotel contact number: 312.447.0955
Steeped in history yet luxurious, this Beaux-Arts hotel invokes nostalgia through meticulous restoration. Crucial political dealings and a barbershop of ill repute add color to its pedigree. Visitors are enthralled by splendid interiors retaining unique soul. Moreover, guests can savor delectable Spanish fare at a marvelous on-site bistro, comfortably stationed near cultural attractions in the south Loop behind the Art Institute.

6. Waldorf Astoria Chicago – Gold Coast

a living room filled with furniture and a large windowHotel contact number: 312.646.1300
This stylish hotel oozes urban sophistication with architectural flourishes emulating 1920s Parisian design. Guest rooms range from standard accommodations to suites featuring working fireplaces and private balcony terraces allowing outdoor relaxation. The award-winning on-site spa offers a spectrum of rejuvenating services from facials to hot tub soaks. Additional amenities include a nail studio. Situated in Chicago`s prestigious Gold Coast area, the hotel places visitors steps from upscale State Street shopping and Rush Street dining, as well as within walking proximity to the scenic Oak Street Beach andbustling Magnificent Mile thoroughfare.

7. The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago – Gold Coast

a neatly made bed in a hotel roomHotel contact number: 312.266.1000
Situated just off the renowned Magnificent Mile shopping district, this hotel offers panoramic downtown views across Chicago and Lake Michigan. Spacious guest rooms and suites provide options such as two floors of living space, separate bedrooms, or full kitchens. Notable on-site cuisine includes a polished brasserie and rooftop bar serving small plates and cocktails late into the night. Guests can energize mornings through yoga classes overlooking the cityscape or laps in the pool before setting out to nearby attractions like the Water Tower Place mall, Museum of Contemporary Art, or Driehaus Museum, all within comfortable walking distance.

8. Chicago Athletic Association Hotel – The Loop

a neatly made bed in a hotel roomHotel contact number: 312.940.3552
Originally constructed as an exclusive gentlemen`s club in the late 19th century, this Chicago property retains noteworthy architectural characteristics following a recent renovation. Distinctive sport-themed touches in the refurbished rooms reference the building`s history. Diners can select from five first-rate on-site eateries and bars situated amid mosaics, woodwork, and ornate ceilings. Centrally located in the city`s downtown near major cultural institutions and parks, the converted landmark overlooks a famed sculpture.

9. Park Hyatt Chicago – Gold Coast

a living room filled with chairs and tablesHotel contact number: 312.335.1234
A contemporary luxury hotel situated along the shoreline of an inland lake in the Gold Coast region. The property boasts spacious accommodations featuring mid-century design elements and scenic views. Dining options are exceptional, headlined by a modern American restaurant and lounge with seasonal drinks and an extensive wine selection housed in an on-site cave. Additionally, the hotel sustains an impressive art collection including pieces by renowned artists like Matisse and Chihuly. Other amenities incorporate a spa, swimming pool, and sun deck against the backdrop of upscale retail and critically acclaimed cuisine nearby.

10. InterContinental Chicago – Streeterville

a room filled with lots of different types of decorationsHotel contact number: 312.944.4100
Situated along the refurbished Chicago River waterway, this lofty hotel dating back to the art deco era exudes historic charm and cultural eclecticism throughout its public areas and guest rooms. Hospitality here embraces the heartwarming character of the local community. Noteworthy among attractions on property include an ornately restored main pool featuring stained glass and columns, as well as an intimate wine bar presenting complimentary bites paired with select beverages. Neighboring attractions easily accessible by foot involve river cruising and the renowned sculptural landmark.

11. Omni Chicago Hotel – Streeterville

a wooden table topped with lots of foodHotel contact number: 312.944.6664
Prominent all-inclusive resort located downtown featuring various room configurations. Guests can choose options with fold-out couches, full kitchens, and extra half bathrooms. Popular among food enthusiasts, the on-site signature restaurant specializes in house-cured meats and custom drink mixtures. Visitors can participate in hands-on experiences like deep dish pizza preparation classes or wine and food pairings. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool, hot tub, spa, and sun deck in a prime area near notable landmarks.

