The hype
Guests rave about the impeccable service, incredibly comfortable beds, and the breathtaking views from the renovated rooms.
The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago
$400-600/ night
Book this if Book this if you want classic luxury with stunning lake views right on the Magnificent Mile, and you value a top-tier Club Lounge.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable views of Lake Michigan and the skyline from floor-to-ceiling windows
- One of the best Ritz-Carlton Club Lounges in the US with 5 daily food presentations
- Prime location atop Water Tower Place on the Magnificent Mile
Quick Take: The renovated rooms are stunning, but the 'Luxury Suites' still have dated furniture, and the indoor pool feels a bit like a YMCA.
Reviewed by @chicago_trav: I upgraded to the Club Lounge at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago and it was the best decision. Unlimited champagne, incredible food all day, and I even took plates back to my room. The service is top-notch. You absolutely have to book this access!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The water pressure in the showers can be weak, and the unrenovated suites feel out of place for a 5-star property.
- You plan to book a Club Level room to take advantage of the exceptional lounge
- You want to be steps away from high-end shopping on Oak Street and Michigan Avenue
- You appreciate a massive, well-equipped hotel gym with natural light
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally impeccable and spotless, though a few isolated reports mention missed dust and delayed turndown service.
- Bathroom hygiene: Pristine and sparkling. The spacious marble bathrooms and freestanding tubs are consistently praised for their cleanliness.
- Maintenance: Excellent in the renovated rooms, but the unrenovated suites show wear and tear, and some guests report weak shower pressure.
- Linens & towels: Plush, ultra-comfortable bedding and high-quality, fresh towels.
- Odors & scents: Fresh and clean. The hotel uses premium Diptyque amenities that leave a subtle, luxurious scent.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Occasional hallway noise due to heavy doors
- City street noise if on a lower floor (though most rooms are high up)
Before you book
Good to know
- The Club Lounge is closed on Sunday evenings and Mondays until 4pm, so plan accordingly
- The hotel shares a building with Water Tower Place, making shopping incredibly convenient
- There is a $250 non-refundable pet fee, and pets must be under 15 lbs
What to pack
- A swimsuit for the indoor lap pool
- Layers and a light down jacket, as Chicago weather by the lake can change rapidly
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the Magnificent Mile and nearby Navy Pier
Room Genie
Best picks
- Magnificent Mile Suite or Gold Coast Suite for stunning, fully renovated modern luxury
- Lake View rooms on the 25th floor or higher for incredible sunrise views over Lake Michigan
Rooms to avoid
- The 'Luxury Suite' category, which as of late 2025 still features dated, unrenovated furniture
- Rooms near the elevators if you are a light sleeper
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, I'm very excited for my upcoming stay. Could I please request a fully renovated room on a high floor (25th+) with a direct view of Lake Michigan? I'd also love to ensure it's away from the elevators for a quiet night's sleep. Thank you!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the Club Lounge worth the upgrade?
Absolutely. It's considered one of the best Ritz-Carlton lounges in the US, offering five generous food presentations daily and excellent service.
How much is parking?
Valet parking is $79 per night with in-and-out privileges, while self-parking is $54 per night.
Is the hotel pet-friendly?
Yes, but it comes with a steep $250 non-refundable fee per stay, and pets must be under 15 lbs (maximum two pets).
Are all the rooms renovated?
Most are, following a $100 million renovation, but some specific suite categories (like the Luxury Suite) still have older furniture.
Does the hotel have a pool?
Yes, there is a temperature-controlled, four-lane indoor lap pool, though some guests note the pool area feels a bit dated compared to the lobby.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is at 4:00 PM and check-out is at 12:00 PM. Early check-in is subject to availability.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask the concierge for a Fast Pass ticket to the Willis Tower Skydeck to skip the massive lines.
- ✨
If you have Marriott STARS access or book through a luxury advisor, you can get free breakfast at Torali and a $100 property credit.
- ✨
Grab a $5 bag of cheddar popcorn from your minibar—it's surprisingly good and cheap for a Ritz.
5 things to know before you go
💡The lobby is actually on the 12th floor, so you have to take an elevator up from the ground level just to check in.
💡The indoor pool is a true lap pool, not a lounging pool, and the surrounding locker rooms feel more like a high-end YMCA than a luxury spa.
💡The Club Lounge serves a massive sushi boat during the evening hors d'oeuvres presentation.
💡The minibar includes a Nespresso machine with complimentary pods, but the High Noon seltzers will cost you.
💡The hotel's gym is massive, flooded with natural light, and features a squat rack—a rarity for hotel fitness centers.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago is located and what's nearby.