Stay in the heart of Chicago but step back into 1920s Paris at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago, inspired by such late greats as Coco Chanel and Christian Dior. Tucked in the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood, the hotel is conveniently located one block from Magnificent Mile as well as nearby fashion houses on Oak and Rush Streets. From the secluded courtyard entrance, this chateau-like hotel is the pinnacle of luxury. It has a price tag to match, but lots of luxe amenities to justify the cost. The on-site Margeaux Brasserie is the brainchild of James Beard–awarded chef Michal Mina. There is also a spa, indoor pool and a sleek fitness center.
Waldorf Astoria: Best for… Wellness Junkies
If your self care routine is your main priority, don’t leave it at home. The Waldorf Astoria Spa & Health club offers facials, massages, body treatments and other gatherings tailored to each guest. There is also an indoor lap pool perfect for getting in a swim or taking an aerobic water class. The health club event offers Pilates and Gyrotonic classes. Or, stop in to use the complimentary fitness center’s cardio equipment, free weights, and medicine balls.
After your workout, take a dip in the heated indoor pool and finish the day off in the the sleek locker room, complete with an unwinding area with televisions. There’s also a children’s accessible pool, so your little ones can take a dip as well. In warmer months, the fitness center’s personal trainers offer outdoor programs. Head to the lakefront beach or park for tai chi, yoga and resist-a-ball sessions.
The spa has some pretty luxe offerings as well, including a whirlpool tub, eucalyptus steam room, dry sauna, and relaxation lounge. Enjoy an Age Defying Facial or a warm Lava Shell Massage. Bringing your kiddos? Treat them to an Ice Cream Manicure or one of the many options for children. If you really need to unwind, opt for the five-hour Restore Package and treat yourself to a day of a massage, facial, lunch and pedicure.
Waldorf Astoria Amenities
Elegantly appointed rooms with contemporary decor offer an array of layouts, including the deluxe king with fireplace, deluxe two queen, and premier king with terrace and gold coast view. You can also choose from an array of suites, including the deluxe one-bedroom suite, Gold Coast corner suite, junior suite, and one-bedroom suite. Waldorf also has a number of accessible rooms with varying hearing and mobility accessibility features, as well.
Of course, you’re paying for the best, so it’s no surprise rooms feature white marble bathrooms with a deep soaking tub and separate shower. There is also an extensive wet bar with refrigerator and microwave. Rooms are also equipped with an executive desk, complimentary WiFi, and the ability ot connect to another guest room. Terrace rooms feature views of the chicago skyline and a furnished outdoor terrace.
Guests can also take advantage of the on-site spa, indoor lap pool, and swanky fitness center. The on-site dining is upscale as well, with two Michael Mina Restaurants. The first Margeaux Brasserie, is a Parisian-inspired eatery serving up French cuisine made from regional ingredients. Petit Margeaux, also Parisian inspired, is a classic patisserie sidewalk cafe, the perfect place to stop for an espresso after a day of shopping. Need to host a gathering? The Saint Germain Private Dining & Event Space boasts impressive views and elegant dining.
Waldorf Astoria Location
The 460 stores on Magnificent Mile are just steps from the Waldorf Astoria, and there’s even more upscale shopping on neighboring Oak Street. The hotel is also less than two blocks from the lakefront and Oak Street Beach. You are also right near landmarks like 360 Chicago, The Museum of Contemporary Art and the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower.
The Gold Coast neighborhood is a ritzy area, so competing hotels include the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, Sofitel, and The Viceroy. The Four Seasons is perhaps the only sleep in the city more costly than Waldorf Astoria. But if you want to stay in the lap of luxury, the Waldorf delivers.
Waldorf Astoria: The Verdict
Staying at Waldorf Astoria will cost you a pretty penny, but what else to expect from a five-star hotel in the heart of the Gold Coast neighborhood? For the price, it delivers in luxe amenities like a spa, lap pool, and tricked-out fitness center (with on staff trainers to help). Rooms are elegant with upscale extras like marble bathrooms and full wet bars. Opt for a fireplace or terrace room. If you have the cash, the Waldorf is worth the splurge.