The Windy City, the White City, Chi-Town – Chicago on the southern banks of Lake Michigan will blow your mind. With amazing festivals, excellent cuisine, and glass-and-steel skyscrapers, Chicago is a favorite with foodies and culture and architecture buffs. While it might not be obvious, but Chicago also makes for one romantic destination. In fact, there are so many romantic things that you and your partner can enjoy in the city. You can stroll in Millennium Park or bike along the lakefront. Moreover, you can even enjoy a cozy, romantic date night at one of the city’s fabulous cocktail bars or restaurants. That said, nothing spells “romantic” more than staying at one of the most romantic hotels in Chicago, Illinois. These romantic hotels in Chicago, Il offer a slew of relaxing amenities that are perfect for enjoying a romantic romp in the city.
Right from sleek, high-end suites to intimate and cozy boutique hotels, you have no dearth of choices when it comes to the perfect Windy City hotel for your romantic sojourn. So, rekindle the romance by staying at the 11 most romantic hotels in Chicago, Illinois.
Where to Stay in Chicago?
Chicago is easily one of the coolest cities in the United States. It’s home to some Top Attractions in USA For Tourists. It’s also one of the Top 10 Cities With Most Skyscrapers. If you and your partner are intrepid enough, you might just want to step onto the Sky Deck of Chicago’s Willis Tower, one of The 10 Most Thrilling Skywalks Around The World. Chicago’s many, many neighborhoods are equally thrilling. So, if you’re visiting the city, where would you stay?
To begin with, we have iconic Downtown Chicago, which is colloquially known as The Loop. It has the city’s tallest structures, art museums, theaters, and green spaces. Next up is Hyde Park, the historic center of the city and home to Prarie and Victorian architecture. Besides budget street food, it also has bookstores and amazing museums. The quaint and charming Lincoln Park is perfect for culture lovers with lots of parks, museums, and more. The South Loop, on the other hand, has most of Chicago’s landmarks, including the Prarie Avenue. It was once home to 75 of the world’s richest men, and the remaining residences are protected landmarks today.
The River North area of the city has the largest number of art galleries in the country outside Manhattan, New York. The historic and upscale Gold Coast right on Lake Michigan has everything from Michelin-star restaurants to majestic mansions and shopping avenues. West Loop is the birthplace of Chicago’s most-loved landmarks, the Chicago-style hot dog, the deep-dish pizza, and the blues! Foodies and music lovers will particularly love this neighborhood. We’ve saved the best for last – the aptly-named Magnificent Mile. Mag Mile, as it’s called, is the elite commercial and shopping district, with access to Downtown, Gold Coast, and the Loop.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
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Sexy is the name of the romantic game at the Virgin Hotel in Chicago, Il. Located in a historic Art-Deco structure in the Loop, the place is as stylish and cheeky as it can get. In fact, the name of the hotel is the exact opposite of what it suggests! The best part? It’s also one of the Top 11 Gay-Friendly Hotels in Chicago! So, if you’re looking for steamy romance in the city, Virgin Hotels is the best destination you could ever ask for.
The 1920s-built structure has all sorts of fauna peeking out of its elaborate façade. On the inside, the property harks back to the era of glam. Think carpeted elevators and music wafting through the common areas. Besides asking the friendly staff about the city, you can even consult the Virgin app. Apart from recommending local favorites, it also acts as a one-touch control system when you’re in the room. What’s more, there are even complimentary cocktails during the hotel’s social hour. Flag off a romantic evening by sipping on cocktails at the rooftop lounge while watching the sunset over the Windy City.
The rooms or “chambers” are easily the sexiest part of the hotel, and are rather unique. The “Dressing Room” which is vanity/bathroom is actually how you enter to get to the “Sleeping Lounge.” Besides high-tech mod-cons, the standout is the antique-looking minibar that has a Lovers’ Intimacy Kit!
The Palmer House Hilton
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Whip up your own tale of romance at the historic Palmer House Hilton. This living piece of Chicago history also happens to be one of its most romantic hotels. Nearly taking up an entire city block, the hotel is one of the oldest continually operating and last of the grand hotels in America. the fact that it sits right in the heart of the Loop only magnifies its elegance and radiance.
