Chicago Hotels Even Locals Should Check Out
By Sponsor in Arts & Entertainment on Oct 2, 2015 5:00AM
There's something for everyone in Chicago, whether it's gourmet burgers in Avondale, boutique shopping in the Loop or the booth at your corner dive. And now that summer's over, it's time to start thinking about how to keep the season's relaxed, carefree vibe alive--no matter what your style. Maybe it's time to plan a staycation? Sightseeing you've never gotten to before or totally indulgent relaxation, the choice is yours in a city like this.
We've partnered up with travel experts at Expedia.com for a look at some amazing hotels of every kind in the Gothamist Network. Here are a few in Chicago that might be just what you need to keep the vacation going.
Come for: The rooftop bar. Vertigo has phenomenal skyscraper views and is a great way to spend an evening partying with your date.
Stay for: The spa. In truth, with a great rooftop bar, an in-hotel spa and great rooms, you don't have to leave the Dana the entire weekend if you don't want to.
What else? Despite the scene-y roof, this hotel is actually a romantic retreat with tasteful, classic decor, and rooms complete with spa-inspired showers, pillowy beds and floor-to-ceiling windows (or balconies, should you choose).
Come for: The pool. It's incredible. Serene and inlaid with thousands of mosaic tiles, it's perfect for laps or relaxing.
Stay for: Pretending you're Gold Coast elite. It's not often you'll get to hang out here as if you're the real deal, so for maximum effect, psych yourself up before you check in.
What else? Well, it's a Waldorf Astoria. There are amenities top to bottom, including a top-notch spa, health club, incredible service, and all the ambiance of its Gold Coast locale. If you're going to treat yourself, the Waldorf probably isn't the worst way to do it.
Come for: The steak. David Burke's Primehouse is famous for its dry-aged beef, and you'll see why.
Stay for: A nightcap. Mosey on over to Primehouse Bar for 2-3 expertly-mixed manhattans.
What else? The actual lodging here won't truly blow you away, but there's a lot to be said for skipping the train after such an indulgence. Simply roll yourself upstairs, settle into your cushy hotel bed, put on some cable, and drift off to visions of ribeye dancing through your head.
Come for: The Michelin Star. Sixteen plates gorgeous, avant garde interpretations of New American flavors.
Stay for: The view. Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal incredible city views in most rooms.
What else? When the food and skyscrapers all become sensory overload, retire to your gorgeous limestone bathroom and sink into the huge soaking tub for a little bit of a rest before hitting the pool, the spa, Mag Mile--the world is yours.
Come for: The history. Famously built by Potter Palmer as a gift to his wife, the whole thing burned down in the Chicago Fire a mere 13 days after completion. It was rebuilt, then rebuilt again, and now we have one of the most stunning lobbies in the city, 7 ornate ballrooms, and the birthplace of the chocolate brownie (believe it or not).
Stay for: The spa. Balance is a Chicago favorite for all the usual relaxation rituals.
What else? You'll be a three-minute walk from the Art Institute of Chicago and well within walking distance of Grant Park, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, the Chicago Theatre, and everything Mag Mile has to offer.
Come for: The view. With great cocktails and unobstructed water views, J. Parker is one of the absolute best rooftop bars in the city.
Stay for: My word, the view. Choose a room with a city view, park view or lake view. Views galore.
What else? The decor is a great mix of vintage and modern and the art here is decidedly not hotel art. If you hate the sight of beige carpet and veneered writing desks, this is the place for you.
This post is a collaboration between Expedia.com and Gothamist staff.