Best Pool Hotels in Chicago

With Lake Michigan as its backdrop, the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago combines Chicago's iconic views and its chic, urban design. Previous guests are blown away by the look of this relatively young hotel, describing the building's design as interesting and innovative. Within walking distance of Millennium Park and The Magnificent Mile, this Radisson – which falls within the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group brand – serves as an excellent home base for city exploration without appearing too tourist-focused. Recent guests say the Radisson Blu Aqua maintains a boutique hotel feel without sacrificing the high customer service standards hallmark to the brand. The stylishly designed rooms feature flat-screen TVs, single-service coffee makers and free Wi-Fi – an amenity for which previous guests are thankful. And though this property puts you near a variety of neighborhood eateries, visitors recommend the on-site Filini restaurant and bar for Italian cuisine and a lively atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy a wealth of rooftop amenities, from the lap pool and hot tub to the fire pit and deck chairs from which to take in Chicago's skyline. When the chilly Chicago weather comes, guests can make use of the indoor two-lane lap pool. Additionally, Club Carlson rewards program members can use their points here for free nights and upgrades.

Occupying prime real estate on Chicago's coveted Magnificent Mile, The Peninsula Chicago combines Hong Kong's cosmopolitan flair with the Windy City's Midwestern charm. Travelers describe the guest rooms as comfortable thanks to their creamy color palette and plush furniture, not to mention their modern techie touches, like a bedside remote command station that controls the lights, television and room temperatures. Meanwhile, the renowned Peninsula Spa is in a class by itself: earning The Peninsula Chicago many accolades from health and leisure magazines. Another honorable mention goes to the afternoon tea served in the lobby bar, which visitors say is a nice and welcome touch. During your stay, guests recommend making time for the tasty Cantonese dishes served in the Shanghai Terrace restaurant. However, for many travelers, it was The Peninsula Chicago's friendly service staff that convinced them to stay here again.

Previous lodgers rave about this North Michigan Avenue hotel's refinement and unbeatable location. Sitting just steps from Chicago's Magnificent Mile, the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is central to all of the city's best restaurants, shops and nightlife. After you've sufficiently tested the limits of your credit card, retreat to one of the hotel's soundproofed spa treatment rooms to enjoy a relaxing massage or skin renewal treatment. Before you call it a night, previous guests highly recommend sitting down to dinner in the Allium's dining room, where diners are treated to fresh, farm-to-table Midwest cuisine. When it's time to bed down, this Four Seasons hotel's well-appointed accommodations provide a comfortable escape. Previous guests love the elegant decor, which combines contemporary fittings (like flat-screen TVs and iHome stereos) with 20th century-inspired design accents and spacious marble bathrooms. Recent visitors recommend splurging on the lake view accomodations, rather than the rooms with the city skyline vistas.

This fashionable hotel on East Walton gathers acclaim from recent guests for its elegant design and prime location in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood. According to many travelers, you can't go wrong with a stay here – in large part because of the hotel's exceptional customer service. The Waldorf Astoria Chicago also wins favor from vacationing couples with unexpected amenities like in-room fireplaces, bathrooms with separate showers and tubs and double vanities with inset LCD TVs. For a quick bite to eat, the property has a pastry shop and the French-inspired Margeaux Brasserie. But if you're hankering for something more substantial than cafe fare, recent guests recommend exploring the Gold Coast's acclaimed restaurants and bars that are all within reach. And when you need a break from the Windy City's hustle and bustle, relax with a massage, a quick workout or a dip in the indoor pool at the hotel's Spa & Health Club. Because of its ties to the Waldorf Astoria brand, this hotel allows members of the Hilton Honors rewards program to accrue or redeem points.

The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago is recognized by guests as one of the city's best luxury hotels for families. Children are not only supplied with child-sized bathrobes and complimentary toiletries, but can also take part in select treatments at the spa alongside their parents. Additionally, families can take a dip in the indoor pool or take advantage of the hotel's primo location along The Magnificent Mile. Other amenities include the tasty Torali restaurant, a 24-hour fitness center and wellness classes like rooftop yoga and Pilates. Guest rooms at The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago boast shades of cream, blue and gray and amenities like flat-screen TVs, luxury bedding and marble bathrooms. Previous visitors recommend a room on a higher floor so you can get more enjoyment from the large picture windows. Keep in mind that members of the Marriott Bonvoy program can earn and redeem points by choosing to stay here.

