The 10 Best Hotels in Chicago
Architecture lovers flock to Chicago to admire its beautiful buildings — and the city’s hotels are some of the finest examples. The St. Jane, voted by our readers as the 6th best hotel in Chicago, is housed within an Art Deco skyscraper called the Carbide & Carbon Building. Then there’s the Langham at No. 3, situated inside an International Style tower designed by renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.
Related: The World's Best Awards 2019
This year’s lineup of top Chicago hotels consists of sleek and chic accommodations. Contemporary elegance abounds at the Thompson, where an oversize arched window in the hotel’s Froines Room overlooks the Gold Coast neighborhood. At the newly opened Hotel Zachary, a boutique property in Wrigleyville, modern-vintage is the vibe. “Being right next to the ballpark brings an energy that is unparalleled — game day or not,” one reader said.
No. 9, the Gwen, is another stunner. Its circa 1928 Art Deco façade was sculpted by artist Gwen Lux, whom the hotel was named for. The Art Deco glamour continues inside with blocky bronze accents and geometric details in the lobby.
Ahead, read about the No. 1 hotel in Chicago — a first-time winner — and the full list of properties.
10. Thompson Chicago
Score: 90.33
More information: thompsonhotels.com
9. The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel
Score: 90.73
More information: thegwenchicago.com
8. The Ritz-Carlton Chicago
Score: 91.03
More information: ritzcarlton.com
7. Virgin Hotels Chicago
Score: 91.70
More information: virginhotels.com/chicago
6. St. Jane Hotel
Score: 92.00
More information: stjanehotel.com
5. Hotel Julian
Score: 93.33
More information: www.hoteljulianchicago.com
4. The Peninsula Chicago
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 93.35
More information: peninsula.com
3. The Langham, Chicago
Score: 93.87
More information: langhamhotels.com
2. Hotel Zachary
Score: 94.13
More information: hotelzachary.com
1. Viceroy Chicago
Score: 94.86
More information: viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
“Take incredible design in a great location and pair it with an outstanding food and beverage operator and it was our dream,” one respondent said of the Viceroy’s first Chicago property, which opened in the fall of 2017. “The hotel is approachable and fun. A must-stay.” Located on the site of the former historic 1920s-era Cedar Hotel, the Viceroy’s design also incorporates a modern, glassy tower into the original building, appealing to both old- and new-school travelers. Moreover, it’s well-located in the city’s Gold Coast neighborhood, offering proximity to scores of bars and restaurants. Best of all? There’s deep-dish institution Lou Malnati’s next door to the place. A prime spot, indeed.
See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2019.