The Windy City is famous for many things: its food, rich history and vibrant culture. It’s also home to some of the best boutique hotels in the United States. What are boutique hotels, you ask? If you like luxury travelling and reasonable prices, you’d be glad to know about their existence. Here are our 5 boutique hotels in Chicago to choose from for your trip to the Windy City.

1. 21c Museum Hotel Chicago

grey hotel bed with two pieces of art on top

Chicago’s arts culture is best embodied at the 21c Museum Hotel. From the social realism movement to the playful surrealism of Chicago Imagists, showcased in this stylish art hotel on a rotation basis. Come to the 21c Museum Hotel for curated exhibitions of local artists, cultural programming and culinary offerings. Experience Chicago’s most exciting art sanctuaries here.

Step into one of their rooms, where you will find minimalistic yet bright and airy designs from architect Deborah Berke Partners. A modern palette with colours such as Mercurio grey, anthracite and warm gold is just what your soul needs to appreciate the art around you.

Their 297 guest rooms and suites are spacious, with astounding views of Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, the former is only steps away from the hotel. Don’t forget to visit the Navy Pier, a 21st-century icon, while you’re there.

2. Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile

french style modern hotel lobby

If you’re a big fan of French design, then the Sofitel Chicago at the Magnificent Mile is not one to miss. The hotel was created by the hands of French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, who specialises in promoting the relationship between buildings and their environment. This can be seen in the avant-garde styling of the exterior: outstanding, but harmonious at the same time.

As the name suggests, this hotel is in view of the Magnificent Mile, Chicago’s premier commercial district. It’s also close to River North, an upscale neighbourhood with posh nightclubs and cocktail bars. If you’re looking for something more serene, then Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, is within walking distance. Enjoy the life and nature of Chicago at the Sofitel at Magnificent Mile.

3. Chicago Athletic Association

view of the hotel lobby of the chicago athletic association boutique hotel

Located next to the Chicago Loop, this hotel is at the heart of the business district of the city. However, contrary to its neighbourhood, the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel has vintage-inspired custom furnishings, bringing back to the beauty of the early 20th-century. Upon entering one of their guest rooms, you will be greeted with a nostalgic feeling of old-school athletics, but with a luxurious twist.

The hotel has 7 dining establishments, including late-night options. Try anything from an all-American bistro to a fine dining experience, this place has it all. Most importantly, you can request to have meals right from the comfort of your bed, what else can you ask? This hotel is proudly pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the same experience as you.

Head out to the Chicago Cultural Center and Ford Center for events, meetings and games. Experience all the best that downtown Chicago has to offer at the Chicago Athletic Association.

4. Staypineapple

view of the staypineapple boutique hotel

Within the Chicago Loop lies an iconic hotel: The Staypineapple. Not to be outdone by the rich culture around it, this award-winning hotel is an attraction in itself. With the cheeky pineapple as its emblem, the Staypineapple offers you deluxe, fun-infused services. Most of all, be in full view of the city, including Chicago’s North Side, while you stay here.

A signature of the Staypineapple is the Naked Experience. Understanding the discomfort of travellers when it comes to mediocre rooms, this service provides the utmost comfort for visitors - as if you’re naked. Bed sheets and linens are always washed before a guest arrives, and there are separate blankets to avoid fighting for it. It’s safe to say that your stay at this hotel is nothing but fun and comfortable.

5. Sophy Hyde Park

view of the chicago skyline through a boutique hotel room

The Sophy at Hyde Park is situated in the most trailblazing area of Chicago. It’s a stone’s throw away from the McCormick Convention Center, and the Soldier Field of the Chicago Bears. The neighbourhood is home to the city’s hottest restaurant concepts. For vegans, check out “Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat” just a couple of buildings away. Alternatively, for people looking for hearty southern authenticity, try the open kitchen of “Virtue”.

But that’s outside of the Sophy. Step into one of their deluxe suites, where it’s stylish but functional. Take in the view of the Windy City with their floor to ceiling windows, including the Museum of Science and Industry and Jackson Park. With every turn of the corner, you can find that the hotel embeds the beauty of the artisans that created it.

Explore the timeless beauty of Chicago, and engage in thought-provoking activities at the Second City. Couple this with the beauty of boutique traveling, and you have the perfect formula for an unforgettable trip. Your road to becoming the ultimate stylish traveler begins today, so let’s get started!