When planning a trip to a vibrant city like Chicago, choosing the right hotel can shape your entire experience. Whether you’re visiting for business, a family vacation, or a weekend getaway, staying at one of the best hotels in Chicago can make your visit truly memorable. Chicago offers a wide range of hotels, from historic landmarks to sleek modern high-rises, each with its own charm, amenities, and style.
Finding the perfect place to stay in the Windy City means more than just booking a room. It’s about location, comfort, service, and value — all working together to give you a stay that feels easy and enjoyable. Whether you prefer luxury near the Magnificent Mile or a cozy boutique hotel in the Gold Coast, Chicago has something for every kind of traveler.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes these top hotels stand out — from their exceptional service and prime locations to their unique features and guest experiences. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of where to stay and what to expect, ensuring your time in Chicago starts and ends on a high note.
1. The Langham, Chicago
If you’re looking for a blend of luxury, peace, and beautiful views, The Langham, Chicago is a top choice. Located near the Chicago River, this hotel is known for its timeless design, spacious rooms, and excellent service. From the moment you enter, you feel a calm atmosphere that helps you escape the city noise without actually leaving the city.
Guests often praise the floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer stunning views of the river and city skyline. Rooms are large, clean, and tastefully decorated with soft colors and modern touches. The hotel also features a full-service spa, a stylish indoor pool, and one of the best afternoon tea services in the city.
What makes The Langham stand out among the best hotels in Chicago is its attention to detail. From check-in to check-out, the staff makes every effort to ensure a smooth and pleasant stay. Whether you’re traveling for business or relaxing on vacation, this hotel delivers a peaceful and high-end experience that’s hard to beat.
2. Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
The Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is another classic name among the best hotels in Chicago, especially for travelers who want comfort, style, and a great location. Sitting on the famous Magnificent Mile, this hotel offers easy access to top shops, restaurants, and landmarks.
What guests love most about the Four Seasons is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel combines traditional charm with modern upgrades. Rooms are cozy yet elegant, with comfortable beds, beautiful bathrooms, and large windows that bring in natural light. Many rooms offer views of Lake Michigan, adding a relaxing touch to your stay.
This hotel also has a fantastic restaurant, a well-equipped fitness center, and a luxurious indoor pool. Families, couples, and solo travelers all enjoy the thoughtful service here. If you’re looking for a stay that balances comfort with luxury in a central location, the Four Seasons is a reliable choice.
3. The Peninsula Chicago
The Peninsula Chicago is often listed among the best hotels in Chicago, and for good reason. Located just steps away from top attractions, this hotel is known for its high level of service, attention to detail, and modern yet classic design.
From the moment you arrive, staff members greet you with genuine smiles and personalized care. Rooms are stylish and feature touch-screen controls, large marble bathrooms, and cozy furniture. Whether you’re in town for leisure or business, the Peninsula feels like a private escape in the middle of a busy city.
Guests also enjoy the award-winning spa, a rooftop terrace with amazing views, and excellent dining options including afternoon tea and fine Asian cuisine. With its mix of high-tech comfort and warm hospitality, The Peninsula sets a gold standard for luxury travel in Chicago.
4. Waldorf Astoria Chicago
For travelers seeking a quieter, more refined stay, Waldorf Astoria Chicago offers a boutique hotel feel with all the benefits of a luxury brand. Nestled in the charming Gold Coast neighborhood, it gives you quick access to downtown while keeping you slightly away from the tourist crowds.
The rooms here feel more like upscale apartments than hotel suites. Many come with fireplaces, soaking tubs, and private terraces. The hotel’s design is elegant and timeless, with calming colors and premium materials used throughout.
Guests highlight the spa and wellness center, the modern fitness facilities, and the relaxed restaurant that serves seasonal dishes. The Waldorf is ideal for those who value both privacy and personal service. It truly stands out among the best hotels in Chicago for travelers who want both luxury and peace.
5. Park Hyatt Chicago
The Park Hyatt Chicago offers a mix of art, style, and comfort right next to the historic Water Tower Place. Its central location on Michigan Avenue makes it easy to explore the city, whether you want to shop, eat, or visit museums.
This hotel is known for its sleek design and quiet atmosphere. Rooms are designed with clean lines, soft tones, and modern art. Many feature large soaking tubs and windows that look out over Lake Michigan or downtown Chicago.