12. Sofitel Chicago – Gold Coast

a hotel room with two beds and two lampsHotel contact number: 312.324.4000
This internationally diverse luxury hotel based in France caters to visitors of over twenty languages, with even bartenders capable of multilingual conversations. The intentional sloping construction affords scenic vistas for all rooms overlooking the city and adjacent Lake Michigan. Contemporary interior design emphasizes an elegantly lit grand staircase in Parisian style during evenings. Upscale retailers and fine cuisine can be found directly outside, while a notable art museum is within short walking distance.

13. Loews Chicago Hotel – Streeterville

a large swimming pool in a hotel roomHotel contact number: 312.840.6600
The luxury hotel, situated in downtown Chicago close to popular attractions, provides accommodations suitable for families. Conveniently located within a five-minute walk of the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park and Navy Pier, this property features various room and suite layouts catering to different needs. Guests can enjoy recreational activities like diving movie nights by the pool or relaxing on an elevated lawn terrace overlooking the city. Complimenting these amenities is an authentic Argentine eatery and full-service spa on site, contributing to a relaxing and indulgent experience.

14. Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park – Lake Shore East

a hotel room with a large bed and a painting on the wallHotel contact number: 312.565.8000
Offering panoramic perspectives of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier or Millennium Park from virtually every room owing to its distinctive V-shape, this downtown hotel connects directly to Chicago`s underground pedestrian pathway, allowing guests to easily explore the city even in inclement weather without need of an outer layer. A restorative spa and elegant brass-embellished lobby lounge serving nightcaps complement on-site amenities. Fantastic retailers, eateries and an architectural boat tour await at the doorstep.

15. The Drake – Gold Coast

a statue of a woman sitting in front of a fountainHotel contact number: 312.787.2200
Situated on the shore of Oak Street Beach, this historically significant hotel has long been a destination for high-profile guests, including the late Princess Diana. Suites have even been named in her honor. Five on-site restaurants cater to diners, though the hotel is renowned for its refined afternoon tea service accompanied by live harp music. To entertain children, they offer a The Little Prince or The Little Princess tea program. Additional family-friendly amenities include accommodations with dual bathrooms, an American Girl package, and proximity to the Lego Land attraction at Water Tower Place.

16. Swissotel Chicago – Lake Shore East

people sitting in front of a large screen tvHotel contact number: 312.565.0565
This contemporary hotel in downtown Chicago has a unique three-sided structure allowing spectacular views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, and city skyline from multiple vantage points. Given its central positioning, it serves as an excellent home base for exploring all that the Windy City has to offer. Families will appreciate the connecting or nearby kids` rooms stocked with age-appropriate amenities for guests ranging from infants to teenagers. Meanwhile, the vibrant lobby lounge draws solo travelers or couples. Additional facilities include an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, and spa, making it suitable for mixed groups visiting together. Conveniently placed along the Chicago Riverwalk near excursions like the Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise and Cloud Gate sculpture.

17. Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel – Gold Coast

a hotel room with two beds and two lampsHotel contact number: 312.751.8100
This spectacular luxury hotel maintains an opulent architectural style reflective of the artistic endeavors from the early 20th century. Originally serving as a clandestine gambling establishment before becoming affiliated with a prominent lifestyle publisher, the renovated facility retains its luminescent dance floor and embellished ornamentation crafted from gold and plaster. Situated adjacent to a notable skyscraper and within short walking distance of varied attractions and quality dining options, the locale offers tremendous accessibility

18. Kimpton Hotel Monaco – The Loop

a living room filled with couches and chairsHotel contact number: 312.960.8500
This one hundred-year-old boutique hotel occupies a repurposed hat factory in the city center. Situated near local attractions and public transportation, the lodging appeals to multigenerational travelers. Most rooms offer views of the downtown skyline or adjacent waterway alongside reading nooks situated near panoramic windows. Families appreciate the hotel`s child-friendly conveniences that include loaner aquatic pets, movement toys, and miniature robes. Additionally, the on-site eatery and taproom please patrons with artisanal fare and libations reflective of regional cuisine while brewing beers crafted in-house.

19. Thompson Chicago – Gold Coast

a bed sitting in a bedroom next to a wallHotel contact number: 312.266.2100
In an ideal location just one block from the renowned Magnificent Mile, this contemporary luxury hotel stands out for its creative interior design and art displays. Known for exceptional hospitality, the staff here aim to delight guests at every interaction. The on-site kitchen is renowned for rustic Italian cuisine as well as superb weekend brunch fare. Situated in Chicago`s prestigious Gold Coast neighborhood, the property is within easy walking distance of Oak Street Beach and top-tier boutiques.

