Fathom Favorites : Chicago Hotels

1. The Godfrey Hotel

The Godfrey Hotel

Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Cubist-influenced facade. Rooms have amenities for the many business travelers passing through, but mid-century details keep it from feeling too corporate. As does the expansive rooftop bar.

127 W. Huron St.
Chicago, IL 60654
+1-312-649-2000

2. Freehand Chicago

Freehand Chicago

An artsy enclave in the gallery-heavy River North neighborhood. The award-winning bar, hotel-grade mattresses, and roster of special events will make you think twice about calling it a hostel.

19 E. Ohio St.
Chicago, IL 60611
+1-312-940-3699

3. Hotel Lincoln

Hotel Lincoln

The historic hotel (once host to legends like Al Capone) makes a laid-back comeback with cozy, if slightly kitschy, interiors reminding guests that we are in the Midwest after all. Local artwork dots the lobby and rooms — pick an east-facing room for Lake Michigan views.

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1816 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60614
+1-312-254-4700

4. The Robey

The Robey

In the bustling Wicker Park neighborhood is the city's newest hotel in the former deco Northwest Tower. Rooms are warm and bright thanks to the triangular architecture of the building. The Hollander, the sister property next door, caters to the social media-minded by connecting guests online before their stay at the hotel.

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2018 W. N. Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
+1-872-315-3050

5. Thompson Chicago

Thompson Chicago

Far enough from the crowded downtown Loop, but near enough to Magnificent Mile shopping and the lake, the modern Gold Coast hotel manages to be equally luxe and accessible. No need to check out early; Nico Osteria has an excellent breakfast menu. And make use of the complimentary luxury car service.

21 E. Bellevue Place
Chicago, IL 60611 
+1-312-266-2100

6. Chicago Athletic Association

Chicago Athletic Association

The Venetian Gothic landmark opposite Millennium Park received a recent Roman and Williams facelift — look out for playful re-imagined vintage furnishings (like a pommel horse-turned-bench), Carrara marble bathrooms, and boxing-style robes. If you ever find yourself in Chicago in winter (why would you do that to yourself?), cozy up in the library by 19th-century fireplaces and end the night with drinks at the historic Cherry Circle Room.

12 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60603
+1-312-940-3552

7. Longman & Eagle

Longman & Eagle

If you don’t want to stay at a big hotel, it doesn’t get cooler than this six-room Logan Square inn, a favorite of musicians and interesting wanderers. The style is vintage and the prices (from $85/night) are unbeatable. The bar pours stiff cocktails and the kitchen turns out incredible, meat-heavy dishes. The vibe is easy, loud, and, on most days, plaid.

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2657 N. Kedzie Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
+1-773-276-7110


8. Sofitel Chicago Water Tower

Sofitel Chicago Water Tower

A hotel that’s equal parts French chic and French sleek, from the striking architecture to the cocktail lounge. The hotel may be big, but the rooms feel like sanctuaries. 


20 E. Chestnut St.
Chicago, IL, 60611
+1-312-324-4000


9. The James

The James

The rooms (standard, lofts, and suites) feel like apartments, with ample room for dining, working, and relaxing, which you can also do on-site at David Burke’s Primehouse, the gym, and the spa. Art is a key feature throughout: The James collaborates with local galleries and museums on the works shown. 

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55 E. Ontario St.
Chicago, IL 60611
+1-888-526-3778

10. The Peninsula Chicago

The Peninsula Chicago

The rooms are massive, as befits a hotel that does everything in grand, yet understated, style. Service is attentive; amenities are cutting-edge. The rooftop spa has an outdoor deck and pool. 

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108 E. Superior St.
Chicago, IL 60611
+1-866-382-8388

11. Kimpton's Hotel Palomar

Kimpton's Hotel Palomar

At the River North boutique hotel, the rooms are stylish and inviting and the bathrooms are oversized. The amenities are top-notch, from bedding and Wi-Fi to the 24-hour fitness center and the gorgeous indoor pool on the 17th floor.

505 N. State St.
Chicago, IL, 60654
+1-312-755-9703 

12. Park Hyatt

Park Hyatt

So much to love. The lake and city views, the Magnificent Mile location, the contemporary art and design throughout, the soaking tubs, the chic NoMI Kitchen, lounge, and garden. 

800 N. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
+1-312-335-1234