Park Hyatt also offers a fine dining experience with locally inspired dishes, as well as a serene indoor pool and spa. The staff are polite, helpful, and always ready to guide guests. If you’re looking for a modern hotel with a personal touch in the heart of the city, Park Hyatt is a strong contender on any list of the best hotels in Chicago.
6. Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago
Standing tall along the Chicago River, the Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago offers a bold mix of modern luxury and stunning city views. Its glass design and prime location make it one of the most eye-catching buildings in the city — and one of the best hotels in Chicago for guests seeking comfort with a touch of grandeur.
Inside, the rooms are large, bright, and elegantly styled. Many offer floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase breathtaking views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. The hotel includes a full-service spa, a well-equipped fitness center, and a peaceful indoor pool.
One of its highlights is the restaurant, Terrace 16, which offers seasonal dishes and a rooftop setting that’s perfect for sunset dining. Business travelers and vacationers alike appreciate the spacious layouts and high-end amenities. Whether you’re here for work or relaxation, Trump Tower provides a luxurious and refined experience in the heart of downtown.
7. The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago
When people think of timeless service and comfort, The Ritz-Carlton often comes to mind — and in Chicago, it delivers just that. Located directly on the Magnificent Mile, this hotel offers not just convenience, but also a sense of refined elegance that makes it one of the best hotels in Chicago for both new and returning visitors.
The rooms here are quiet, beautifully designed, and filled with natural light. Many offer stunning lakefront views. From plush beds to sleek bathrooms, every detail is thoughtfully chosen to provide maximum comfort. The lobby and public spaces reflect a warm and inviting tone, while the staff go above and beyond to make guests feel at home.
The Ritz-Carlton also features a relaxing spa, a top-floor fitness center, and Torali — its stylish Italian steakhouse. Whether you’re exploring nearby attractions or simply enjoying a calm night in, this hotel brings together convenience, style, and comfort in one unforgettable package.
8. Viceroy Chicago
In the historic Gold Coast neighborhood, Viceroy Chicago stands out with its art-deco charm and modern design. It’s a favorite among travelers who want something more stylish and unique — which is why it’s easily listed among the best hotels in Chicago for design lovers and trendsetters.
The hotel mixes vintage and modern aesthetics with bold decor, creative lighting, and cozy textures. Rooms are designed to feel both luxurious and playful, with touches of color and fantastic city views. The rooftop pool and lounge area are highlights, offering a laid-back vibe with great photo opportunities.
Guests also love Somerset, the hotel’s restaurant, which serves seasonal American cuisine in a stylish yet approachable setting. The service is friendly and fast, and the overall experience feels like a blend of upscale city life and relaxed comfort. Viceroy is ideal for those who enjoy modern design and want to explore Chicago from a more artistic point of view.
9. Thompson Chicago
Thompson Chicago offers a different kind of luxury — one that’s understated, warm, and very personal. Located in the Gold Coast, just steps from boutique shops and Lake Michigan, this hotel is perfect for travelers who want comfort without too much formality.
Inside, the rooms are cozy and stylish, with soft textures, rich wood accents, and modern bathrooms. Many rooms offer views of the lake or downtown. The vibe here is relaxed but still elegant, and the staff make a real effort to remember names, preferences, and small details that improve your stay.
Thompson also has one of the city’s most loved restaurants, Nico Osteria, which specializes in fresh seafood and Italian flavors. From food lovers to casual weekend guests, people choose Thompson because it feels like a hidden gem among the best hotels in Chicago — calm, comfortable, and effortlessly cool.
10. The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Part of the Luxury Collection, The Gwen brings 1930s glamor into the modern age. Connected to the Shops at North Bridge on Michigan Avenue, this hotel combines artistic design with unbeatable convenience, making it one of the best hotels in Chicago for shoppers and culture seekers alike.
The hotel is inspired by sculptor Gwen Lux, and her artistic influence is seen throughout the interiors — from decorative ceilings to fine art pieces. Rooms are stylish and modern, with comfortable beds, rich materials, and beautiful city views. Everything is designed with an eye for elegance.
Guests enjoy cocktails on the outdoor terrace, workouts at the 24-hour fitness center, and easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The Gwen offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury — a perfect match for travelers who want a hotel with personality, location, and style.
11. InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile
Located directly on Michigan Avenue, the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile is one of the city’s most iconic hotels. Known for its beautiful blend of old-world architecture and modern convenience, it continues to be a popular choice among the best hotels in Chicago.