20. Allegro Royal Sonesta – The Loop

a statue of a man sitting in front of a fireplaceHotel contact number: 312.236.0123
A luxurious art deco-inspired hotel situated near downtown`s performance venues dazzles visitors with its restored historical details and one-of-a-kind ornamentation. Spacious suites that are twice the dimensions of standard accommodations and higher floors allowing panoramic urban perspectives add to the grand appeal. Guests benefit from yoga gear in each lodging and a complimentary wine social each eve. Conveniently located near notable attractions and with shopping and dining steps away, this establishment also offers ease of access to popular spots along the riverfront.

21. JW Marriott Chicago – The Loop

a hotel room with two beds and two lampsHotel contact number: 312.660.8200
A luxurious hotel located in a historically significant building designed by Daniel Burnham, featuring polished marble and rich golden accents throughout its interior. Originally constructed in 1914 and recently renovated, this renowned Chicago landmark contains an indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna. Dining options include a high-end Italian restaurant and a New American-style lounge. Situated downtown in the central Loop district, nearby popular attractions include Millennium Park and Navy Pier.

22. St. Jane – The Loop

a dining room filled with tables and chairsHotel phone number: 312.345.1000
A stately hotel occupying a historically significant Art Deco building. Designed in the image of a vertically oriented bottle with a foil-wrapped crown, the structure aptly conveys the luxurious atmosphere cultivated within. Public spaces feature sumptuous textiles, elegant stonework, and fine art throughout. The property additionally offers two notable restaurants – one specializing in Jamaican cuisine, the other focusing on contemporary American fare. Situated near the Chicago Riverwalk, theater district, and Millennium Park, the location is also ideal.

23. Silversmith Hotel – The Loop

a dinning room filled with tables and chairsHotel phone number: 312.372.7696
This unique boutique property offers bespoke accommodations inspired by their jewel-toned environs. Lavishly decorated Premium Rooms include extra seating and a pullout couch for maximum comfort. Set amidst the vibrant Chicago Riverwalk and scenic Millennium Park, it serves as an exquisite refuge for couples seeking luxury and glamour.

24. Ivy Boutique Hotel – Streeterville

a bathroom with two sinks and a large windowHotel phone number: 312.335.5444
Stylish boutique hotel offering luxury accommodations in the city`s most diminutive high-rise. The cozy Ivy is ideal for couples seeking intimacy, with a lounge area and seasonal rooftop bar. Most rooms are suites featuring chic, contemporary décor. Stellar location in the Streeterville neighborhood, mere steps from top restaurants and shops on the famed Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier.

Staying in the Gold Coast

a building with a sign on the side of it

This neighbourhood within Chicago has been the most affluent since the 1880s, when various millionaires migrated there after the Great Fire of Chicago. Stately mansions, luxury high-rise buildings, and designer boutiques line the streets, alongside dealerships for Rolls Royce and Lamborghini vehicles. This area is home to a few shopping centres, such as Water Tower Place and 900 North Michigan Shops. But Oak Street is the most cherished hub for high-end shopping featuring designer brands like Hermes and Prada in addition to specialized boutiques. Rush Street is a haven for cutting-edge restaurants along with bars and clubs that operate at a high energy level until the late hours.

The popular Oak Street Beach forms the eastern edge of the Gold Coast, and provides some of the clearest water outside of the Mediterranean. This neighborhood is regarded as the inception of the Magnificent Mile, with Michigan Avenue starting on its southern limit. The Gold Coast is located north of Streeterville and south of Lincoln Park in the Near North Side region of the city.

Best Hotels in Gold Coast

  • Four Seasons – Hotel phone: 312.280.8800
  • Waldorf Astoria – Hotel phone: 312.646.1300
  • Ritz-Carlton – Hotel phone: 312.266.1000
  • Park Hyatt – Hotel phone: 312.335.1234
  • Sofitel – Hotel phone: 312.324.4000
  • The elegant The Drake hotel offers luxury accommodations in downtown Chicago. Hotel phone: 312.787.2200
  • Residence – Contact number: 312.751.8100
  • The Thompson Chicago hotel can be found at this link. The hotel`s telephone number is 312.266.2100.

