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Chicago
The 20 Best Hotels in Chicago with a View

The 20 Best Hotels in Chicago with a View

Chicago has one of the USA's most iconic cityscapes. Several prominent buildings built by renowned architects stand tall and make a striking backdrop to Lake Michigan. Conversely, the best hotels in Chicago with a view are the ones that stand near the lake waterfront and offer city and lake views. However, if you can't get lake views, then the river views are also pretty spectacular. The city has a wide range of really excellent hotels to choose from including everything from grand luxury stays to charming boutiques with a slightly more attractive price tag. Our hotel experts have compiled a collection of their favourites chosen on their design, amenities, service, and (of course) their views. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next trip?

For a rooftop pool

The Robey is a modern boutique hotel set in a striking art-deco building in Wicker Park. Pick this property for the chic whitewashed rooms (many of which have epic city views) and the French-American restaurant. However, the real lure is (obviously) the rooftop pool and bar.

For lake views

Hotel Lincoln is well situated opposite Lincoln Park. Rooms are mostly lake facing with local artworks and luxe facilities. A fun-loving hotel with a farm-to-fork restaurant and a rooftop bar with stunning views. A great value spot to explore from.
Loews Chicago is a cool contemporary option near Chicago's lakefront. Sleek rooms offer fabulous city views from the enormous windows. Complete with a large indoor pool, rooftop bar, and acclaimed restaurant — this property has it all.
Once the tallest building in the city, The Blackstone is a historic grand dame updated to the 21st Century. Expect wood-panelling, chandeliers and double-height ceilings combining with buzzing restaurants, an extensive art collection and quirky modern furniture. Many of the rooms also boast wonderful lake views. Having hosted many Presidents and celebrities, you can be sure of a very trendy crowd.
Lively Thompson Chicago is a converted mansion with a fabulous city centre position offering superb Magnificent Mile and lakeside views. Stylish, contemporary, and with an acclaimed Italian restaurant and trendy bar — this well-priced downtown stay is an alluring choice.
W Chicago Lakeshore is a bold business hotel overlooking Lake Michigan. Rooms resemble cruise liner cabins with impressive views and a stylish mishmash of colours and textures. An indoor pool, spa, yoga classes, buzzing restaurant and a helpful concierge help make the most of downtime.

For a boutique

The Gwen has undergone a divine transformation from historic building to luxury boutique hotel. Art Deco glamour reigns supreme in the rooms, restaurants and the chic wrap-around rooftop bar. Expect jewel tones, gold fittings, glossy marble and epic city views. A sexy and stylish stay.
Sophy Hyde Park is a contemporary yet cosy boutique property located in Chicago's culturally rich Hyde Park district. Whether you want to feel the city's pulse, see the sites or dine like a local, this impressive hotel is a winner. Decor is eclectic, fun and warm with fantastic artwork and rooms have phenomenal city views.

For the design

TheWit Hotel is a playful and buzzy hotel with spacious rooms and luxury creature comforts. Expect high ceilings, large windows with skyline views and bold flashes of colour all around. Dine at the excellent on-site restaurant and enjoy the 27th-floor rooftop bar.

For luxury

Chicago Athletic Association was a Gentleman's club in the early 1800s which has now opened its Venetian Gothic doors to all. Boasting large, retro rooms with Millennium Park views; Cherry Circle Room catches the essence of its former dining glory while the rooftop bar completes the picture on this old-school-cool stay.
Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile offers sleek luxury within a striking futuristic city tower. Light-filled rooms feel like homely enclaves while public spaces evoke Chicago's iconic skyscrapers. Decor blends blonde wood with contemporary prints while city views come as no surprise from the building's high vantage.
Viceroy Chicago is a magnificent hybrid of old and new, a perfectly preserved 1920's facade attached to a glistening glass tower in downtown Chicago. Inside you will find the same paradoxes; the rooms are spectacular and so are the views from their floor to ceiling windows. The rooftop bar draws a crowd, as does The Somerset restaurant downstairs. Luxury defined.
Royal Sonesta Chicago River North is a 4* hotel that mixes elegant traditional design with contemporary flair. Rooms have great city views from floor-to-ceiling windows. Expect all the usual luxury amenities including an indoor pool, spa, restaurant, and a rooftop bar.
Luxurious Ritz Carlton Chicago occupies floors between the 12th & 30th storeys of a Lake Michigan waterfront tower. Serene rooms feel like you're floating in the sky with phenomenal views and cloud-like beds. For those who appreciate birds-eye views from bed, fine dining, an A-list art collection and a spoiling spa — this is for you.

For foodies

At Nobu Hotel Chicago, sexy city style meets world-class cuisine on Chicago's 'restaurant row'. Rooms are a masterclass in luxurious restraint; think 'wow' floor-to-ceiling views, Japanese tubs and Asian-inspired minimalist furniture. Enjoy Nobu culinary favourites, a slick indoor pool and a skyline-facing rooftop terrace. Perfect for a food-centric city break.

