The Ritz-Carlton Chicago

Located inside Water Tower Place, The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago is a great place to stay whether you’re in the city on business or for pleasure. Located on the upper floors, the property is mere steps from both luxury shopping and dining. You’ll find that, while the streets surrounding the property are nearly always full and crowded, the hotel is a quiet and peaceful respite from the city’s energy.

The luxury venue has plenty of rooms and suites to choose from, with both views of Lake Michigan and the city. I personally prefer the lake-view rooms, as you can find city views in quite a few Chicago hotels, but a really good view of the water is slightly harder to come by. The guestroom décor is standard for luxury hotels, and what you’d find in most of the traditional, high-end hospitality brand names up and down Michigan Avenue — lots of beige and white, with marble bathroom finishings. The suites, of course, are much more luxurious than the normal guestrooms, but the décor remains the same for the most part. The refrigerated private bars are well stocked and the twice-daily housekeeping service is much appreciated, as someone who hates a messy hotel room. The complimentary WiFi is, of course, what I expect from a luxury and well-known brand like Ritz-Carlton.

When you want to grab a bite to eat from the confines of your hotel, the deca RESTAURANT + BAR continues the same classic luxury hospitality look you find in the guestrooms, but the food is top-notch. The dec ROOFTOP LOUNGE + BAR is more fun and casual, with a great outdoor atmosphere for warm, summer nights in Chicago.