Discover the 15 Best Hotels in Chicago

Home to renowned cultural institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, alongside 24 sandy beaches within the city, Chicago remains one of the most popular destinations in the United States. The Midwestern city attracted nearly 49 million visitors in 2022—about 80 percent of its pre-pandemic numbers—and the hotel scene has been thriving, featuring both fresh entries and reimagined classics.

As part of our Hotels We Adore series highlighting the best hotels around the globe, we've curated a selection of the top places to stay in the Windy City. Whether you're after an ultra-luxurious getaway, a trendy spot, or an architectural masterpiece with stunning views, this list of Chicago's 15 best hotels has something for everyone.

Chicago Athletic Association

Situated directly across from the Art Institute of Chicago, this former members-only men’s gymnasium has transformed into the Chicago Athletic Association, part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection. Enter from street level on Michigan Avenue and make your way to the back to discover a staircase leading to the old swimming pool, now a venue for events and pop-up experiences. Take the nearby elevator to reach the newly revamped restaurant, Cindy’s, which boasts the best rooftop scene in the city, featuring Instagram-worthy terrace views of Millennium Park, the flowing Frank Gehry-designed bandshell, and Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate (also known as the Bean).

Settle into the second-floor lobby and mingle with locals as they work on their laptops and sip lattes by the two large fireplaces. Walk through the expansive room designed by Roman & Williams, where light filters in through beautiful stained-glass windows, leading you to a lively space filled with table games and darts, typically open to the public. Don't miss the hidden six-seat bar, the Milk Room, a Prohibition-era relic, as well as the James Beard Award-winning Cherry Circle Room—a stylish, dimly lit restaurant featuring a circulating martini cart and a meat-focused menu.

Upstairs in the historic 1893 building, 240 guest rooms reflect the property’s storied past, featuring gym horses as footbeds, working fireplaces in select rooms, intricate plaster ceilings, and elaborately carved wooden wainscoting, all contributing to a cozy, club-like atmosphere. While some rooms may be on the smaller side, the unbeatable location and inviting winter ambiance make it a sought-after weekend retreat. Additionally, the CAA prioritizes water conservation, sources food locally, and follows strict recycling practices, allowing eco-conscious travelers to enjoy their stay guilt-free. Starting at $495

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

A recent renovation of the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago by Houston's Rottet Studio has replaced the typical dark, clubby atmosphere found in older Chicago hotels with a brighter, more natural aesthetic. The lobby now feels airy and is adorned with oversized floral arrangements; the open-plan lounge, featuring a contemporary glass chandelier, has become a trendy local hangout known as the Social Bar. The popular Adorn restaurant has transformed into a premier dining venue thanks to chef Richie Farina’s dishes, which range from perfectly cooked filet mignon to caviar and eggs. Upstairs, the 345 guest rooms—over half of which are suites—showcase subtle grays and soft greens, complete with deep soaking tubs and, upon request, unobstructed views of Lake Michigan.

The newly revamped spa opened in summer 2023, boasting a city-view lap pool and the exclusive Augustinus Bader Method treatment designed to rejuvenate your skin after winter (the 111Skin Black Diamond Facial also offers striking and immediate results). From June to September, the hotel provides private yacht excursions on the lake, allowing you to take in the breathtaking skyline from Mytour before returning to rest in the heart of the city. Starting at $700

Hoxton Hotel

The West Loop boasts several appealing dining spots, but the standout is the Hoxton Chicago, where the relaxed lobby buzzes daily with locals and guests who come to work, meet, dine, drink, or simply enjoy a coffee. Part of the socially-oriented Hoxton hotel group that began in London’s East End in 2006, this 182-room hotel has quickly become the West Loop's go-to meeting place (unless you belong to the nearby Soho House). The upstairs spaces are equally inviting. One feature we love is “Flexy Time,” allowing guests to check in and out at any hour, provided they book directly through the hotel’s website.

Rooms are categorized as Snug or Roomy (with ADA-compliant options available in each category), all inspired by the area's industrial heritage, featuring warehouse-style windows, concrete ceilings, leather headboards, and bronze accents. Lazy Bird and Cira are located on the ground floor and flow into the lobby, but securing a reservation at Cabra, the Peruvian rooftop restaurant run by celebrity chef Stephanie Izard, is a must. An adjacent pool transforms the Hoxton into a summertime hotspot, making many guests forget they are in the midst of a bustling city. Starting at $359

L7 Chicago by Lotte

While the Lotte brand enjoys great popularity in Korea, it’s relatively unknown in the U.S. (Those who have experienced the Palace Hotel in New York will recognize the vibe). Recently, the company launched a younger, trendier sister brand called L7, positioning itself in prime neighborhoods in Seoul and now, Chicago. The first L7 in the U.S. is set to debut in May in Chicago, located directly across from the river and right on the Magnificent Mile.