For a bathroom with a view

The Peninsula Chicago stands out for its perfectly central location and its dignified grandeur. Expect luxury touches such as specially commissioned artworks and glorious soaking tubs with epic city views. With three award-winning restaurants and a spa that offers treatments inspired by Ayurvedic and Asian philosophies — you'll want for nothing here.
The Langham, Chicago is a very well positioned option located on the river in downtown. Elegant rooms are classic in their design with views from picture windows stealing the show. Amenities include an exclusive members club, gym, restaurant, bar, award-winning spa and indoor pool. A 'has-it-all' option, ideal for city exploring.

For families

Four Seasons Chicago is a luxury offering with excellent amenities and classic design plus wonderful lake views. Adults will enjoy the full-service spa, hot tub and bar, while kids will be kept entertained at the kids club or playing in the indoor pool. With family suites and a concierge very willing to plan a day out suited for all ages, this is a great choice for a family city break.

Still not sure where to book?

Browse our list of the best places to stay in Chicago.
Check out all our recommendations in Illinois.
Refine your search and look at the best hotels in West Loop, Chicago or the best hotels with rooftop pools in Chicago or the best five-star hotels in Chicago or cool hotels in Chicago.
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- The Robey Chicago (Wicker Park) 89 rooms from $135
  
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  City Style  -  Chic accommodation in a historic building evoking memories of bygone years
  Local exploring  -  Make the most out of The Robey's location to truly get to know Chicago
  Sights nearby  -  Head over to Wrigley Field and enjoy a Cubs game or give the Lioncoln Park Zoo a visit
  Views  -  For great views book either a Corner Suite or Panorama Suite
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Situated in Chicago's Wicker Park, The Robey is set in the art-deco former Northwest Tower building and provides boutique, upmarket accommodation. Expect fresh and contemporary design. Café Robey serves up French-American fusion cuisine and cocktails are served on the rooftop lounge. Superb! See More
  
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- Hotel Lincoln Chicago (Lincoln Park) 184 rooms from $150
  
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  Views  -  Many of the rooms boast great views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline
  Great walks  -  Go for a stroll through Lincoln Park which the hotel overlooks.
  Sights nearby  -  Wrigley Field is nearby.
  Short break
  
  On the north side of Chicago opposite Lincoln Park rests the newly renovated Hotel Lincoln. Rooms are mostly lake facing with local art works and all facilities. This fun-loving hotel houses the farm-to-fork Perennial Virant restaurant and a rooftop bar for stunning views. Great spot to explore. See More
  
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- Loews Chicago Chicago (Near North Side) 400 rooms from $151
  
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  Families  -  As well as helpful equipment, the hotel also provides iPads loaded with age-appropriate games, consoles, toys & activity books
  Value chic  -  Entry-level rates are incredibly reasonable given the central downtown location and five-star facilities
  Sights nearby  -  The city's Wrigley Building, Arts Club of Chicago, Chicago Tribune Tower and Time Life Building are within 500 metres
  Views  -  Floor to ceiling windows allow superb city skyline views; for something special book a lake view suite
  
  Cool, contemporary city style near Chicago's river and lake front. Spacious and grown-up rooms blend a luxury palette of charcoal and silver hues, with enormous windows. Take in lake views from the rooftop bar after a great steak at the restaurant. There's a large pool and welcoming lobby lounge. See More
  
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- The Gwen Chicago (Near North Side) 311 rooms from $153
  
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  City Style  -  Will suit those after a brilliant location, understated luxury, beautiful interiors and excellent dining experiences
  Sights nearby  -  Chicago is an architectural heaven. In the area look out for the Wrigley Building, neo-Gothic Tribune Tower & Time Life Building
  Great walks  -  The property is just 2 blocks from the Chicago River; easily get onto the city's scenic River Walk
  Views  -  All the suites come with spectacular city views
  
  Divine transformation from a historic building to a luxury boutique hotel. 1920s sculptor Gwen Lux is behind the façade; Art Deco glamour reigns supreme in the rooms, restaurants & a wrap-around rooftop bar. Expect jewel tones, gold fittings, glossy marble & epic city views. A sexy & stylish stay. See More
  
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- Four Seasons Chicago Chicago (Near North Side) 346 rooms from $575
  
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  Sights nearby  -  In downtown Chicago there is a multitude of architectural splendour, museums and art galleries in the near vicinity.
  Restaurant  -  With views over the lake, you can enjoy a meal of gourmet farm-to-table regional fare in an elegant location.
  Views  -  Panoramic views over Chicago and Lake Michigan.
  Spa  -  Body treatments, facial, massages and sauna.
  
