Chicago has long been on my travel bucket list; yet as someone who’s racked up plenty of frequent flyer miles, it somehow took 34 years to get there. Thankfully, though, it was worth the wait. With its laundry list of world-renowned and celebrity chefs, an historic music scene, the scenic Lake Michigan and a cityscape that begs to be admired, The Windy City is a magical place that lingers in your mind long after you’ve gone home.
If you’re looking for a list of what to do, where to go and what to eat while in Chi-Town, check out our review of the city’s best attractions. But for those in search of the perfect home base for your Midwest jaunt, consider a stay at the Conrad Chicago.
Located on the Magnificent Mile and within walking distance to most of the city’s best sights, the Conrad is a smart choice for travelers wanting a luxury experience with a Windy City feel. Plus, the property is only 11 miles away from the Midway International Airport, so you don’t have to worry about sitting in hour-long traffic just to get to your hotel.
At the property, guests enter through the street level doors but require a reservation to access the lobby level which sits high up on the 20th floor. It's a nice way to give guests a little extra privacy and security. Once inside, the lobby features a modern vibe with warm color palettes decorating the space, marble flooring and a large honeycomb-esque ceiling above.
To one side is the gastropub Baptiste & Bottle—a stylish eatery helmed by internationally-acclaimed chef and restaurateur Richard Sandoval—and to the front are comfy couches and work space underneath a stunning atrium and floor-to-ceiling windows. In the evenings, the restaurant turns into a lively destation for locals and travelers alike to mingle side-by-side.
For this visit, I checked into a 400-square-foot King room overlooking Michigan Ave. Similar to the lobby, guest rooms are colored with a soft, burnt red hue paired with neutral décor and Chicago art resting on the walls. This room category features a cozy love seat, workspace, marble bathroom, drawers and plenty of closet space for two guests to hang their belongings.
Should you prefer a little more space, six of the hotel’s 11 room categories are suites, ranging from the 620-square-feet to the 1,557-square-foot Presidential residence. Residing on the 16th and 17th floors, these large abodes include a living room, dining area with a six-person dining table, kitchenette, 1.5 baths and of course, floor-to-ceiling windows.
Regardless of room type, all options are smart accommodations and come with convenient touches such as Bluetooth technology, bedside light and shade controls, and complimentary in-room iPads showcasing the Conrad Concierge app. From the menu, guests can order room service, schedule a car or text with a personal concierge to send up extra toiletries or request a wake-up call for the next morning. For any Millennial who would rather text than make a phone call, this feature is much appreciated.
If you visit the property between spring and fall, you’ll have the chance to check out Noyane, the Conrad’s rooftop eatery featuring contemporary Japanese cuisine, craft cocktails and views of the city. Resting under twinkle lights and a shaded awning covering the bar, the space feels chic and inviting with outdoor couches and tables lining its borders.
On its menu, guests can try everything from sushi to poke, sticky ribs and pork belly with crispy shallots, hoisin and kimchi. We loved the vibe up there and the fresh sushi and seafood dishes were creative and flavorful. Pro tip: Save room for a Spiked Snowball for dessert which is shaved ice topped with flavor combinations such as bourbon and peach or chocolate vodka. You won’t be disappointed.
Because this is a city known for its cocktails, Noyane has also ensured that its beverage menu is just as impressive as its fare. If you’re a whiskey lover, check out the Avenue 15 which is made with Old Forester bourbon, Calvados, passion fruit, lime and orange flower water. On a warm afternoon, order the Sundance 13 made with Belvedere vodka, St. Germain, honey, lemon and sparkling wine. It’s a refreshing drink that’ll have you dreaming of summer days.
Other amenities around the hotel include a gym (open 24 hours) and a variety of meeting and event spaces. Whether you’re visiting the city for work or play, we highly recommend a stay at the Conrad Chicago. Outside its doors are a number of notable restaurants, high-end shopping destinations and attractions such as the Chicago Architecture Center and the lively Riverwalk.