Best Restaurants in the Gold Coast

Staying in River North/Streeterville

a marina filled with lots of boats on a sunny day

Once an industrial zone crossed by railroad tracks, the River North area was known in the early 1900s as “Smokey Hollow,” since its factories emitted enough smoke to block the sun. A real estate transformation in the ‘70s brought many artists, leading to this area having the second highest concentration of art galleries in America, just behind Manhattan, a distinction which it still holds today. Directly to its east, on the other side of Michigan Ave, is Streeterville, which houses some of the city`s tallest skyscrapers, as well as attractions like Navy Pier, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and landmark architectural cornerstones, like the Wrigley Building. Other area attractions include the historic Water Tower and its tiny art gallery and the John Hancock Tower with its 360o Observatory and its signature Tilt experience, where visitors are tilted over the edge on a glass platform. Together, the River North and Streeterville areas make up the shopping heart of Chicago surrounding the Magnificent Mile, with name brand, boutique, and vintage stores, plus trendy restaurants and bars.

River North and Streeterville are bounded on the east by Lake Michigan at Navy Pier, to the north by the Gold Coast, to the west and south by branches of the Chicago River. Michigan Avenue, aka the Magnificent Mile, divides the two areas from each other.

Best Hotels in River North and Streeterville

Best Restaurants in River North and Streeterville

  • Quartino Ristorante • $$-$$$ • Chicago’s top Italian restaurant. This place is constantly busy, so reservations are advised for this popular spot “where the wine is cheaper than water.”
  • The NEMO Science Museum is one of the best kids/science museums we’ve ever been to. Highly recommended.
  • Tanta Chicago • $$-$$$ • Upscale Peruvian cuisine and excellent cocktails.
  • Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo

Staying in the Loop

a tall building with a clock on the front of it

This is the central commercial area of Chicago, and one of the most important in the world. Named for the railways and cable cars that previously encircled the region, the Loop is true downtown Chicago. This is a perfect location for initial visitors to the city who want to be near the action. This area is best known for its striking architecture, which includes the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), the second tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, and the tallest in Chicago. Other landmark buildings here include the Carbide and Carmon Building and the Chicago Theatre. This area is also home to the city’s most beloved hangout space, Grant Park, which includes Millennium Park and The Bean, and is just north of the Art Institute of Chicago. At the south end of the Loop, you’ll find Museum Campus, home of the Field Museum,Adler Planetarium (the oldest planetarium in America), and the Shedd Aquarium.

The Loop is surrounded to the north and west by the Chicago River, to the east by Lake Michigan, and to the south by the Prairie District and Chinatown.

Best Hotels in the Loop

Best Restaurants in the Loop

  • Cafecito • $ • Inexpensive spot for Cuban sandwiches and quality coffee.
  • The Gage • $$-$$$ • Inspired New American pub fare.
  • Acanto • $$-$$$ • Relaxed spot for Italian dishes with a wonderful outdoor area.
  • Botanico • $$-$$$ • Craft ales and light bites.

Staying in Lake Shore East (New Eastside)

a cityscape of a city with tall buildings

This is a newly constructed neighborhood located within the Loop at the northeastern corner. This region has only recently been developed, so it lacks the long-established history of other parts of the city. But its spot directly on the Chicago Riverwalk, near the boarding zone for the Chicago Architectural Foundation River Cruises, and bordering Millennium Park makes it an excellent location for visitors seeking to be near the activity, while still having a relaxing slumber. Here you’ll encounter clean roadways and gorgeous contemporary skyscrapers, most notably the Aqua, its wavy facade mimicking the river flow. Be advised that this area can be tricky to navigate, as numerous of the roads are split-level near the river.

Lake Shore East borders the Chicago River to the north, Lake Michigan to the east, parks on the south (Grant, Millennium, and Maggie Daley), and Michigan Avenue to the west.

Best Hotels in Lake Shore East

Best Restaurants in Lake Shore East

  • Wildberry Pancakes & Café – $$-$$$ – Breakfast and lunch only. Best pancakes in Chicago.
  • Brown Bag Seafood Co. – $$-$$$ – An easygoing location for excellent seafood.
  • Eggy’s Diner – This small eatery offers home-style meals popular in the American Midwest at moderate prices. Order the breakfast containing potatoes for a tasty treat!

Read More

FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Leave a Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

about me

ComfyUI_00005_

Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

Join us on our journey!

social

Facebook Instagram Pinterest Youtube Email

Search