According to the latest stats, Chicago ranked the 7th best cities for a staycation. We think we should rank in the top 3, but whatever! If you’re looking for the best hotels for a staycation in Chicago, bookmark this list and maybe create a shortcut on your desktop. In the meantime, don’t forget to check out our editor’s choice of the best Airbnbs in Chicago and our favorite hostels in Chicago if you want to shake up your staying experience.
Arlo Chicago
168 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60601
Recently opened, the 218-room Arlo Chicago marks Arlo Hotels’ debut in the Midwest region and the brand’s sixth hotel overall. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Arlo Chicago is only steps away from the iconic Millennium Park. The hotel represents the stylish sophistication of the Magnificent Mile, the artistic refinement of the Cultural Mile, and the savvy street smarts of the Loop business district, creating a unified community vibe.
The guest rooms feature modern design and smart amenities, with a new take on the old soul of the landmark 1916 Atlantic Bank building. Arlo Chicago’s on-site restaurant, About Last Knife, merges the sensibilities of a steakhouse with the innovation of a gastropub to offer an inventive approach to American cuisine. It is an ideal destination to fuel up or relax before or after adventures to nearby attractions.
The Ritz-Carlton Chicago
At Water Tower Place, 160 E Pearson St, Chicago, IL 60611
On downtown’s Magnificent Mile, this sleek upscale hotel is 4 minutes’ walk from the Museum of Contemporary Art and 7 minutes’ walk from the Chicago-Red metro station. Relax your mind and body in one of their refined rooms while enjoying stunning views of the lake or Chicago’s famous skyline and pampering yourself with minibars, flat-screen TVs, and lightspeed Wi-Fi.
If you’re not in the mood of going out, turn to the hotel’s sophisticated brasserie and bar, plus a seasonal rooftop lounge. Other amenities include an indoor pool, a fitness room, and a day spa, plus yoga and exercise classes. There’s also a 24-hour business center, a club lounge, and parking for the entrepreneurs who take work with them even during their staycation. Finally, with their newest gallery-inspired suites, Riz-Carlton is also now officially one of the most artistic hotels in Chicago!
The Hotel at Midtown
2444 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Reopened this year, The Hotel at Midtown quickly became one of the local residents’ favorite choices for a staycation in Chicago. Attached to the Midtown Athletic Club, a stay at The Hotel at Midtown gives you access to a world-class fitness facility, a brunch restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, and a spa that is to die for. From spas to gyms, The Hotel will make sure you feel at home yet have the best relaxation in your life, let alone the 5-star service treats you like a royal!
Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown
71 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
Those who book more than seven nights of stay during the holidays at Royal Sonesta’s Chicago Downtown location will get up to a whopping 40% discount on one of the hotels’ spacious suites.
With some of the largest guest rooms in Chicago — averaging 400sft, which is double the size of a standard room in Chicago, and over 81 individual suites, there is plenty of room for you or the family to stay.
Plus, the hotel’s convenient location puts you within walking distance to Michigan Avenue for you to wrap up your last-minute holiday shopping.
Sable at Navy Pier
900 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
The 100th property milestone for Curio Collection by Hilton, a portfolio of one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts in premier destinations around the world, is the ultimate staycation destination.
Sable at Navy Pier is the first hotel to break ground and make waves on one of the city’s most iconic and historic landmarks, offering sweeping, unparalleled views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, truly unlike any other. The hotel features 223 guest rooms and suites beautifully-appointed with a nautical theme that incorporates the naval history of the city’s pier, with weathered brass, ship building materials and the use of smooth curves to illustrate that of a ship’s interior cabin, along with a color palette of mixed neutrals which are highlighted by a spectrum of blues and blue-greens to pay homage to the lake.
Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop
226 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60606
The first Hilton lifestyle property and the first Canopy by Hilton hotel in Chicago has officially opened to give you the ultimate staycation experience this holiday season. Amassing 350 guestrooms and suites between the two properties, the complex offers two on-site restaurant concepts, two unique meeting and event spaces, an on-site fitness center, and an outdoor terrace space.
Through February 2022, Canopy Chicago Central Loop is offering a grand opening special, treating guests to a complimentary third night with the booking of two nights. Both Canopy Chicago Central Loop and Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Central Loop also participate in Hilton Honors. It’s time to claim your instant benefits and member discounts!
Nobu Hotel Chicago
155 N Peoria St, Chicago, IL 60607
Looking for a more cultural experience? Book your staycation in Chicago in the vibrant and sleepless Fulton Market District and have everything from food, live music, to art at your fingertips. With 115 rooms and suites featuring old-world Japanese influences in an ultra-modern design, Nobu is the definition of style and taste. Enjoy your stay with their state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor Tranquility Pool, and renowned rooftop.