If you're hoping to be within walking distance to some of the Windy City's top attractions, this newer Loews outpost should be at the top of your list, according to recent travelers. Opened in early 2015, the Loews Chicago Hotel has already wowed guests with its attentive service and enviable location just outside the Loop (less than a mile from Navy Pier), and its cool, contemporary decor. Past guests particularly loved the rooms, especially the comfy beds and spacious bathrooms. Accommodations are also equipped with Keurig coffee makers, flat-screen TVs, floor-to-ceiling windows and free Wi-Fi access. The other star of the show here: Streeterville Social, which bills itself as the city's largest outdoor rooftop terrace. When you're not admiring the skyline views or sipping on cocktails, sample some of the "refined street food" from the rooftop kitchen or challenge your fellow travelers to Jenga (the lounge boasts a custom giant set). For heartier fare, make reservations at Rural Society, the on-site Argentinean steakhouse helmed by "Iron Chef" Jose Garces. Other amenities that stood out to recent guests: the fitness center (and its 75-foot-long indoor lap pool), the spa and the Audi car service, which drops guests anywhere within a 3-mile radius of the hotel. Plus, if you're a member of the Loews YouFirst program, you can earn and redeem free perks by staying here.

One of the Omni Chicago Hotel's main selling points is its location: Smack dab in the middle of The Magnificent Mile, it's surrounded by some of the city's best restaurants and things to do. According to recent visitors, the hotel itself isn't too shabby, either. This Omni property houses 347 guest suites with fully stocked refreshment centers, two flat-screen TVs, wet bars and minifridges (on request). The spacious floor plans and sleeper sofas can make this Chicago hotel a good choice for families and other large groups. But some guests are wary of all the incidental charges, like $67 a day for valet parking and about $10 a day for Internet access in your room. Still, a stay here offers benefits like access to an indoor swimming pool, a rooftop sun deck and a fitness center. Meanwhile, the Omni Chicago caters to its various clientele with amenities like a 24-hour business center and the complimentary Omni Kids Crew program. The property also features the 676 Restaurant & Bar, which serves fresh Midwest American cuisine. But for most guests, the best part about this hotel is its affordable price tag, which is made even sweeter for members of the Omni Select Guest rewards program.

It took a $396 million renovation to restore this JW Marriott (a gorgeous former bank building) to its former architectural glory. And according to recent guests, it was money well spent. Situated just a block from the Chicago Board of Trade at the heart of the Loop, the JW Marriott Chicago impresses business travelers with its central location and leisure travelers with its well-equipped fitness center and 20,000-square-foot spa, Spa at JW Chicago. Meanwhile, everyone seems to agree that the guest rooms look great: Guests rave about the oversized bathrooms and modern in-room amenities like iPhone docks and flat-screen TVs. When they aren’t enjoying their accommodations, many visitors flock to the hotel bar and gourmet Italian eatery, The Florentine. But the real highlight of a stay here, according to many travelers, is the hotel's quality customer service. Although you shouldn't expect to be waited on hand and foot, visitors say that the JW Marriott Chicago's staff works hard to ensure a comfortable stay. What's more, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn or redeem points by choosing to bed down here.

Part hotel, part members club, the Soho House Chicago offers a unique experience for travelers. Decorated in a retro, hip style, the hotel and club offers a host of amenities that include a rooftop pool, an expansive 17,000-square-foot gym, a 30-seat cinema room, the Cowshed spa and a music room with monthly events. After working up an appetite, guests can choose from two members-only establishments or three open-to-the-public eateries that serve everything from pizza to free-range chicken. Guests compliment all the common spaces, saying they are beautifully decorated and always buzzing with activity. When it's time to bed down, guests can choose from rooms ranging from small, spanning 200 to 300 square feet, to large rooms, which measure 600 square feet. No matter which size you choose, accommodations come with king-sized beds, Egyptian cotton sheets and walk-in rainforest showers. Decorative touches like concrete ceilings, ornate rugs and wood flooring add to the chic aesthetic of the hotel and club. Guests and locals alike praise the Soho House Chicago for offering laid-back luxury, but for others, the constant activity wasn't relaxing enough. You'll find the Soho House located three blocks southeast of Morgan Station in the trendy West Loop neighborhood. 

Situated on the banks of the Chicago River and less than a mile from the shopping on The Magnificent Mile, The Langham, Chicago is a hit with recent travelers. Opened in 2013, the hotel impresses guests with its attentive service, quiet location and riverfront views. Occupying the first 13 floors of a 52-story landmark skyscraper, The Langham, Chicago boasts 316 guest rooms and suites. Accommodations are outfitted with soaking tubs and rain showers, 55-inch LCD TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Past lodgers compliment the comfy beds and relaxing bathrooms and recommend booking a room with a river view to make the most of the hotel's location. When you're not relaxing in your room, you'll find plenty of other amenities at your fingertips. In addition to the Chuan Spa, the hotel also touts a health club and 67-foot-long indoor pool. Though many of downtown Chicago's top restaurants are within reach, previous visitors suggest giving the on-site restaurant, Travelle Kitchen + Bar, a try. As is the case throughout the property, guests say the service staff members at the restaurant are both attentive and friendly.

The Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago is conveniently positioned on North Wabash Avenue in the Near North Side neighborhood of Chicago, offering easy access to both the business-centric Loop and the city's top attractions, including Navy Pier. From many of the minimalist-design rooms, you'll get a picturesque view of the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower, all brightly reflected in Lake Michigan. Accommodations here also include floor-to-ceiling windows, fully equipped kitchens (with Nespresso machines) and bathrooms with limestone finishes. Recent guests recommend booking a room with a river view to take full advantage of the hotel's enviable location. Cap off a Windy City day at Terrace 16, the hotel's on-site restaurant and bar. Guests praise the restaurant for its  American cuisine and unbeatable views of the iconic Chicago skyline. Or should you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, plan on spending some time at The Spa at Trump, which offers a wide array of services, as well as a fitness center and an indoor pool.

Travelers commend the Park Hyatt Chicago's attentive and responsive staff, along with its enviable seat along The Magnificent Mile. But there's more to this hotel than its convenient location. After indulging in some retail therapy, rest up in the NoMI Spa, where you can soak up the warm aroma of massage oils while your muscles are soothed. Or retreat to your spacious digs, which include oversized baths, modern decor and views of the Chicago cityscape or Lake Michigan. Guest rooms here also come with standard amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars and complimentary Wi-Fi access. And though the hotel is surrounded by some of the city's top eateries, recent guests recommend sitting down to dinner at hotel's NoMI Kitchen, which serves up contemporary American cuisine alongside Chi-Town views. And because this property bears the Hyatt name, World of Hyatt members can earn or cash in points here for additional stay benefits.

Two blocks west of The Magnificent Mile and four blocks north of the Loop, the Kimpton Palomar Chicago is a convenient lodging choice for sightseers. This Kimpton hotel offers easy access to some of the Windy City's most popular attractions. But there's more to this hotel than its location. Previous guests praise the rooms, describing them as spacious and comfortable with floor-to-ceiling windows, a number of varied pillow styles, Frette linens and artwork inspired by the Chicago World's Fair. Although you'll be surrounded by the numerous eateries of Chicago's Near North area, some guests recommend trying the New American cuisine served at the trendy Sable Kitchen & Bar. Recent travelers also loved the wealth of freebies provided in the lobby, including complimentary coffee in the morning and wine tastings in the evening. And the service staff – from the concierge to the housekeeping employees – earns high marks as well. Members of the IHG Rewards Club can earn benefits, like complimentary Wi-Fi, by choosing to stay here.

The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile still has touches of its historic 1929 incarnation as the Medinah Athletic Club. The original hand-stenciled ceilings and tapestries continue to adorn the lobby, while rooms in the Historic Tower have Old World features like vintage patterns and gold accents. And though much of the original athletic club's facilities were reconfigured to make way for the hotel's amenities, the junior Olympic swimming pool (in all its vintage opulence) remains. Still, this Chicago hotel has kept up with the times: Guest rooms come equipped with high-speed internet access (for a fee), flat-screen TVs and minibars. In addition to this InterContinental's antique charm, recent visitors also laud the hotel's mid-Magnificent Mile locale and its exceptional staff. The only thing travelers lamented was the fee for in-room Wi-Fi and the pricey charge for on-site parking. The Eno wine bar, however, earns praise from discerning diners for its master sommelier selections, and travelers also appreciate the hearty plates served at Michael Jordan's Steakhouse. The icing on the cake: Members of the IHG Rewards Club loyalty program can earn points by staying here or cash in rewards to help cover the cost of their stay.

If you want to have your cake and eat it too, the Eaglewood Resort & Spa might be a good choice for you. Since it's located in Itasca, about 26 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, the resort is close enough to the city to visit when you want, but far enough away to feel peaceful and serene. Guest rooms here are spacious and come equipped with pillow-top matresses, mahogany furnishings and flat-screen TVs while suites boast private balconies. For stellar views, travelers insist on booking a rooftop suite, which are separate from the resort's main building, adding an extra dose of privacy. If you decide not to head into the Windy City, you'll find plenty to do right here: Eaglewood features a fitness center, an indoor pool, an 18-hole golf course and even an on-site bowling alley. You'll also find a 10,000-square-foot, full-service spa, which earns praise from R&R-seekers for its laundry list of massages and skin treatments. And when mealtime rolls around, Burnham's satisfies a wide variety of cravings with its buffet, while Prairie River Fire Pit and Patio offers a more refined atmosphere. Visitors also rave about the hotel staff at this property. Though recent guests enjoyed the expansiveness of the property, they do concede that it's easy to get lost here.