The hotel is steeped in history. It was originally owned by the eponymous Potter Palmer, who was one of the earliest developers of Chicago. The Palmer House literally rose like a phoenix from the ashes after it fell victim to the 1871 Great Chicago Fire – and thank god it did. For, this place has been home to many “firsts,” including being the first hotel in Chicago to have electric lighting, elevator, and even a phone. The opulent lobby is perhaps its best facet, with gold Tiffany chandeliers and fresco ceilings. While in a hotel with a rooftop pool in Chicago, spark off your romance with a dip in the heavenly swimming pool, before heading to the indulgent spa. The 8,000-square-feet-huge oasis is bursting with a list of treatments, wellness therapies, and more, and will put you both in the perfect romantic mood. Plus, with two restaurants and room service, you really do not have to leave the room for anything.
It makes sense to level up to the Executive-level rooms that include access to a lounge with breakfast and hors d’oeuvres. That said, all rooms have plush, sleep-inducing beds with a slew of mod-cons.
Villa D’Citta
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Nothing says romance better than a Tuscan-style villa from the late 1900s. The Villa D’Citta sits in a grey-stone structure that was once home to Chicago’s elite. Today, the lovely B&B in the leafy boulevards of Lincoln Park is one of the most romantic hotels in Chicago, Illinois. It has the additional draw of having top-notch comforts in a trendy residential neighborhood.
A cozy lobby-cum-common area with silk couches and mahogany columns and floors sets the tone for your stay. The hand-carved banisters lend a regal, exclusive touch. Step into the grotto at the back, and you’ll be transported to medieval Italy. Just like in a B&B, the place serves a continental spread for breakfast plus a hot entree every day. A shared kitchen with hot cookies, make-your-own sandwiches, and fruits takes care of any midnight cravings. This is especially helpful when you need to stack up on energy reserves (wink wink). Rounding up the amenities is a secluded sun deck with a jacuzzi.
Rooms at the villa are innately snuggle-worthy. Shades of ivory and brown are standard, but the floor-to-ceiling marble bathrooms have showers large enough for two. What’s more, some rooms even have balconies, while others have fireplaces. Plus, the suites have tubs. All-in-all, it makes for the perfect dreamy retreat.
The Peninsula Chicago
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If you’re looking to splash out for luxurious digs in Downtown Chicago, then look no further than The Peninsula. With marble interiors, gilded art, and classic music wafting through the place, the five-star hotel is certainly one of the most indulgent romantic hotels in Chicago. This is especially true if you go for the VIP “Keys to the City” program, which has perks like priority passes to top sights and even a special shopping session on Saks Fifth Avenue!
Romance and luxury go hand-in-hand in the rooms at the Peninsula, which are some of the most spacious retreats in the city. Trust us, you both will love trying out both the king-size bed and the deep soaking tub in the lavish bathroom. Plus, they’re chock-full of every amenity you can imagine, including a one-touch control system and immensely soft sheets. Chocolates and champagne await you guys in the minibar. Additionally, the soaking tubs in the mirror-marble bathrooms face small TVs. Trust us when we say that you might never want to leave.
If you do leave the room, head straight to the spa with hot stone therapy treatments, couples massages, and what-not. Lounge around or enjoy a swim on the striking 19th-floor indoor pool before grabbing drinks and dinner at the rooftop Z Bar. Don’t forget to attend the highly-recommended afternoon tea in the lobby or the weekend Sunday brunch.
The Publishing House B&B
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In Chicago, Illinois, it doesn’t get any more romantic than at The Publishing House B&B, a hotel designed for cozy escapades. The B&B feels more like a boutique hotel, thanks to its spacious urban loft aesthetic. Located in West Loop, it’s the ideal base if your romantic sojourn involves drinking and dining at the city’s top restaurants and bars. Plus, for those looking for luxury sans the ostentatiousness that comes with larger hotels, the Publishing House is next to utopia.
Vibrant splashes of art, midcentury-modern furnishings, and high ceilings dominate the super-stylish 11-room property. It sits in a century-old brick structure that’s been holography museum, casket factory, and a publishing house, hence the name. If you’re wine connoisseurs, then you’ll love the utterly gorgeous wine bar in the basement. Apart from serving wines from around the world, it even offers shareable plates, spreads, snacks, and meat and cheese boards. The cozy third-floor living room with barstools, chairs, and couches is a perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee on a windy afternoon. Moreover, complimentary coffee, sodas, and freshly-baked treats are available all day. Do not miss the ever-changing breakfast that includes everything from juices and fresh fruit to poached eggs and more.
Rooms are named after famous writers and range from petite to sprawling sizes. What’s more, all rooms have a midcentury-modern vibe with large windows, exposed brick walls, bold hues. Given that the beds are incredibly comfortable, there’s a good chance that you guys might not want to leave the comfort this one of the 11 Best Hotels In Chicago has to offer.