If you plan to stay three or more nights at Nobu Chicago, you’ll get 21% off with a flexible cancellation policy. Guests will also enjoy complimentary valet parking now through March, 2022. Nobu Hotel Chicago is also offering guests a “Suite Experience,” which offers a complimentary night when booking a minimum of four consecutive nights.
Ace Hotel Chicago
311 N Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60607
Another great spot in the Fulton Market District, Ace Hotel Chicago brings you the perfect balance of culture and modern fares. If you book your stay now, the hotel will hook you up with $30 worth of food and drinks every day, redeemable anywhere in Ace Hotel Chicago.
With the gallery in Ace Hotel reopening and live performances coming back, your staycation would be the furthest thing from boredom and mundaneness. Check out their event calendar and make sure your stay overlaps with one of the amazing performances coming up.
Sheraton Chicago Riverwalk
301 E North Water St, Chicago, IL 60611
Sheraton Chicago Riverwalk has always been a top spot for a holiday staycation in Chicago. With endless activities within the hotel and in adjacent areas, such as rock climbing at Block 37 and ice-skating at the Maggie Daley ice ribbon, Sheraton Chicago Riverwalk will keep your days and nights full of entertainment.
You can also book the Elf Life Suite that includes festive decorations, beverage coupons to Link Café for hot chocolate, candy canes, and an elf to bring back home during the holiday season or participate in the hidden elf hunt. If you find all 5 elves, you can redeem a secret prize!
The Blackstone, Autograph Collection
636 South Michigan Avenue, E Balbo Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Elegant and classic, The Blackstone will sweep you off your feet with its gorgeous architecture and modern amenities. When you book your room, you also receive a $50 meal credit to dine-in, carry out or receive delivery from Eleven City Diner, and a $50 spa credit at K’Alma Spa redeemable as room service.
During the holiday season, guests can enjoy a classic display featuring dazzling toy trains. Hear hissing steam, squeaking metal, and whistles blowing in the lobby of the storied architectural icon rooted in Chicago’s legendary past.
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel
221 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
Every Blu down in Bluville likes the holidays a lot, which is why this season Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel thought, 2021 is the year to bring Bluville to Chicago, because why not! This December, the hotel is featuring a very merry holiday tree with decorations both big and small for all to see. FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar is serving new Bluville treats, such as festive cocktails that are tasty and sweet.
Also, proceeds from all stays in December will be donated to the Pediatric Cardiology Center at Lurie Children’s Hospital, a miracle we can all believe!
Hyatt Lodge
2815 Jorie Blvd, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Treat yourself to a special experience at Oak Brook’s most unique hotel with beautiful lakes, streams, and wooded trails. The rooms and suites at Hyatt Lodge feature Hyatt’s signature Grand Bed, elegant and modern interiors, high-speed wifi, and pampering amenities. Each guest room also features marble baths with spa showers and Portico amenities. Meanwhile, Midtown Spa & Fitness features a 70-foot recreational pool with lap swim.
If you’re part of Hyatt’s reward program, they offer bonus points for qualifying stays from January 15 through April 20, 2022. You may also get double points depending on your booking.
The Rose Hotel Chicago O’Hare
5200 Pearl St, Rosemont, IL 60018
An energetic and edgy boutique hotel, The Rose Hotel features 165 stylish guest rooms and suites, all curated through DLR, Getty’s Group, and Janko Group contributions.
Visually stimulating art, thoughtfully woven throughout the design of each room, creates an elegant and innovative ambiance, perfect for all families to enjoy. Each guest room has all-down alternative bedding, triple-pane windows to eliminate airplane noise, and a pillow menu, offering a personalized sleep experience.
So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable staycation in Chicago, check out Rose Hotel at O’Hare.
Ambassador Chicago
1301 N State Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60610
Nestled among historic mansions in a quiet, gilded neighborhood in the Windy City, Ambassador Chicago is only steps from Lake Michigan and premiere shopping on Oak Street and the Magnificent Mile. Guests can enjoy $8 specialty cocktails from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, Monday through Friday, or indulge in the Bottomless Mimosa available Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM for $30/person!
You might even be surprised by one of their live performances or artist events!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CsMpenEp74C/?hl=en
Park Hyatt
800 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
We all know Chicago is an art town to the point plenty of our hotels are full of artsy vibes, and Park Hyatt is one of your best choices for those looking for an artistic and luxurious staycation in Chicago. Embracing the surrounding elements of the Windy City, Park Hyatt is a serene escape in the city’s heart. The hotel also recently kick-opened the NoMI Gallery featuring a series of rotating exhibits celebrating the artwork of esteemed Chicago-based artists that will live on the acclaimed hotel’s seventh floor.
Featured Image Credit: The Hotel at Midtown