What makes this hotel stand out is its history. Originally built in the 1920s, it has kept many of its original details — including a grand staircase and an elegant indoor pool that looks like it belongs in a palace. At the same time, the rooms are updated with all the modern features guests expect: clean lines, high-speed Wi-Fi, and cozy beds.
With multiple dining options, a full-service gym, and some of the city’s best attractions just steps away, the InterContinental offers a complete city experience. Whether you’re in Chicago for work or fun, this hotel provides a rich mix of charm, comfort, and convenience.
12. London House Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
If you’re looking for amazing rooftop views and modern design, LondonHouse Chicago delivers both in style. This hotel is located at the corner of Wacker Drive and Michigan Avenue, where the Chicago River meets the Magnificent Mile. Its location and unique architecture make it one of the most recognizable and best hotels in Chicago for a city experience.
Inside, the rooms are sleek, quiet, and comfortable. Many offer riverfront views, and all are filled with natural light and simple modern decor. The hotel is best known for its rooftop bar and lounge — a favorite spot for both visitors and locals.
In addition to the views, LondonHouse also offers a relaxing spa, a stylish lobby, and excellent service. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to enjoy Chicago’s energy while staying in a hotel that feels fresh and fun.
13. Kimpton Gray Hotel Chicago
In the heart of the Loop, the Kimpton Gray Hotel brings together business-friendly features and creative design. Set in a restored historic building, this hotel blends classic architecture with a modern vibe — earning it a solid place among the best hotels in Chicago for urban explorers and professionals.
Each room is designed for comfort and simplicity, with neutral tones, large windows, and thoughtful amenities. Bathrooms are stylish and well-lit, and the hotel pays attention to the small things — from soft robes to high-end toiletries.
Guests also enjoy the rooftop bar, wine hour, and in-room yoga mats — all signature Kimpton touches. The staff is friendly, helpful, and eager to guide you through your Chicago experience. If you want a hotel that mixes classic charm with urban energy, Kimpton Gray is a top pick.
14. Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
Sofitel Chicago brings a touch of Paris to the Windy City. Located just off the Magnificent Mile, this hotel is known for its curved glass design and elegant atmosphere. It’s one of the best hotels in Chicago for guests who enjoy luxury with a European feel.
Rooms are bright and spacious, with modern furnishings and French-inspired details. Many offer city or lake views, and the bathrooms are especially loved for their large bathtubs and fine finishes. The entire hotel feels fresh, clean, and quietly stylish.
Dining at Sofitel is also a treat, with a menu that blends local ingredients and French techniques. The hotel also has a small but efficient fitness center and offers excellent service. Sofitel is ideal for travelers who want a peaceful stay near the city’s best attractions.
15. 21c Museum Hotel Chicago
For something completely different, 21c Museum Hotel Chicago offers a stay that’s both artistic and inspiring. This boutique hotel is more than just a place to sleep — it’s also a contemporary art museum. That unique approach makes it one of the most creative and best hotels in Chicago for those who want culture and comfort combined.
Every floor features rotating art exhibits, and the public spaces feel more like galleries than hotel lobbies. The rooms are clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed with soft lighting and comfortable bedding. It’s quiet, peaceful, and perfect for a city retreat.
Guests enjoy the hotel’s calm environment, helpful staff, and walkable location. Whether you’re an art lover or just want to stay somewhere unique, 21c Museum Hotel adds an extra layer of experience to your time in Chicago.
Summary
Choosing the right place to stay can make your visit to Chicago more relaxing, enjoyable, and memorable. With so many great options across the city, finding the best hotels in Chicago depends on what matters most to you — location, comfort, service, or unique style.
Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of InterContinental, the artistic vibe of 21c Museum Hotel, the riverside views at Trump Tower, or the timeless luxury of The Langham and Four Seasons, each hotel in this guide offers something special. From business trips to romantic getaways or family vacations, these top-rated hotels give you comfort, convenience, and quality service in the heart of one of America’s greatest cities.
By staying in one of the best hotels in Chicago, you’re not just booking a room — you’re choosing an experience. An experience shaped by helpful staff, thoughtful design, relaxing amenities, and easy access to everything Chicago has to offer. So take your time, explore your options, and pick the hotel that fits your journey best. Your perfect Chicago stay is just a reservation away.
