Inspired by the philosophy of Albert Einstein, Hotel EMC2’s aesthetic is interested in the intersection of art and science. Casual seating, kinetic sculptures, books and abstract artwork welcomes guests in the lobby. Next to the lobby is the appropriately named Albert restaurant, serving up contemporary American and specialty cocktails. Whether you’re coming for work or play, locals and visitors love to stop by the Archive Lounge to study in individual workspaces or enjoy live performances in a library setting. A Marriott subsidiary, Autograph Hotels are designed to be unique boutique hotels with a focus on craft and a connection its location. Of course, EMC2 is no exception.
Hotel EMC2: Best for… Business Travelers
Boutique business travel has never been as chic as Hotel EMC2. Instead of a cold business center with a fax machine and a few computers, EMC2 has The Archive Lounge, a library-inspired working space complete with modern furniture and plush seating accented with rose gold and green. Or, work in your chic room, complete with an ergonomic work desk and cordless phone with voicemail ability. And, since they are necessary at times, there are business services like copy and fax, as well as overnight delivery/pickup as needed.
Need to host a meeting? Hotel EMC2 has two event spaces: Emmy Noether and Symmetry. The former oversees the Albert restaurant while the latter is attached to the hotel’s outdoor terrace. Hotel spaces can accommodate up to 110, if needed, and smaller meetings can be arranged as well.
Hotel EMC2 Amenities
Rooms at EMC2 come in king, queen, and double-queen configurations. Luxurious beds feature a plush pillow-tops, and you can slide out of the sheets in the morning and into cozy robes and slippers. There are also robotic attendants, Cleo and Leo, on hand at all times for your every need. The decor is modern and elegant, a perfect pair to classic Chicago views from your window. Movable workstations mean you can balance business and pleasure, and desks feature plug-in panels and amplifiers. So listen to tunes while you type or blast your get hyped mix before hitting the town. And there are mini-fridges in each room so you can stash leftovers or your favorite morning beverage. Bathrooms feature luxe rain showers, a lighted makeup mirror and a hair dryer.
When you’re ready to leave the room, dinner at the hotel’s highly rated Albert restaurant is recommended. The eatery serves up global cuisine in a contemporary open-kitchen layout. It offers a great view of Streeterville while you nosh on the best of Chicago food. The hotel also has a continental and full-American breakfast for a fee, or you can order room service and enjoy your orange juice in your cozy robe and slippers.
Hotel EMC2 Location
In the trendy Streeterville neighborhood, Hotel EMC2 is located just two blocks from the Chicago lakefront and Ohio Street Beach to the east. From there, enjoy Jane Addams Memorial Park and the Chicago children’s museum nearby. To the west, you’re less than two blocks from Michigan Avenue and all of the restaurants, shopping and entertainment on Magnificent Mile. Or, head south a few blocks to hit the Chicago River and its dining and boat tours.
Navy Pier, John Hancock Building, Broadway in Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Art Institute are all within a mile, so there is plenty to reach on foot from EMC2. The Ivy Boutique Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago, and Courtyard by Marriott are all within a block of Hotel EMC2, and all offer similar pricing for accommodations.
Hotel EMC2: The Verdict
With Lake views, stylish rooms, and popular extras like the Albert Restaurant and an on-site fitness center, there isn’t much to want for at Hotel EMC2. It is particularly appealing for business travelers who might want to take advantage of the sleek library lounge and workspace, The Archive, or plan a meeting in one of the many event spaces. It’s not cheap, but it’s no more expensive than nearby competitors, and you’ll enjoy exquisite interiors and four-star amenities.