My Favorite Place to Stay in Chicago: The Waldorf Astoria!

I headed back to Chicago in July for a fun trip with my kids. In case you didn’t know, I used to live in Chicago.

The first time I stepped foot in Chicago I felt something so magical, I can’t explain it.

This city has an energy to it, a pulse unmatched by anywhere else I’ve been in the country. I was so lucky to live here for three years with my hubs.

There’s a saying that if Chicago had better weather everyone would want to live here, and it’s so true! So if you haven’t been, just trust me and book a trip.

I stayed at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago. It’s BEAUTIFUL! The structure alone is impressive, it’s practically a skyscraper, yet it somehow feels homey when you pull into the driveway. You’re tucked away from the city.

It has a Parisian-inspired elegance located in downtown’s Gold Coast neighborhood. It’s an urban sanctuary with apartment-style rooms, award-winning spa retreat and two classically French restaurants for casual or fine dining experience.

Now I knew this was a luxury hotel, but walking into the room took my breath away for a moment. They have several suite and room options to choose from to help you find the best place to call your paradise.

All the furniture was simply beautiful, the bathroom was entirely marble and gorgeous. A big bath tub is so crucial for me, as I always end my day with a relaxing bath! Most rooms feature a full balcony, which is really nice and rare for a hotel in a big city. I love sitting on the balcony and getting some work done in the fresh air.

Luckily when we went it wasn’t winter time, because Chicago has brutal winters! It gets so cold there. During our stay it was actually insanely hot, but we still made the most of it and powered through!

The hotel features a HUGE gym with tons of updated equipment. I sadly didn’t have enough time to get a work-out in, but I appreciated it nonetheless. They had a small lap pool, which I thought was SO cool and unique.

I was dying to make use of the hot tub and sauna but didn’t have a spare moment to slip away since this was technically a work trip. Next time!

There are two restaurants at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago. Petit Margeaux, a classic French patisserie on the hotel’s lobby level, and Margeaux Brasserie, a Parisian café with elevated French cuisine combined with locally sourced ingredients. Both are equally delicious and worth going to, with amazing service.

If you don’t want to dine in at the hotel, it’s walking distance to so many shops and restaurants. I felt like I was in the heart of the city. You can just take off on foot and find something.

There are so many places to see and explore right by the Waldorf Astoria. The iconic Millennium Park and Cloud Gate, often referred to as “The Bean” by locals is a must see for anyone visiting Chicago. You can also take an architectural boat tour along the Chicago River, which is super cool.

Something that everyone NEEDS to do at least once is visit the 360 Chicago Observation Deck at the top of the John Hancock Observatory. You’ll get to see Chicago like you’ve never seen it before. There’s a thrill ride at the top if you’re feeling adventurous. If you’re afraid of heights, I would definitely not recommend this one because it can be a little scary for anyone.

Overall, The Waldorf Astoria Chicago is an absolutely beautiful hotel set in the heart of the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood, right in downtown Chicago. There’s so much nightlife, amazing places to eat, and plenty of shops. You will not regret a visit to Chicago, one of my favorite cities ever!