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November 21, 2025Chicago – The Windy City
Chicago is one of those destinations that never gets old. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a foodie adventure, the city has it all—world-class museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, the Shedd Aquarium, the Navy Pier, shopping on the Magnificent Mile, and of course, cheering on Da Bears or the Cubs. You could spend weeks in the Windy City and still not experience everything.
But one of the most important questions when planning your trip is this: where should you stay in Chicago? If you’re looking for the ultimate combination of luxury, comfort, and service, there’s only one answer.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago
Where NOT to Stay: Anywhere that isn’t The Ritz-Carlton.
This isn’t just another Chicago hotel review—it’s a love letter to the Ritz-Carlton. Simply put, the Ritz-Carlton Chicago is in a league of its own. There’s a reason it tops so many lists of the best luxury hotels in Chicago. The service, the accommodations, the food, and even the little details all come together to create that unmistakable “Ritz-Carlton difference.”
While the Four Seasons Chicago is another well-known option for luxury travelers, I always find myself drawn back to the Ritz. It has a certain magic that makes every visit feel special.
Pro tip: If you’re a member of the American Dental Association, you can access HUGE hotel discounts at the Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, and a handful of other top Chicago hotels. It’s one of the best-kept secrets for affordable luxury in the city. (If anyone knows whether the AMA offers similar perks—please let me know!)
Ritz-Carlton Chicago Accommodations:
★★★★★
From the moment the doorman greets you, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. Service at the Ritz-Carlton is always warm, personalized, and flawlessly attentive—something that makes this property one of the best 5-star hotels in Chicago.
Rooms are spacious and elegant, many with stunning views of Lake Michigan or the Chicago skyline. Standard rooms are lovely, but the suites are truly what set this hotel apart—perfect for couples looking for extra space or families needing room to spread out.
- Executive Suite: One bedroom, one bathroom, and a sitting room with a pullout sofa. Ideal for couples but less convenient for families since the bathroom is accessed through the bedroom.
- Water Tower Suite: Our go-to choice. Perfect for a family of four, with one bedroom, a pullout sofa, two bathrooms, and even a coffee station. We’ve stayed here multiple times and it never disappoints.
- Lakeside Suite: The crown jewel. With two bathrooms, a dining room, and an expansive living area, this suite is like having your own luxury apartment in the heart of downtown Chicago. If you’re looking for the best luxury suite in Chicago, this is it.
Other suites and club-level options are available too (though ADA discounts don’t apply). Still, knowing the Ritz-Carlton brand, they’re bound to be spectacular.
Ritz-Carlton Chicago Dining & Bars:
★★★★★
When it comes to hotel dining in Chicago, the Ritz-Carlton delivers with style.
- Breakfast: For a grab-and-go option, head to The Café for excellent coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. For something more indulgent, Torali serves hearty breakfasts, fresh smoothies, and warm, attentive service. Families will love the extra touch of the toy wagon—a highlight for kids, who get to pick out a toy to play with and keep.
- Torali Bar: One of my favorite hotel bars anywhere in the world. Seasonal cocktails, chic décor, and impeccable service set the tone, while the cocktail snack mix is a surprisingly addictive treat. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace on the 12th floor—perfect for sipping a drink with gorgeous views of the Chicago skyline.
Ritz-Carlton Chicago Spa:
★★★★☆
The spa at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago is a wonderful retreat in the heart of the city. Treatments are consistently top-notch, and the therapists are some of the best I’ve experienced. The relaxation lounge and thoughtful little snacks make it easy to unwind.
The only downside? Limited amenities. Unlike larger destination spas, there’s no steam room or hot tub—just a small sauna and the hotel pool. If you’re comparing it to spa resorts like Kohler Waters Spa or The Sanctuary on Kiawah Island, it feels smaller in scale. That said, the quality of the treatments more than makes up for it. If you’re seeking a luxury hotel spa in Chicago, this one is absolutely worth booking.
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Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering where to stay in Chicago for luxury, comfort, and service, the answer is simple: the Ritz-Carlton. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or even solo, this hotel delivers every single time. The service is flawless, the rooms are exquisite, and the dining and spa experiences are exceptional.
We’ve stayed in Chicago many times, and I can confidently say: The Ritz-Carlton is the only hotel we’ll ever book in the Windy City.