The Gwen
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If you and your partner intend to go on a serious shopping spree, then there’s no better place to stay than The Gwen. Not only is it a stone’s throw from Michigan Avenue, but it’s also connected to The Shops at North Bridge via an indoor bridge. What’s more, the Navy Pier is a 20-minute walk, while the Loop is half of that. Sitting right on the Magnificent Mile, this romantic hotel in Chicago is the perfect place to put your feet up after a shopping spree together.
The hotel’s striking design invokes the charisma of Chicago in the 1930s. It lies in the Art-Deco landmark that was the McGraw-Hill Building earlier, with additional sculptural reliefs. The property radiates a dramatic feminine mystique with its striking lobby art, theatric lighting, and brassy fixtures. Besides tea and coffee in the morning, the hotel even offers calming apple-cranberry cider throughout the day. If you both are into fitness, the state-of-the-art fitness center even allows you to stream Netflix as you work out. Besides delicious creative dishes, the Upstairs restaurant serves a stellar breakfast and some rare local beers.
Rooms at the hotel channel the same industrial-chic flair with jewel hues, geometric shapes, and brassy fixtures. For a healthy dose of romance, book the king rooms or suites that have playful wallpaper, granite-marble bathrooms, and deep-soaking tubs. Perks include floor-to-ceiling views of Chicago and Lake Michigan too. The best part is that you can even get in-room spa services without having to lose the mood by leaving the room.
Park Hyatt Chicago
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Look down on Chicago, Il from one of its most uniquely romantic perches, the Park Hyatt Hotel. The sleek hotel hits the sweet spot between contemporary luxury and minimalist restraint with aplomb, setting the gold standard for Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood.
A stark yet cool façade with a column of glass and limestone sets the tone for elegant interiors that are as good as an art gallery. And, rightfully so, for the black-and-white photographs and ceramic sculptures peppered throughout have been chosen by MoMA’s associate curator. Equally exclusive is the fossil and gemstone collection that gleam on the polished bookshelves of the hushed library. Begin your romantic evening at the garden terrace of the NoMi Lounge with cocktails and sushi. Finally, proceed to the decadent NoMi spa, where signature treatments like lake-stone massages and a dip in the indoor lap pool will get you adequately in the mood.
The rooms are the zenith of understated luxury and indulgence. Think playful room service menus and bath butlers that can set up the perfect romantic scene. Deep, cushy window seats right next to full-length windows make for the perfect perch to check out Chicago’s skyline. The best part is undoubtedly the massive marble soaking tubs in supersized bathrooms sitting right next to similar full-length windows with stunning views. If you’ve got deep pockets, we’d recommend the Veneta designer suite.
The Blackstone Hotel
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If you’re into history and old-world elegance, then the 1910-built Blackstone Hotel is sure to enamor you and your significant other. Swathes of marble combined with striking views of Lake Michigan make it one of the best old-world romantic hotels in Chicago, Il.
There’s nothing about the hotel that you won’t like, whether it’s the crystal chandeliers, marble floors, or the bronze lift indicators. Accents like white chairs and splashy rugs are the 21st-century additions to the space. You’ll particularly love the cards with trivia of the hotel’s most famous guests scattered throughout – they include the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Al Capone, among others. In addition, it has a splendid collection of over 1,600 contemporary pieces of art, enough to fill a gallery! Don’t miss eating a meal at Mercat a la Planxa, a Spanish restaurant that’s an absolute favorite with locals. Wind up your day by enjoying a nightcap from the Mad Men era at the 60s-themed bar in the lobby.
Rooms are minimalistic, with the decor paying tribute to Blackstone’s historic roots. This includes fish-eye mirrors, hanging light fixtures, and shimmery headboards, which also lend the place a sensuous vibe. You guys will love lounging in the spacious marble bathrooms or enjoying a cup of coffee at the sitting area. For the ultimate experience, book the east-facing rooms that have marvelous views of Lake Michigan.
Chicago Athletic Association
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It’s not difficult to be seduced by the Chicago Athletic Association, which is one of the most romantic hotels in Chicago, Illinois. Once home to a private club, the now late-19th-century Venetian Gothic tower is all about ornate pizzaz. We’re talking everything from original mosaic-tiled floors and 19th-century wood fireplaces to stained-glass windows and vintage chandeliers. The fact that it sits right across from Millennium Park in the heart of Downtown is only a plus-point. So, if your romantic getaway involves checking out the Top 10 Things To Do In Chicago together, then this place is perfect.