Designed for the creative crowd, the 191 rooms and suites by AvroKo feature Frette linens, Nespresso machines, and a refined industrial aesthetic that complements this vibrant area. Aim for a room with a cozy reading nook carved into the window. North or west-facing rooms provide views of the river and skyline, while east-facing ones offer a glimpse of Lake Michigan. In-room dining is provided by Perilla, a Korean twist on the traditional American steakhouse, but don’t miss the chance to dine in the stunning double-height restaurant and enjoy a fantastic cut of beef. Post-dinner strolls across the Wa bridge are a must. Starting at $197

The Langham Chicago

Chicago is home to the skyscraper, with some of the world’s most stunning examples gracing its skyline. You can stay in one of the most iconic, designed by German-American architect Mies van der Rohe and operated by Langham Hotels. To reach the Langham Chicago’s minimalist yet luxurious 268 guest rooms (including 48 suites), you’ll first check in at the second-floor lobby, adorned with silver pebbles and frequented by stylish guests, while the David Rockwell–designed Travelle restaurant buzzes with music and delightful dishes by executive chef Damion Henry during popular afternoon teas.

Housed in the former IBM building, known for its distinctive black exoskeleton, is Chuan Spa, specializing in Eastern therapies such as acupuncture, cupping, and gua sha. Guests also enjoy access to a 67-foot indoor pool and a full-service fitness center.

Guests staying in the rooms, which boast floor-to-ceiling glass windows with stunning views of Chicago, benefit from one of the city’s finest concierges. They can arrange a River North food tour, a Frank Lloyd Wright walking tour, or a mixology class at Travelle. Be sure to capture a photo next to Jaume Plensa’s “Anna” sculpture in the Wacker Street lobby, then stroll to Millennium Park to view his larger installations. From $605

The Nobu Hotel Chicago

The industrial charm of the Nobu Hotel Chicago, housed in a brick-and-steel structure, seamlessly integrates into the vibrant West Loop, an area bustling with street activity. Nobu offers a lively dining experience on the lower level and a tranquil, Japanese-inspired ambiance above. The hotel features 115 loft-style guest rooms and suites accessed through corridors illuminated by glowing wooden lanterns that add a touch of allure.

Most guest rooms provide breathtaking city views, complemented by double-height concrete ceilings that balance the hotel’s warm, natural materials. (Insider tip: Treat yourself to a room with an expansive teak soaking tub.) Begin your day with a refreshing swim in the tranquility pool, followed by brunch on the rooftop—an insider favorite for outdoor relaxation. The Nobu Hotel also boasts the Windy City’s exclusive villa, aptly named the Nobu Villa. From $419

Park Hyatt Chicago

After a significant $60 million renovation completed in July 2022, the Park Hyatt Chicago has reclaimed its status as one of the city’s premier hotels. Situated in the lively Magnificent Mile at 800 North Michigan Avenue, this historic venue has been a landmark since it opened in 1980 as the first hotel to bear the Park name. The refreshed sanctuary now embodies a true sense of place, featuring a lobby redesigned as an urban living room, an updated library, and a dynamic art program showcasing Chicago’s most talented artists. The hotel’s signature restaurant, NoMI—named for its location—offers three distinct dining experiences: NoMI Kitchen, focusing on American dishes with French influences; NoMI Garden, a terrace perfect for lunch; and NoMI Lounge, which includes an intimate six-seat sushi bar.

The hotel boasts 146 guest rooms and 36 spacious suites across around 20 different categories (many equipped with accessible showers), all redesigned by Anderson/Miller with a sophisticated restraint rarely seen in upscale Chicago hotels. The NoMI spa offers a comprehensive wellness experience, featuring Tonal systems, Technogym equipment, Peloton bikes, and a 25-meter lap pool. For a truly restorative stay, consider booking the Mindfulness Suite, which includes an AI-powered Bryte Balance bed, a deep soaking tub, and a private open-air terrace. From $604

Pendry Chicago

Housed in the Prohibition-era Carbide & Carbon Building—an art deco skyscraper adorned with green ceramic tiles that resemble a champagne bottle—the Pendry Chicago hits all the right chords. The hotel features 364 guest rooms and suites that have been revitalized by Studio Munge in a sleek black-and-white palette, while the lobby invites guests to relax by the fireplace with a glass of bubbly.

