Chicago has more luxury hotels than can be rattled off in a single breath. Historic buildings and age-old structures have been repurposed into swanky digs, and the chain hotels are keeping up by adding boutique flare and local touches. But what if you want to step out onto a private balcony to view the city in silence? A lot of buildings don’t have this feature. But fear not, we’ve done some digging, and have found the best Chicago hotels with breezy balconies.
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago has an eye-catching exterior with curving trim and different dimensions. Guests are greeted with floor-to-ceiling windows, posh furnishings, ocean blue flooring and balconies that overlook the city, and Lake Michigan. Dining spaces are refined and there’s an Italian restaurant ready to supply your comfort food needs. Another bonus is that Radisson is quite accommodating to four-legged guests and families with kids as well.
AC Hotel by Marriott Chicago Downtown
AC Hotel by Marriott Chicago Downtown is within walking distance to major sites and shopping destinations and is a fine establishment to come back to after a long day exploring. Rooms have wood grain flooring with a refreshingly simple theme, and upgraded suites have city view balconies. Bathrooms are spa-worthy, and the indoor pool is as well.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Waldorf Astoria Chicago might be up there on the price spectrum, but the detailed decor and lavish offerings will have guests feeling like they’re staying in a European palace. Enjoy a meal at the bistro before selecting from a vast list of cocktails at the bar. Waldorf has all the expected luxury features at a top Chicago hotel, from a spa offering multiple treatments, to a fitness center with a lap pool. Nothing has been overlooked, not even the addition of terraces and fireplaces in upgraded rooms.
Thompson Chicago
Shopping at the Magnificent Mile is at your fingertips when staying at Thompson Chicago, as is the lake, which can be seen from room terraces. Huge windows frame the city skyline, and you can gaze on from your plush bed. Every commons space is intricately adorned and exudes a cozy yet suave ambiance. The location amongst Chicago’s historic mansions couldn’t fit with the boutique charm any better.
Viceroy Chicago
Viceroy Chicago features rooms with window walls, hyper trendy decor, and wood-grain flooring. Bathrooms are draped in marble and glistening fixtures, so you’ll be able to pamper yourself in true quiet and serenity. Terraces within select suites are spacious with seating, and a rooftop pool deck adds to the scenic spots to relax at Viceroy. Architecture connoisseurs will particularly appreciate the geometrical appearance of the exterior.
The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago
The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago, sits right within the Magnificent Mile’s shopping paradise, so the location is prime. While common area terraces with fire pits are phenomenal spots to relax for the night, there’s nothing like a private balcony, like you’ll find in various upgraded suites at The Gwen. Double doors open from your homey yet elegant room, to an open-air seating area with all the views.
Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago
Flying out early? Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago is just a little over a mile from the airport. Overall, the hotel has a fun futuristic aesthetic, with a touch of classic tossed in. Some rooms have balconies that allow for lounging in the sun and views of the beautifully landscaped surroundings.
The Wheelhouse Hotel
Located in the Wrigleyville neighborhood, The Wheelhouse Hotel is a short walk from Wrigley Field. Old school decor of exposed brick, and intricate black and white bathroom tiling is met by a sprinkling of baseball nods, from scoreboard art pieces to ceilings lined with ball bats. The classic hotel also features a fitting pizza joint and retro sweets shop. And if you’re looking for a great craft cocktail, you’re in luck.
Hilton Chicago Oak Brook Suites
On the outskirts of the city center, Hilton Chicago Oak Brook Suites offers space and relaxation within its all-suite facilities. Guests can spread out amongst their own private living spaces, and sometimes more than one balcony. An indoor pool with skylights offers an alternative place to enjoy some downtime. You’ll only be a short drive from all the downtown excitement, while this area has some cool shopping options too.
Eurostars Magnificent Mile
Eurostars Magnificent Mile, previously the Dana Hotel, is an artistic, chic establishment in River North, along Magnificent Mile, hence the name. Concrete ceilings, wood floors, edgy yet homey aesthetics and an individualized look enrich this wonderful accommodation. Rooms and suites also have their own terraces—grab something from the mini-bar and enjoy the city from above. Since the hotel touted the Dana name, the spa has been a renowned feature, where you can enjoy a massage, and some time diffusing in the sauna.
