Roomer

The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA
$250-450/ night

Book this if You want Art Deco glamour attached to a mall so you never have to brave the Chicago winter.

Why People Love It

9.0⭐842 reviews
  • Direct indoor access to The Shops at North Bridge (Nordstrom)
  • Rooftop terrace with fire pits and winter curling
  • Stunning 1930s Art Deco façade and interiors

Quick Take: A gorgeous hard product that sometimes feels like a really nice Westin in a tuxedo.

Reviewed by @worldviewsandwonderlust: I stayed in the Gwen Lux Suite and honestly, it felt more like a luxury apartment than a hotel. Having that massive private terrace right on Michigan Avenue was a total game-changer for my trip. Absolutely worth the splurge for the space alone.

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Travelers adore the location and the rooftop vibe, but many feel the service doesn't always match the 'Luxury Collection' price tag.

Reality check

Multiple guests note that while the rooms are beautiful, amenities can be sparse—empty mini-fridges and no coffee makers in some base rooms.

  • You are planning a shopping spree on the Magnificent Mile
  • You appreciate Art Deco design and history
  • You want a lively rooftop bar scene right upstairs

Cleanliness & Maintenance

8.8
  • Housekeeping: Generally excellent daily service; turndown service is a nice touch in suites.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are typically sparkling, with high-end Molton Brown toiletries.
  • Maintenance: Most rooms are well-maintained, though some guests report minor wear on furniture.
  • Linens & towels: Frette linens are crisp and high quality; towels are plush.
  • Odors & scents: Lobby has a signature scent; rooms are fresh, though hallway carpets can sometimes trap odors.

Sleepability™

8.5SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • City sirens on lower floors
  • Hallway noise if near the elevators

Before you book

Good to know

  • The hotel entrance is on the 5th floor; the ground floor is just a small lobby for the elevator.
  • You can walk directly into Nordstrom without going outside.
  • The $25 destination fee includes a $12.50 daily F&B credit—use it or lose it.

What to pack

  • Dressy casual outfits for the rooftop bar
  • Comfortable shoes for the Mag Mile
  • Swimsuit? No. Leave it at home.

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Lux King Suite for the extra space and soaking tub
  • Terrace Suites for private outdoor space (rare in Chicago)

Rooms to avoid

  • Lower floor rooms facing Rush Street (more noise)
  • Rooms directly under the rooftop bar if you're an early sleeper

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I would love a room on a high floor (10+) facing away from the elevators. If available, a room with a view of the architecture rather than the opposing building wall would be appreciated.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is there a pool?

No, there is no pool at The Gwen. If that's a dealbreaker, look at the InterContinental nearby.

How much is parking?

Valet is steep, around $79-$84 per night. SpotHero is your friend here.

Is it pet friendly?

Yes, but it costs ~$125 per stay plus a daily fee. They do provide dog beds and bowls.

What is the 'Tipsy Tea'?

A boozy high tea served on weekends with cocktails and DJ sets—definitely not your grandma's tea party.

Can I get to the mall from the hotel?

Yes, there is a direct indoor connection to The Shops at North Bridge.

Is breakfast included?

Generally no, unless you have specific Marriott status or booked a package. It's à la carte and pricey.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    The 'Prohibition Porter' cocktail service brings a bartender to your room.

  • ✨

    Use the $12.50 daily credit for a morning coffee or an evening nightcap; it doesn't roll over.

  • ✨

    Ask for a room with a 'city view' to avoid staring at the beige wall of the InterContinental.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The building was originally the headquarters for McGraw-Hill and features panels by sculptor Gwen Lux.

  • 💡In winter, the rooftop installs a curling rink.

  • 💡You can book a 'Glamping' experience on the terrace in summer, sleeping in a tent under the stars.

  • 💡The gym is open 24/7 but is somewhat small for a hotel of this size.

  • 💡There is a Moët & Chandon vending machine in the lobby.

Local Playbook

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