  All rooms and suites are stylishly furnished with French furniture, floral motifs, art adorning the walls, and shades of plum, champagne, rose and dove grey. Beautiful views over Chicago or Lake Michigan. Spectacular indoor pool under a domed skylight. Gym, full-service spa, hot tub, restaurant. See More
  
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- The Blackstone Chicago (The Loop) 335 rooms from $187
  
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  City Style  -  A Chicago institution dripping in history which feels cool, chic and on the pulse
  Great walks  -  Grant Park is literally on the doorstep. Explore Millenium Park, world-famous Cloud Atlas and Buckingham Fountain
  Views  -  Many rooms have views of Lake Michigan and Grant Park
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  
  Historic grand-dame updated for the 21st-century. Built in the Beaux-Art era, this city-centre luxury hotel is the epitome of boutique glamour. Wood-panelling, chandeliers & double-height ceilings combine with buzzing restaurants, extensive art collection & quirky modern furniture to great effect. See More
  
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- Sophy Hyde Park Chicago (Hyde Park) 98 rooms from $190
  
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  Business meetings  -  A good choice for non-corporate off-sites or meetings due to the university location and buzzing dining options
  City Style  -  Not many properties manage to combine boutique cool and charm with so many facilities and a wonderful location
  Local exploring  -  There are museums, galleries, restaurants, boutiques, parks and cultural sites galore on the doorstep
  Great walks  -  Take a stroll or a jog in the very pleasant Midway - one of Chicago's famous city parks
  
  A contemporary yet cosy boutique hotel located in Chicago's culturally-rich Hyde Park district. Whether you want to feel the city's pulse, see the sites or dine like a local, this impressive hotel is a winner. Decor is eclectic, fun and warm with fantastic artwork. Rooms have phenomenal city views. See More
  
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- Chicago Athletic Association Chicago (The Loop) 241 rooms from $190
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Millennium Park is in close proximity to the hotel.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  Full of character
  
  Gentleman's club in the early 1800s now opens its Venetian Gothic doors to business travellers, leisure seekers and city slickers. Large, retro rooms boasting Millennium Park views. Cherry Circle Room catches the essence of its former dining purpose. Remember the bar up on Cindy's Roof Top Terrace. See More
  
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- Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile Chicago (Near North Side) 415 rooms from $191
  
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  Value chic  -  Considering the incredible central location, city views, spacious rooms and luxury facilities, this is a steal
  Local exploring  -  Magnificent Mile has it all; shops, sites, parks, lake access, beautiful buildings and interesting museums
  Sights nearby  -  The Mile is famous for its architectural gems; the historic Chicago Water Tower and terracotta Wrigley Building skyscraper
  Great walks  -  It's just over a mile walk to the shores of Lake Michigan. Head that way for wonderful lake views and bracing fresh air
  
  Sleek luxury located in a striking futuristic city tower. Light-filled rooms feel like homely enclaves while public spaces evoke Chicago's iconic skyscrapers; the lobby resembles a space shuttle. Decor blends blonde wood with contemporary prints. Dine at the French restaurant - very chic. See More
  
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- The Peninsula Chicago Chicago (Near North Side) 339 rooms from $500
  
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  Spa  -  The Peninsula Spa is inspired by Ayurvedic and Asian philosophies, wih massages and therapy treatments to soothe any ailment.
  Sights nearby  -  The Museum of Contemporary Art, Driehaus Museum and beloved Chicago Water Tower are all a 5 minute stroll from the Peninsula.
  Lively area  -  Located in the Near North area of Downtown Chicago, along the electric Magnificent Mile.
  Restaurant  -  The Lobby is an elegant location serving contemporary American cuisine.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  The Peninsula exudes dignified grandeur. Rooms feature touches of high-class elegance such as Bernaudaud china, soaking tubs in bathrooms and specially commissioned art. Impeccable views of glittering downtown Chicago from most rooms and suites. Pool, gym, spa, three award-winning restaurants. See More
  
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- Ritz Carlton Chicago Chicago (Near North Side) 434 rooms from $410
  
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  Designer Shopping  -  The hotel is attached to Water Tower Place, home of Macy's, so it's not far to the shops. Michigan Avenue is just a block away
  City Style  -  If you appreicate birds-eye views from bed, fine dining, an A-list art collection and spoiling spa, this is the place for you
  Families  -  Kids are very welcome; on arrival they pick a toy of their choice, plus special kid's healthy menu & candy cart room service
  Spa  -  Overseen by the experts at Kalma Spas, treatments, including facials and massages, are designed to heal, relax and renew
  
  Luxury urban resort spread between the 12th & 30th floors of a Lake Michigan tower. Serene rooms feel like you're floating in the sky with phenomenal views and cloud-like beds. Enjoy the Italian steakhouse, spa, indoor pool, and a very cool rooftop bar. Classic contemporary city luxury, a safe bet. See More
  