Travelers are still bowled over by the look and feel of the Hyatt Chicago Magnificent Mile since it emerged from a $25 million renovation in May 2013. Now the hotel's proximity to The Magnificent Mile isn't its only draw: Guest rooms are outfitted in soothing neutral tones – complete with flat-screen TVs, minifridges and free high-speed Internet access — and afford excellent views of central Chi-Town (request a room on a higher floor for even better vistas). Meanwhile, the rest of the hotel is more flashy – the lobby and the common areas boast hardwood and tile floors, and plush furniture offers a homey vibe. Travelers say the welcoming atmosphere is amplified by this Hyatt's friendly customer service staff, while the indoor pool and health club are popular perks of staying here. And though this Chicago property sits alongside some excellent eateries, guests say that the fare and cocktails served in the Level Two restaurant is worth tasting (and the communal ambiance is an ejoyable experience). Plus, as an added bonus, members of the Hyatt Gold Passport rewards program can earn or redeem points by choosing to bed down here.

You'll find The Westin Chicago North Shore about 30 miles northwest of downtown Chicago and roughly 15 miles north of O'Hare International Airport. Although it may not be the most convenient location for sightseeing, this Westin property attracts visitors with its pristine setting, situated in one of Chi-town's affluent neighborhoods and amid the greenery of Potawatomi Woods. Guests also choose this hotel as their home base thanks to the welcoming staff and the proximity to several upscale dining options. Accommodations at The Westin Chicago North shore are fairly standard in terms of appearance and amenities (another draw for fans of the Westin brand), with white and gray hues, LCD TVs, Heavenly beds and high-speed Internet access (for a fee). This hotel also draws working travelers with its full-service business center, ample meeting space, on-site pool and in-house Italian restaurant, Saranello's. Past visitors were also pleased with the abundance of (free) parking available at the property, though they warn it's a bit of a trek from the lot back to the hotel. Because of its ties to the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

Travelers don't have to sacrifice comfort for the convenience of being close to the tarmac at this Westin outpost. Sitting on the fringes of Chicago's massive O'Hare International Airport in Rosemont, Illinois, this hotel is the ideal place to rest before a redeye flight or take a load off during a layover. Guest rooms at this Westin outpost feature creamy color palettes along with cozy Heavenly beds, Westin signature bath amenities, Starbucks coffee and large work desks (plus Internet access, for a fee). The hotel also boasts a fitness center and an indoor pool. The on-site Benchmark GastroPub also receives praise for its health-conscious cuisine. And as for the service staff, recent visitors say that they couldn't be better. However, guests aren't as satisfied with the pricey Internet and parking fees. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

For a couple of reasons, this hotel is the ideal place for business travelers: The Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Chicago O'Hare is quite close to O'Hare International Airport (complimentary shuttle service is provided), and it's adjacent to the Donald E. Stephens Convention and Conference Center. Plus, the hotel features a business center equipped with printers, fax machines and photo copiers. But this DoubleTree outpost has more than business savvy going for it. Whether or not you need to get work done, you can enjoy the property's fitness center, pool and guest rooms, which feature flat-screen TVs, "Sweet Dreams" beds and high-speed Internet access. You'll also find a number of restaurants on-site, including the popular Gibsons Steakhouse and BC Bistro. Recent guests report having a pleasant experience at this Hilton-affiliated hotel. Despite its proximity to the airport, travelers describe this property as surprisingly quiet, and although some report a few customer service snafus, most guests offer their compliments to the hotel staff. If you're a Hilton HHonors member, you can collect or cash in points here.

