Chicago’s Near North is a Midwest mecca for partying; a stylish, walkable riverside district teeming with multi-level nightclubs like Joy District, and cool jazz bars like the Tortoise Supper Club. You’ll see the world’s largest art video installation projected onto the MART building at night, and along the riverwalk, buildings lit by blue lights, plus art galleries and bars set in old warehouses. It’s chic and gentrified and an amazing place for a party. No wonder that some of the best hotels in Near North have a hip, young vibe, from chic hostels to cool boutique hotels offering guitars to every guest. Here's our pick of the best...
For a party
- Viceroy Chicago isn’t just a stylish, designer hotel — it’s a popular local venue in its own right, so it’s a great place to stay in Near North Chicago if you like a party. The rooftop bar is usually crowded and the Somerset restaurant’s delicious Midwest dishes are a local favourite. Better still, there are many great bars and restaurants nearby, if you want some variety. Set in a magnificent 1920s glass tower, the hotel is a seamless blend of old and new, with sink-into beds and floor-to-ceiling windows in smart, contemporary rooms.
- You can’t pin down Freehand Chicago; it’s beyond category. This effortlessly cool hostel/hotel in downtown Chicago is a buzzing, happening place, particularly the busy bar which is something of a local institution. You’ll find primitive-chic designer pieces in the boutique rooms and public spaces, Nicaraguan coffee in the café and craft cocktails at the Broken Shaker bar. A great pick for young, sociable couples.
- Acme Hotel Company is for music-lovers. This hip boutique hotel, set in a renovated 1920s building, boasts high-tech audio systems in the sleek, monochrome rooms; some suites even come with an ESP guitar and you can borrow one from the reception if you want. It’s a sociable place, so it’s great for young people and partygoers. Head to the Berkshire Room bar for craft cocktails or book the Bunny Slope with your mates for a hot tub and beers. A very cool pick!
For relaxation
- Eurostars Magnificent Mile is perfectly located for exploring the Magnificent Mile, just a 5 minute walk away from the parade of luxury shops. The smart, dark-wood rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, so expect gorgeous views of the city, and the cool restaurant, spa service and sink into the beds are perfect for easing your weary limbs after a long day out sightseeing.
For a romantic break
- The Gwen will dazzle you senseless and make you feel like a Jazz Age high-flyer. This award-winning luxury boutique hotel, set behind the 1920s façade of sculptor Gwen Lux, is the definition of art deco glitz. You can expect a wrap-around rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and Lake Michigan, and gold-fittings and gleaming marble in the sexy, designer rooms. Ideal for a romantic city break.
For all-out luxury
- You can’t get much grander than The Peninsula. Stood on the Magnificent Mile, with all its high-end luxury stores, everything about this glorious hotel exudes elegance of the highest order. From the Bernardaud china and specially commissioned art to the lighting control and soaking tub in every room, it’s a fabulous, luxury stay. Guests will be wowed by the panoramic views of the city at night from the vantage point of the Olympic indoor swimming pool and can really indulge themselves in the full-service Asian spa and several award-winning restaurants on-site.
For a spa
- The Langham Chicago is really the crème de la crème, with its light-filled white Alaskan marble interiors, set in a luxury skyscraper overlooking the Chicago River and just two blocks away from Magnificent Mile. It’s one of the best places to stay in Chicago for a spa break. The Chuan Spa has won awards for its healing holistic treatments, all inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. The views are truly spellbinding and can be enjoyed from your stylish room, which come with floor-to-ceiling windows.
For sightseeing
- The Royal Sonesta River North is an excellent choice for sightseeing. This four-star boutique is a one minute walk from the Red Line metro, and less than one mile from major attractions like Navy Pier and Millennium Park. It’s the perfect smart city bolthole with an indoor pool and rooftop sundeck for post-exploring relaxation.
Still not sure where to book?