The hype
Guests are obsessed with the architecture and the gym/pool facilities but divided on the stark, modern room interiors.
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel
$150-400/ night
Book this if You want to sleep inside a piece of architectural history with a killer pool deck, and you don't mind sacrificing some coziness for style.
Why People Love It
- The Jeanne Gang 'Aqua Tower' architecture is world-famous and stunning
- Massive 80,000 sq ft lifestyle deck with indoor/outdoor pools and running track
- Connected to the Chicago Pedway (a lifesaver in winter)
Quick Take: A visually striking skyscraper that feels more like a high-end condo complex than a hotel, with all the echoes and quirks that come with it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'cool' hard floors look great but make the rooms loud and cold; bring slippers.
- You are an architecture nerd who wants to stay in a landmark
- You prioritize a massive gym and lap pool over a soft mattress
- You are visiting in summer and want a resort-style pool deck in the city
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable, though some reports of missed daily service or late timing.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but isolated complaints about dirty jacuzzis or water marks on tubs.
- Maintenance: Good condition, though the 'modern' furniture shows scuffs easily.
- Linens & towels: Crisp and clean, though some guests find the towels a bit thin.
- Odors & scents: Neutral and fresh; no musty carpet smell because there is no carpet.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Ambulance/Fire truck sirens from station next door
- Hallway conversations echoing on wood floors
- Elevator dings if near the lift bank
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is connected to the Pedway, but the route is a maze—ask the concierge for a map immediately.
- Balconies are not standard; you must book a specific room type to get one.
- Resort fee is ~$30/night and covers the gym/pool access.
What to pack
- Slippers (cold wood floors)
- Swimsuit (the indoor pool is open year-round)
- Earplugs (for the sirens)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Corner rooms for unique layouts and extra window nooks
- High-floor 'Park View' rooms to minimize street noise and see the Bean
- Rooms with balconies (upgrade required) for fresh air
Rooms to avoid
- Low floors facing Columbus Drive (siren noise)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (noise bleed)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a 'Naturally Cool' style room on a high floor (20+), ideally facing Millennium Park to minimize street noise. If a corner room is available, that would be fantastic.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the outdoor pool open year-round?
No, it's seasonal (typically June to September). The indoor lap pool is open year-round.
Does the hotel have parking?
Yes, but it's pricey. Self-park is ~$63/night and valet is ~$80/night with in/out privileges.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs under 40lbs are welcome for a ~$75 fee plus a $100 cleaning deposit.
Can I walk to the Bean/Millennium Park?
Yes, it's literally across the street (about a 5-minute walk).
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, expect to pay around $26-$30 per night, which covers wifi and gym access.
What is the difference between room styles?
'Naturally Cool' is light wood and airy; 'Mansion House' is dark wood and moody. Same layout, different vibe.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 3rd-floor 'Lifestyle Garden' is a hidden gem for a quiet coffee away from the lobby.
- ✨
Use the Pedway to get to the Hyatt Regency or Fairmont for dinner without going outside in winter.
- ✨
The wavy balconies are designed to be 'bird-friendly' to prevent strikes—a cool fact for nature lovers.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'no carpet' policy is great for hygiene but terrible for acoustics.
💡The fire station next door is *very* active; you will hear sirens.
💡The indoor pool is a proper 25-meter lap pool, not just a plunge pool.
💡You can access the Chicago Riverwalk easily by walking under the St. Regis nearby.
💡The lobby turns into a wine bar in the afternoon, which is surprisingly decent.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel is located and what's nearby.