Fans of the Westin brand will have a few options when it comes to lodging in and around Chicago; this particular hotel is located on the outskirts of the city, about 15 miles west of O'Hare International Airport and a little less than 30 miles northwest of the city center. Although you might save some coin staying here, some recent visitors say that this location offers a few annoyances, such as late night noise from the hotel atrium and a long commute into the Windy City. However, if you're looking for a comfy place to bed down that's close to the airport, this Westin outpost is well-equipped. Rooms are outfitted with the Westin Heavenly beds (and dog beds, upon request), flat-screen TVs and high-speed Internet access (for a fee). The only complaint guests seem to have with this Westin is in regards to the bathrooms: Many visitors said they're rather cramped and outdated. But guests of The Westin Chicago Northwest also have access to the sauna and indoor heated pool. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

Fun fact: This hotel is right by Hamburger University, a Micky D's training facility. But in all seriousness, travelers say the Hyatt Lodge at McDonald's Campus deserves to be on your radar. Located in Oak Brook, Illinois – about 20 miles west of Chicago – this Hyatt hotel is a suitable choice for the business traveler set, but an even better getaway for leisure travelers. Sure, you'll find 47,000 square feet of event space here, but the activities offered at this lodge-style property range from spa treatments to pool lounging to mountain biking (things you won't want to miss out on while you're working). But whatever your reason for staying here, you should find your experience to be enjoyable. Previous guests approve of the guest rooms, which boast Hyatt's Grand beds, marble bathrooms and balconies overlooking the woodland or garden. Travelers also gush over the Hyatt Lodge at McDonald's Campus' picturesque natural landscape and its Frank Lloyd Wright-esque design. Meanwhile, the lodge houses three restaurants, which range from upscale eats to casual cuisine. And by choosing to bed down here, members of the Hyatt Gold Passport program can accrue or redeem points.

The Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel can be found in Northbrook, Illinois, about 25 miles north of downtown Chicago. Although the location may be a deal-breaker for some, many travelers say that its fairly remote address results in a few perks. Some of this Renaissance property's best traits can be attributed to its location, including its peaceful atmosphere and its reasonable rates. As for the experience, most guests can't complain. Visitors describe the guest rooms as comfortable thanks to red and golf accents, flat-screen HDTVs, pillow-top mattresses and luxury linens. Guests are also fond of the hotel's pool and fitness center, while the selection of on-site eateries caters to a wide variety of tastes (which is good, since there aren't many options in the surrounding neighborhood). As for the customer service, a few snafus have been reported, but overall, visitors seem pleased with the efforts made by hotel employees to ensure a quality stay. What's more, members of the Marriott Bonvoy program can collect or redeem points by choosing to bed down here.

Located less than 5 miles east of Chicago's O'Hare International Airport and a 20-minute walk to the nearest "L" train station, the Renaissance Chicago O'Hare Suites Hotel is better suited for those on their way into or out of the city than those looking to do some sightseeing. Overall, travelers describe this Renaissance property as comfortable and convenient, and the extra spacious floor plans cater to those traveling as a group or with kids in tow. Basic suites come with separate sitting areas, flat-screen TVs and minifridges, while the club level suites have complimentary snacks throughout the day. Meanwhile business travelers love how close this Renaissance is to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (it's just 2 miles east). And everyone can agree that the customer service here is on point. But that's not to say that this airport hotel isn't without fault: Some guests complain about the daily fees for in-room Internet service, the lack of a "park and fly" option and the thin room walls that let the sound of door slams in. By choosing to stay here, though, Marriott Bonvoy members can collect or redeem points.

Overlooking Lake Michigan (as you might've guessed from its name), this W hotel offers guests a trendy Chicago home base just minutes from some of the city's top attractions. Popular hotel features include the Bliss Spa on the eighth floor, as well as CURRENT restaurant, which serves seasonal modern Italian cuisine. Meanwhile, the accommodations feature decor with bright pops of color here and there, as well as LCD flat-screen TVs, minifridges, high-speed Internet access and amenities for your pet, should you require them. Guests say they enjoy the W Chicago - Lakeshore's waterfront location, but some found difficulty with an at-times too-cool staff and were disappointed with charges for in-room Wi-Fi. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

If this hotel's title of "North America's longest continually operating hotel" means anything, it's that the Palmer House knows how to keep its guests coming back time and again. Welcoming Chicago visitors since 1873, this iconic downtown mainstay is a favorite among travelers who want to experience a bit of bygone glamour. The Gilded Age lobby – and lobby bar – is opulent, and guests say it exudes Old World charm. The guest rooms, on the other hand, are not as grand. Guests report the lodgings are a little small compared to other Chicago hotels, but they do come equipped with creature comforts like flat-screen TVs, high-speed Internet access (for a fee) and, of course, the Hilton brand's signature Serenity beds. The Palmer House also boasts a fitness center and an indoor pool (an especially popular feature among those who stayed here with kids). When it's time for a meal, you can find a hearty menu of American cuisine at the Lockwood Restaurant. If you're a Hilton Honors member, you can collect or cash in points by staying here.