The hype
Travelers are obsessed with the huge bathrooms and fireplaces, but mixed on the 'no tipping' execution.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
$450-1000+/ night
Book this if You want a Parisian apartment vibe with a fireplace in the Gold Coast, and you hate the awkwardness of tipping.
Why People Love It
- No-tipping policy (mostly) makes service feel effortless
- Huge rooms (starting at 480 sq ft) often feature gas fireplaces and terraces
- The 'Vi-Spring' mattresses are legendary for sleep quality
Quick Take: A stunning chateau-style fortress where the rooms are bigger than most Chicago apartments, but the pool is more 'refreshing' than 'relaxing'.
Reviewed by @Nolimitem29: I checked into the Junior Suite and was blown away by the fireplace—it makes the room feel like a luxury apartment. The night views of the Gold Coast are stunning, and the staff spoiled me with macarons. It’s the perfect spot for a cozy, upscale winter weekend.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
While the hotel says 'no tips,' the restaurant adds an automatic 18-20% gratuity, which confuses some guests.
- You crave privacy: the courtyard entrance feels like a fortress
- You love a long bath: the soaking tubs are massive and standard
- You want a walkable Gold Coast base near Oak Street shopping
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Twice-daily service is standard and generally flawless. Turndown includes water and slippers.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Marble is kept polished, grout is white. No mold reports found.
- Maintenance: Excellent condition, though some guests noted minor wear on carpets in older rooms before the refresh.
- Linens & towels: Plush, heavy, and crisp. Robes are a highlight — thick and soft.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of fresh flowers and a subtle signature scent. No musty odors reported.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Ambulance sirens (it's a city center)
- Hallway noise if near elevators
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'no tipping' policy applies to bell staff and housekeeping, but check restaurant checks for auto-gratuity.
- Spa access (sauna/whirlpool) often requires a treatment booking or Diamond status.
- Complimentary house car (often a Mercedes or Lexus) drops off within a 2-mile radius — first come, first served.
What to pack
- Swim cap and goggles (the pool is for laps, not floating)
- Smart casual dinner wear (Gold Coast is dressy)
- Walking shoes (you are steps from the Lakefront Trail)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Gold Coast Corner Suite (fireplaces, dual balconies, tons of light)
- Terrace King (guarantees outdoor space, worth the upgrade in summer)
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floor rooms facing Walton Street if you are a light sleeper (traffic noise)
- Rooms near the service elevator (occasional cart noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a room on a higher floor (15+) facing the courtyard for maximum quiet. If available, a corner unit with a fireplace would be ideal.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool warm?
Not really. It's a lap pool kept at a cooler temperature for exercise, often described as 'chilly' by guests.
Does the hotel really have a no-tipping policy?
Yes, for hotel staff (valet, housekeeping, bellman). However, the restaurant Brass Tack adds a service charge automatically.
Is breakfast included?
Not standard, but Hilton Honors Gold/Diamond members get a daily credit (usually ~$25-$50/person) which covers a main dish.
Can I park my own car?
No, it is valet only ($89/night). Self-parking garages are available a block away for half the price.
Are the fireplaces in every room?
Most rooms have them, but not the entry-level 'Superior' rooms. Book a 'Deluxe' or higher to guarantee one.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome for a $150 fee. They even provide pet beds and bowls.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'house car' can drop you off at dinner, saving you an Uber fare — just ask the concierge early.
- ✨
You can order the famous 'chocolate cake' from the room service menu even late at night.
- ✨
There is a secret 'courtyard' entrance that makes you feel like a VIP avoiding the paparazzi.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'no tipping' policy can feel awkward if you're used to tipping — staff will politely refuse cash.
💡The pool area is surprisingly small and narrow compared to the photos.
💡The in-room Nespresso machines are sometimes 'on request' rather than standard in all rooms.
💡You might hear the 'L' train faintly from certain north-facing high-floor rooms.
💡The lobby bar 'Peacock Lounge' is often very quiet — great for work, bad for a party vibe.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Waldorf Astoria Chicago is located and what's nearby.