Francophiles rejoice. The newly renovated Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile offers a five-star hotel seen through a creatively French lens. Plus, its location in Chicago’s Magnificent Mile neighborhood is less than a five-minute walk to luxury shopping, theater, and some of the city’s best eateries. Plus, the hotel has some pretty great amenities, like in-room spa services, a 24-hour fitness center and two popular French eateries.
Sofitel Magnificent Mile: Best for… Francophiles
Sofitel is the only French luxury hotel brand with accommodations on five continents. The idea of any Sofitel, wherever it is, is to offer an experience of the French “art de vivre.” That’s why room designs are utterly chic, combining warm beechwood walls with neutral color palettes. The best French amenity at Sofitel is, Le Bar. French architect Jean-Paul Viguier just redesigned the space with a modern floor plan that uses modern lines and shapes. Of course, hotel executive chef John Taus brings a new creative direction that focuses on Mediterranean bounty. Le Bar and Cafe de Architects are intended to inspire guests with the French passion for an epicurean lifestyle.
Sofitel Magnificent Mile Amenities
Newly renovated rooms at Sofitel are designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon, with layouts including classic rooms, double rooms and an array of suites. The entry-level classic rooms are located on the 6th through 10th floors and boast floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the Gold Coast. Rooms feature 55-inch LCT TVs, laptop safes, luxurious marble bathrooms with separate tubs and Bose Solo 5 Bluetooth speakers. On the 11th through 21st floors, an upgrade to a superior room ensures southeastern and southwestern exposure for all-day light and views.
For the most upscale accommodations, an upgrade to a luxury room on the 22nd through 32nd floor features the best views of the Chicago skyline and partial lake views. Beyond that, resident-style suites are appointed with custom-designed furniture by Pierre-Yves Rochon. Spa-like bathrooms feature deep-soaking tubs and French bath products.
Of course, all guests can take advantage of the hotel’s four-star amenities. Instead of a traditional spa, technicians can perform an array of treatments right in your room. Enjoy a massage, facial, manicure or pedicure without even getting dressed. And don’t leave your workout at home. Sofitel features a 24-hour fitness center with TechnoGym strength equipment, an ARKE core trainer and a Batak Lite reaction training station. Nosh on fresh fruit while you’re there.
The pet friendly hotel also has two 24-hour business centers, complimentary morning coffee, access to international newspapers, and a taxi and limo service. The on-site dining is unrivaled, as well. Enjoy dynamic contemporary French food with seasonal dishes at Cafe de Architects. At night, sip on a craft cocktail in the chic and modern “Le Bar.”
Sofitel Magnificent Mile Location
Centrally tucked in the Gold Coast historic district, you can stay just steps from the city’s best attractions. Magnificent Mile Shopping and the American Girl store is just two blocks to the east, with Lake Michigan just beyond that. The Museum of Contemporary Art, Richard H. Driehaus Museum, and 360 Chicago are all an easy walk away as well. Plus, all of the shopping you can dream of is within reach, from the 900 North Michigan Shops under the Four Seasons to outposts like UNIQLO Chicago and Nordstrom Rack just beyond.
Nearby hotels include The Four Seasons, The Park Hyatt, and the Waldorf Astoria. Boasting four-stars in the swanky Gold Coast neighborhood, Sofitel is a pricer stay than some but more affordable than the Waldorf or Four Seasons.
Sofitel Magnificent Mile: The Verdict
Sofitel Chicago is a slice of European Chic dropped right into the heart of the Gold Coast neighborhood. It offers upscale dining, well-appointed rooms, and an array of sleek spa services. The luxury accommodation will run you a pretty penny, but Sofitel doesn’t have some of the more upscale bells and whistles of some competitors—like an indoor pool or sweeping Lake View. But if you appreciate French food and good decor, it’s worth the price.