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- The Langham, Chicago Chicago (Near North Side) 268 rooms from $550
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Located right next to the ostentatious and famous Trump Tower and less than a mile from the Museum of Contemporary Art.
  Spa  -  The award winning Chuan Spa offers a range of holistic treatments to relax, renew and pamper
  Swimming Pool  -  67 foot heated indoor pool
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  
  Overlooking the Chicago River and surrounded by downtown Chi-town skyscrapers, this hotel is a glamorous choice for the discerning traveller. Rooms feature a cream canvas, dark polished woods and royal purple throws. Gym, spa, pool. Exclusive private members' club with city views. Restaurant, bar. See More
  
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- theWit Hotel Chicago (The Loop) 310 rooms from $197
  
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  City Style  -  A reminder of how fun city hotels can be. Stay here for a real feel of Chicago's bright lights
  Great walks  -  It's a very short walk to Grant Park. Visit Millenium Park with its famous Cloud Gate sculpture
  Spa  -  Spa@TheWit offers a range of treatments and massages
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  
  Bright lights in the big city. Playful and buzzing hotel with spacious rooms and luxury creature comforts. Expect high ceilings, large windows with skyline views and bold flashes of colour all around. Dine at the excellent on-site restaurant. The 27th-floor rooftop bar is a reason to stay in itself. See More
  
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- Royal Sonesta Chicago River North Chicago (Near North Side) 261 rooms from $240
  
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  Views  -  Rooms offer great city views from floor to ceiling windows
  Whirlpool Bathtub  -  Book one of the spa suites for a Fuji jet soaking tub
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor heated pool open year round
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  
  This boutique hotel in the River North district offers an indoor pool, in-room spa treatments, restaurant and popular bar. Rooms are modern with designer bathroom features. Business and fitness centres on site. Proximity to Navy Pier, Michigan Lake and Chicago's landmarks and galleries. See More
  
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- W Chicago Lakeshore Chicago (Near North Side) 368 rooms from $323
  
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  Business meetings  -  The hotel's high-tech event management makes anything from large conferences to small off-sites easy to arrange
  Local exploring  -  Explore the city's lakeside area, yet many of the downtown perks are walkable
  Great walks  -  It's a very short walk to Ohio Beach for swimming or sunbathing with city views
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor heated pool
  
  Work hard and party harder. Bold business hotel overlooking Lake Michigan. Rooms resemble cruise liner cabins with impressive views and a stylish mishmash of colours & textures. An indoor pool, spa, yoga classes, buzzing restaurant and a helpful concierge helps make the most of downtime. See More
  
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- Nobu Hotel Chicago Chicago (West Loop) 115 rooms from $210
  
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  Foodies  -  Nobu's black cod & iconic Bento Boxes are famous the world over. Enjoy Japanese culinary delights without the need to head home
  Romantic Break  -  Spend afternoons by the indoor pool before a special evening of dinner and cocktails with incredible Chicago skyline views
  Great walks  -  Walk off delicious meals with a wander down West Randolph Street, the city's foodie hotspot
  Local markets  -  Walk to nearby Chicago French Market, the city’s only year-round indoor marketplace
  
  Sexy city style meets world-class cuisine on Chicago's 'restaurant row'. Rooms are a masterclass in luxurious restraint; think 'wow' floor-to-ceiling views, Japanese tubs and Asian-inspired minimalist furniture. Enjoy Nobu culinary favourites, slick indoor pool and skyline-facing rooftop terrace. See More
  
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- Thompson Chicago Chicago (Near North Side) 247 rooms from $280
  
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  Lively  -  Salone Nico is a favourite of Chicago bussiness types on an evening.
  Sights nearby  -  Buckingham Fountain is a must see, as well as 'The Bean'.
  Great walks  -  Grant Park and Lincoln Park are both worth a visit.
  Views  -  Either of Lake Michigan or the Chicago skyline.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet
  
  Among the Chicago Mansions, this lively and trendy hotel offers prime location for Magnificent Mile and lakeside views. Contemporary rooms with noteworthy comfortable beds and waterfall showers, offering room service as well as Nico Osteria restaurant for fine Italian cuisine and wines. See More
  
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- Viceroy Chicago Chicago (Near North Side) 180 rooms from $214
  
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  City Style  -  A historic 1920's facade married to a glorious waved glass tower, with interiors by TAL Studio- the result will not disappoint
  Sights nearby  -  Just down the road is the Oak Street Beach, a sandy shore of Lake Michigan where one can swim and lounge in the sun
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A magnificent hybrid of old and new, a perfectly preserved 1920's facade attached to a glistening glass tower. Inside you will find the same paradoxes, the rooms are spectacular and so are the views from their floor to ceiling windows. The rooftop bar draws a crowd, as does The Somerset downstairs. See More
  
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