For dining, guests can choose from various options, including the hotel's modern French brasserie and café, Venteux. However, the highlight is the rooftop bar, Château Carbide. Nestled at the top of the bottle-shaped tower, this secret outdoor space remained closed to the public until 2021; in June 2023, it was transformed into an absinthe bar, showcasing the herbal liquor as the star of the cocktail menu, all while offering stunning views of the city skyline.

Pendry Chicago also boasts a 24-hour fitness center, fully equipped with the latest Technogym machines and Peloton bikes. Some guest rooms even feature Tonal digital training systems. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a game of billiards in the downstairs pool room, adorned with vibrant artwork from Amsterdam-based Arnout Meijer, who explores the nature of light in his pieces. Step outside to find the lively Chicago River just a short stroll away, or borrow one of the hotel’s newly acquired bicycles, complete with a chef-prepared picnic basket, for a lakeside meal. From $676

The Peninsula Chicago

Consistently recognized as the best hotel in Chicago since its debut in 2001, the Peninsula Chicago maintains its esteemed reputation with the finest high-end Chinese dining and one of the Midwest's top hotel spas. Located on the Magnificent Mile, this hotel offers 339 generously sized guest rooms and suites, designed with an understated elegance featuring floral motifs by artist David Qian. Thoughtful amenities include soaking tubs with TVs, intimate dining areas by windows with views, and custom linens crafted by Pratesi.

No visit to the Peninsula Chicago is complete without dining at Shanghai Terrace, where Chef Elmo Han receives praise for his contemporary takes on Shanghainese, Cantonese, and Sichuanese dishes. When the weather is pleasant, you can enjoy a meal or a refreshing mocktail on the terrace, with stunning views of the Chicago skyline. Don’t miss a visit to the expansive 15,000-square-foot Peninsula Spa, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, luxurious facials with Biologique Recherche products, and a half Olympic-sized pool accompanied by a sun deck.

Make sure to request “Peninsula Time” 24 hours before check-in, allowing guests to access their rooms as early as 6 a.m. and stay until 10 p.m.—a fantastic perk for international or early risers. Eco-conscious travelers will be pleased to know that the hotel has earned Gold Status from EarthCheck, marking its second consecutive award. From $500

The Robey Chicago

Hello, rooftop pool! Chicagoans remain hopeful that summer will shine brightly, even when winter stretches into May. The rooftop pool, accessible to both restaurant and hotel guests, is perfectly positioned at Six Points, a lively intersection where three bustling shopping streets converge. This attracts a diverse crowd, all seeking a good time—whether dining at the street-level Café Robey with its all-day brunch or enjoying drinks at the poolside Cabana Club bar, or sneaking up to the chic Up Room atop the art deco tower.

Thanks to the talented Belgian design team of Nicolas Schuybroek Architects and Marc Merkx Interiors, the hotel beautifully merges the original 1929 office tower with the historic Hollander Fireproof Warehouse, creating two unique styles among its 89 guest quarters—located either in the Tower or the Annex, ideal for larger groups. No matter your choice, make sure to stop by the second-floor Clever Coyote, a nostalgic ’90s-inspired bar, where you can enjoy views of the lively pedestrian activity on Damen and Milwaukee avenues below. From $345

St. Regis Chicago

The world has eagerly awaited the opening of the St. Regis Chicago, nestled within the city’s 101-story skyscraper designed by Jeanne Gang. In 2023, it finally welcomed guests and owners with a spectacular debut. The building's architecture features a frustum shape, reminiscent of a pyramid with its apex removed—imagine a popcorn box. This unique form is subtly echoed throughout the hotel, from the striking exoskeleton to the marble tiles in the inviting lobby overlooking the Chicago River.

Each of the 192 guest rooms boasts floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, along with a dedicated butler, a choice of four soaking tubs, elegant brass accents, and gracefully curved furnishings designed through a collaboration between Gensler and the boutique firm Simeone Deary Design Group. All guests enjoy complimentary access to a house car.

