Chances are, you’ve heard of the Ritz-Carlton before. This swanky Chi-town hotel offers five-star accommodations and some of the most impressive amenities in town (like your own butler on the beach). The luxe address is just steps from Magnificent Mile and the Lakefront. Lobbies, ballrooms, and social venues have been meticulously design drawing inspiration from the city’s architecture. Sophisticated guest rooms feature extra-large picture windows to let in city and lake views, and there’s twice daily housekeeping service. There’s also a spa, indoor swimming pool, and wellness classes like rooftop yoga. Of course, it’s one of the priciest stays in town, but you get a lot for your money.
The Ritz-Carlton Chicago: Best for… Wellness Junkies
If you understand the value of a good sheet mask while sipping a kombucha, chances are you will love all the wellness amenities at the Ritz. The spa offers a serene retreat in the heat of the action, with an array of upscale treatments like a hot-river stone massage, radiance and renewal facial, pedicure and manicure. When you reserve, ask about seasonal deals, like the Summer Floral Reviver offer.
If working out is your thing, you will love the 2,700-square-foot fitness center at the hotel, complete with state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment. The best part? You can get your sweat on while enjoying uninterrupted views of Navy Pier and the Chicago Skyline through roomy picture windows. For those who like group classes, take a class like Body Rock, Total Body Conditioning, and Zumba for a small fee. In warmer months, the Ritz-Carlton hosts rooftop yoga al fresco.
If all that working out and pampering got your appetite going, the spa offers healthy foods and all-day dining options. In the morning, nosh on smoothies, acai bowls, granola, parfaits and fruit. For the rest of the day, the spa serves up healthy goodies like crab cakes, specialty salads, and a Chicago Club with grilled chicken.
The Ritz-Carlton Chicago Amenities
Whether you’re just spending the night or moving in for a month, there is a place to stay at the Ritz. There are one- and two-bedroom apartments as well as several suite options. Guest rooms come in Lake or City view options, and all include large windows, an executive writing desk and marble bathrooms. You can also upgrade to Club Level access, which includes a dedicated concierge, continuous food and beverages throughout the day, a private club lounge, two garments pressed a day and complimentary WiFi.
Rooms are outfitted with elegant design details in a blue topaz or pewter color palette. Traditional and contemporary furnishings are met with the most sumptuous bedding and down pillows. Each room has a safe, thick terry robes and Nespresso coffee machines.
Along with a full spa, fitness center and indoor pool, the Ritz-Carlton has several on-site dining locations. In the historic Water Tower Place location, Torali serves up classic Italian in an intimate dining room. Torali also features a seasonal rooftop for cocktails and shared plates high above the Magnificent Mile. There’s also a greenhouse inspired cafe serving La Colombe coffee and the Trali Bar for cocktails and house-made limoncello.
The Ritz-Carlton Chicago Location
The Ritz-Carlton Chicago is perched atop the classic Water Tower Place, just a short walk to Magnificent Mile and the Chicago lakefront. It’s just a stone’s throw from Navy Pier, Broadway Playhouse and the 900 North Michigan Shops as well. In the summer, guests can step right outside to enjoy a walk along Lake Michigan. Prefer to lounge at the beach? The hotel will arrange a private butler to deliver food and beverage right to your beach chair.
Nearby accommodations include the Cambria Hotel Chicago, Park Hyatt Chicago, and The Peninsula Chicago. The Ritz-Carlton is one of the more expensive options in the city, unsurprisingly.
The Ritz-Carlton Chicago: The Verdict
The first question has to be, is the Ritz-Carlton Chicago in your budget? It’s a five-star hotel and is priced accordingly. But, if you can swing it, it offers a ton of luxe amenities for your money. There’s an indoor pool, spa and fitness center with group exercise classes. A swanky on-site restaurant has a popular seasonal rooftop bar. Luxurious rooms have plush terry cloth robes, twice-daily room service and the most sumptuous linens. If you can swing it, you will experience the royal treatment for yourself.