The hotel exudes a luxurious yet welcoming vibe with marble staircases, huge stone fireplaces, stained-glass windows, and ornately carved woodwork. If you and your partner are into fitness, you can even work out together in the fitness room. What’s more, you can even get hold of the hotel’s complimentary bicycles and explore the neighborhood on your own, just the two of you. If you both love playing games, then billiards, bocce, and shuffleboard await you in the Game Room. Whether you guys are foodies or not, the buzzing rooftop restaurant Cindy’s is perfect for grabbing weekend brunch with stunning views. The same thing goes for the Cherry Room, which means you don’t need to step out for food at all.
Items repurposed from the original club find their way into the vintage-design rooms. Think storage made of gym ladders or nightstands with tennis racquet leg grips. You’ll definitely want to sleep in thanks to the soft, plush beds and enjoy a romantic shower in the Carrara marble bathroom. Cozy up with old books stacked on shelves as you enjoy the room service.
Fairmont Chicago
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The towering Fairmont Chicago, Il is one of the most romantic hotels in the city with the best postcard-worthy views of Grant Park and Lake Michigan. The 37-floor luxury hotel lies just east of the Loop boasts a touch of contemporary grandeur and is a hop, skip and jump from Chicago’s cultural jewels. So, if you want to explore the city and come back to chocolates and champagne waiting for you guys, then this would be it.
When you walk into the lobby, you feel pretty much like Cinderella – there’s rich lighting, expensive marble, and even a splendid staircase. Two matching in-floor and wall light installations around the check-in desk immediately catch your attention. The place flows into a sunken bar area ensconced by a metal twig-like sculpture. It’s an excellent place to sip on cocktails and get the mood going post-evening. Indulging in a couple’s massage at the sumptuous spa is also an excellent way to get things started. We’d suggest upgrading to the “Gold Package” that includes access to a lounge. It serves everything from sumptuous breakfast buffets and afternoon snacks to evening hors d’oeuvres and canapes and even dessert. Besides, the hotel even sets up romantic picnic menus which you can enjoy in the adjoining Millennium Park.
All rooms at the Fairmont are spacious and feature marble bathrooms with equally massive bathtubs and spacious rain showers, both of which can accommodate two. The color scheme is sexy, with earthy hues complemented by jewel-toned accents. For the pinnacle of romance, book the couple’s suite that has an infinity tub with soothing jets.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
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The 60-story gilded stunner that is the Waldorf Astoria is, without doubt, one of the posh and luxurious romantic hotels in Chicago, Il. And it’s no surprise why. The hotel was modeled after a grand Parisian dame and lies in the ritzy and equally glamorous Gold Coast neighborhood. The hotel’s location itself is a rarity in a neighborhood where space is at a premium. It lies in a cobblestone courtyard, complete with a flower-surrounded fountain.
Pull up on the brick-paved driveway and enter a lobby as opulent as it gets. Think 1920s glamor of crystal chandeliers, decorative statues, and marble galore. It’s nothing short of entering an art museum, hushed and exclusive. As you check-in, you guys are assigned a concierge who’ll take care of any request you might have, right from bathrobes to champagne. After checking-in, head straight to the spa to kick off your romantic caper. If you’re feeling peckish, the Margeaux Brasserie restaurant serves world-class French fare and even delivers it to the comfort of your room. If there’s a romantic restaurant in the neighborhood that you’ve been dying to try out, a Mercedes-Benz will drive you both down there!
The enormous rooms and suites are even more glamorous with pops of gold and platinum against shades of grey. Romance abounds in the form of huge soaking tubs (for two) and black-granite fireplaces.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars / Food Tours in Chicago:
- Chicago Style Food Tour: If you and your partner are foodies, then you shouldn’t miss this delectable food tour.
- Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf: This favorite restaurant is perfect for a romantic meal, thanks to its sensuous speakeasy mood. Right from classic cocktails to lip-smacking sides, this restaurant has it all.
Recommended Activities In Chicago:
- Chicago 1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Cruise: Get romantic in the Windy City by watching the sunset on this lovely cruise.
- Chicago Millennium Park Walking Tour With Photoshoot: There’s no better way to capture your romantic memories than gorgeous backdrops and a personal photographer. Stroll down Millennium Park and have romantic pictures clicked by a photographer.
