Super luxe, eco-friendly, obscure and arty, naturally stunning – it’s all covered by America’s ‘most American city’. This populous hub has been attracting business bods and fastidious foodies for decades, catering to every whim and fancy with the very best in ‘have a nice day’ attitude. Book your cheap ticket to Chicago then check in to one of these bad boys.
Chicago’s Essex Inn, 800 S. Michigan Avenue, South Loop
If you’re keen to pack your eco-credentials along with your shades (sustainably crafted, of course), this South Loop hotel will suit you down to a, well, G. Not least for its position opposite Chicago’s Front Lawn (Grant Park). The Essex Inn, with its bronze Green Seal certification features an all-season rooftop pool and garden, a free Michigan Avenue shuttle (to further reduce the use of cars) and a restaurant – imaginatively named Tribute (it’s all American to the core – including all locally-sourced ingredients). Earthy wooden and granite textures adorn the interiors and there’s no charge for children under 17 if they stay in the same room as their parents.
The Peninsula Chicago, 108 E. Superior Street, Gold Coast
With a whole top floor dedicated to its customers’ well-being – from the world renowned ESPA-braded spa, to the 25m indoor pool and a floor-to-ceiling gym overlooking the views of Lake Michigan – it’s no wonder US Health magazine has dubbed this America’s healthiest hotel. It also helps you understand why the likes of Jennifer Anniston and Julia Roberts regularly choose this for their Chicago abode. The Peninsula has four restaurants – including the Michelin two-starred Avenues, The sophisticated Bar and guestrooms that maximize on comfort. Come to splash the cash and live like royalty for a day or two.
The James Hotel, 55 E. Ontario Street, River North
Chic travelers looking for something slightly out of the ordinary will already have this earmarked on their itinerary, whether that stems from a trip to Chicago or is, indeed, the point of a visit. Natural up market products like Kiehl’s are provided in the bathrooms, there are cozy blankets in the bedrooms and one of the city’s top steakhouses – David Burke’s Primehouse – is located right opposite the hotel. What more could you ask for. Oh, a buzzing, casual yet stylish bar – check. A location set back from the tourist traffic – check. This really is home-from-home for boutique lovers.
theWit Hotel, 201 N. State Street, The Loop
It may be mere steps from the Chicago Theatre, House of Blues, the theatre district and Millennium Park. But theWit is truly a destination in its own right. With its modern glass and metal tower rising high above the famed El train tracks, right smack bang in the middle of the Loop, this hotel stands out alongside other noted landmarks in the area. Three distinct restaurants – State & Lake with its acclaimed local beer list; the award-winning Italian Cibo Matto; and the stunning year-round Roof lounge – attract locals and visitors alike. There’s also another lobby lounge, a fully equipped spa, a 4-seat private cinema and a health club.
W – Lakeshore, 644 N. Lake Shore Drive, Streeterville
The W Lakeshore is aptly named – you really couldn’t get closer to the water. Lake Michigan is literally over the road. And the views from the rooftop bar are truly impressive. Sundowners from Whiskey Sky on the hotel’s 33rdfloor, or a satisfying massage at Bliss – the New York-imported, high-end spa – are perfectly complimented by the added exteriors. That’s not to say that the interior falls short though – nothing is spared at this beauty. Products are pricey but not pretentious. Think 460-thread Italian bed linens, numerous fireplaces and white marble bathrooms. Add to that a stylish Living Room lobby and a fleet of Acuras and you’re on to a winner for a luxury city visit to Chicago.