The amenities include the upscale Miru all-day dining restaurant, a new concept Tuscan steakhouse, a pampering seven-room spa, an indoor pool with an outdoor patio, and likely the finest hotel gym in any urban setting. Was the anticipation justified? Absolutely. From $779

The Sophy

Hyde Park is alive with activity. Serving the University of Chicago community and its visiting dignitaries, the six-year-old Sophy draws inspiration from local literary and musical legends, whose artworks adorn the walls of the lively and welcoming Mesler restaurant. Claiming the title of the first boutique hotel on Chicago’s South Side since its opening in 2018, the property is located on 53rd Street—a bustling commercial hub filled with shops and eateries frequented by a diverse crowd, including academics, local politicians, and cultural influencers. Nearby is the residence of former UofC professor Barack Obama, along with his future presidential library currently under construction.

Chicago-based GREC Architects seamlessly integrated this glass-and-brick hotel into the neighborhood, while New York’s Stonehill Taylor infused the interiors with vibrant, unexpected elements: lighting fixtures crafted from horns, and circular sofas. The hotel features 98 guest rooms and suites adorned with hardwood floors and neutral hues, accented by abstract fabric art from local artist Joey Korom, vinyl records from hometown legends (like Mahalia Jackson and Pops Staples) ready to be played on in-room Crosley turntables, and novels by Chicago literary figures such as Saul Bellow and Sandra Cisneros. Enjoy a 5th Ward Burger or reserve a table at Mesler, then unwind by the double-sided fireplace, soaking in live music and some of the best people-watching on the South Side. From $195

Thompson Chicago

This section of the Gold Coast is playfully referred to as the Viagra Triangle, yet the Thompson Chicago welcomes guests of all ages. The 247-room hotel boasts a dark, moody ambiance that attracts artists from all walks of life to its chic lobby bar, adorned with vibrant artwork and cozy booths for couples. Anticipation is building for the opening of Tavern on Rush, a revival of the beloved steakhouse that once occupied a nearby spot. Whispers suggest this venue will transform into a culinary hotspot, featuring a cocktail lounge, main dining area, patio, and private rooms across an impressive 16,000 square feet and multiple levels.

Nestled among the best shopping in the Midwest, the Thompson’s midcentury-style guest rooms, with hardwood floors, offer a minimalist haven for unpacking those treasured finds from Michigan Avenue just around the corner. Digital nomads can reserve meetings in rooms named after the Chicago Seven, the countercultural anti-war activists charged by the U.S. government with conspiracy and incitement to riot during the Vietnam War. The Abbie Hoffman room is particularly popular. From $376

Viceroy Chicago

The facade of this Gold Coast gem perfectly mirrors its vibrant interior. As visitors approach, they are welcomed by a historic 120-year-old red-brick building that once housed the Cedar Hotel, presenting a classic image at Somerset, a beloved comfort-food venue (with cocktails to complement) favored by ladies who lunch. However, look upward to see the modern glass tower designed by Goettsch Partners, rising gracefully from the intricate terra-cotta like a chic pleated dress.

Indeed, the excitement is found up at the rooftop pool—one of the liveliest in Chicago, amidst a competitive scene—where swimming is exclusive to guests. Yet, the city's trendiest locals can enjoy the newly revamped Devereaux bar, where the vibe is lively. Guests can also visit the lobby for a sweet treat from the candy cart or grab a coffee to go before hopping on one of the seasonal bikes to explore the elegant mansions of the historic Gold Coast. From $425

The Waldorf Astoria Chicago

The original design of the Parisian-inspired Waldorf Astoria Chicago was crafted by designers Lisa Simeone and Gina Deary of KTGY Simeone Deary Design Group in 2009, and they have returned to revitalize this 215-room gem in the Gold Coast. The rooms now shine in bright white tones, well-illuminated with cheerful pops of magenta. But before retreating to your room, take in the alluring street-level features. Enter through the circular driveway and be dazzled by a Swarovski chandelier inspired by vintage brooches, along with herringbone wood floors and elegant black-and-white pinstriped stone. Don’t overlook the Peacock Lounge and its hidden counterpart, Bernard’s Bar, an intimate craft cocktail and champagne spot that remains a well-kept secret among locals, ensuring a cozy seat is always available. Its themes of Scottish and equestrian charm complement the anachronistic mansard roof and circular driveway, enhancing the appeal of this newly cherished Chicago hotel.

The guest rooms are adorned with oversized headboards and abstract floral bedspreads, while the bathrooms showcase stunning marble finishes. For a more luxurious experience, indulge in either the new 1,800-square-foot Astoria Suite or the reimagined 2,400-square-foot Presidential Suite, both of which will transport you to a stylish Parisian pied-à-terre, with the latter suite featuring a cozy fireplace in the primary bedroom. From $573

This article was originally published in 2023 and was most recently updated on April 24, 2024.