A Personal Journey Through an Icon of Luxury
Let me be honest with you. The first time I walked into the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, I felt a mix of excitement and a little bit of that imposter syndrome. You know the feeling, like, “Do I belong in a place this nice?” But from the moment the doorman greeted me with a genuine, warm smile that reached his eyes, something shifted. That feeling melted away, replaced by a sense of calm and anticipation. This, I would learn, is the magic of the Four Seasons Chicago. It’s not just about marble floors and chandeliers, though it has those in spades. It’s about how the place makes you feel: valued, relaxed, and perfectly placed in the heart of one of the world’s greatest cities.
I have visited this hotel on several occasions since then, for a special anniversary dinner, a weekend staycation, and even just for a cocktail at their brilliant bar. Each experience has layered my understanding of what makes it a true standout, even in a city filled with incredible five-star hotel options. This article is my comprehensive, personal take on the Four Seasons Chicago. I will walk you through everything from the jaw-dropping views to the quality of the bathrobes, all with the goal of helping you decide if this is the perfect luxury base for your own Chicago adventure.
A Location You Simply Can’t Beat: The Heart of the Magnificent Mile
If you’re visiting Chicago, especially for the first time, location is everything. The city is sprawling, and while public transportation is good, there’s an undeniable convenience to being in the epicenter of the action. The Four Seasons Chicago sits proudly at 120 E Delaware Pl, which is essentially the bullseye on the dartboard of the Magnificent Mile.
Stepping outside the hotel’s doors, you are immediately immersed in the energy of Michigan Avenue. To your left and right, you’ll find every shop you can imagine, from the iconic flagships of Bloomingdale’s (which is connected to the hotel via the 900 North Michigan Shops mall) and Saks Fifth Avenue to the everyday appeal of an Apple Store. But it’s more than just shopping. A short two-block walk east brings you to the historic Water Tower, one of the few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire, standing as a beautiful symbol of the city’s resilience. Wander a few blocks in the other direction, and you find yourself in the elegant, tree-lined streets of the Gold Coast neighborhood, home to beautiful brownstones, charming cafes, and some of the city’s best restaurants.
What I appreciate most about this location is its versatility. You can have a morning of high-end retail therapy without ever needing a coat in the winter, thanks to the direct access to the 900 North Michigan Shops. You can then retreat to the quiet calm of the hotel, which feels a world away from the bustle below, before heading out for an evening exploring the nearby Rush Street nightlife or the theater district, which is just a short cab ride away. For a tourist, this location is a dream because it puts you within easy reach of so much of what makes Chicago great.
Your Sanctuary in the Sky: The Rooms and Suites
A hotel room is more than just a place to sleep; it’s your personal sanctuary after a long day of exploring or meetings. The rooms at the Four Seasons Chicago take this concept to an entirely new level. The first thing you’ll notice when you enter is the light. The floor-to-ceiling windows are a signature feature, and they flood the space with natural light, framing breathtaking, postcard-worthy views of the city and Lake Michigan.
I remember standing at the window in my room during my first stay, just watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and purple over the lake. The John Hancock Center, another Chicago architectural giant, stood so close it felt like I could almost touch it. That view alone felt like a premium feature. But the beauty of the room extends beyond the windows.
The decor is classic and timeless. It doesn’t chase trendy, flashy designs that will look dated in a few years. Instead, you find a palette of warm neutrals, rich woods, and elegant furnishings. The bed is, without exaggeration, one of the most comfortable I have ever slept in. It’s the kind of bed that makes you want to order room service just for an excuse to stay in it a little longer. The linens are crisp and high-thread-count, and the blackout curtains are so effective that you might lose track of time in the morning.
The bathroom is another highlight. Spacious and clad in marble, it features a deep soaking tub separate from the glass-enclosed shower. It’s the perfect setup whether you’re a bath person looking to unwind or a shower person needing to get ready quickly. The amenities are from a high-end brand, and they are generously sized, not those tiny, frustrating bottles. For families or those traveling with friends, the suites offer separate living areas that provide valuable space to spread out, making the hotel feel more like a luxurious apartment than a standard hotel room.
A Culinary Destination: Adorn Bar & Restaurant
A great luxury hotel almost always has a great restaurant, and the Four Seasons Chicago is no exception. Adorn Bar & Restaurant, located on the fourth floor, is a destination in its own right. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet inviting, with a beautiful bar area that is a popular spot for both hotel guests and well-heeled locals.
The cuisine is modern American with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. I had the pleasure of enjoying a dinner there for an anniversary, and the experience was memorable. The service was attentive without being intrusive, and the sommelier was incredibly knowledgeable, helping us pick a wine that perfectly complemented our meals. I recall a dish of roasted chicken that was so perfectly cooked and flavorful it made me rethink how good a simple chicken dinner could be. It’s a testament to the skill of the kitchen that they can elevate familiar dishes to such a high level.
But you don’t have to commit to a full multi-course dinner to enjoy Adorn. Their weekend brunch is a fabulous, leisurely affair. And the bar is one of my favorite places in the city for a craft cocktail. The bartenders are artists, and the ambiance in the evening is buzzing with a low, sophisticated energy. It’s the perfect place to start or end your night. And of course, if you prefer the ultimate privacy, their in-room dining is impeccable. There’s a certain indulgence to having a beautifully presented, white-tablecloth meal delivered to your room while you sit in your plush robe and gaze out at the city lights.
The Spa and Wellness Center: Rejuvenation on the 7th Floor
Travel, even for fun, can be exhausting. A true luxury hotel understands this and provides a space for rejuvenation. The Four Seasons Chicago Spa is a serene oasis that feels detached from the urban energy just outside. The moment you step off the elevator, the lighting softens, the noise fades, and you are greeted by a sense of tranquility.
I have treated myself to a massage here, and it was one of the best I’ve had in the city. The therapist was professional, intuitive, and clearly skilled. She took the time to ask about any areas of concern and tailored the treatment accordingly. The treatment rooms themselves are quiet, dimly lit, and designed for pure relaxation. But you don’t need to book a treatment to enjoy the spa facilities, which is a huge plus for guests.
The indoor pool is arguably one of the best hotel pools in Chicago. It’s a large, beautiful pool surrounded by lounge chairs and, once again, those incredible floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views. It’s a surreal experience to be swimming while looking out at the skyscrapers of Michigan Avenue. There’s also a whirlpool and a fully-equipped fitness center that is more like a premium gym than a typical hotel workout room. Whether you’re a serious athlete maintaining your routine or someone who just wants a relaxing swim, the wellness facilities here are top-tier.
The Heart of the Experience: Impeccable Service
We’ve talked about the what—the location, the rooms, the amenities. But the soul of the Four Seasons Chicago, and what truly justifies its five-star rating, is the how: the service. This is where the hotel separates itself from very good hotels and enters the realm of the exceptional.
The staff operates with a quiet efficiency and a genuine desire to be helpful. It’s never performative or obsequious. Let me give you a small example. On one visit, I casually mentioned to the concierge that I was hoping to get last-minute tickets to a popular show that was likely sold out. Instead of just telling me it was impossible, he said, “Let me see what I can do,” and picked up the phone. Fifteen minutes later, he had secured two tickets for me at a respectable price. He didn’t just provide a service; he solved a problem.
Another time, I saw a family with young children being checked in. The front desk staff had coloring books and crayons ready for the kids and were speaking to them directly, making them feel just as welcome as their parents. This attention to detail, this anticipation of guest needs, is woven into the fabric of the hotel’s culture. From the housekeeping staff who leave your room in immaculate condition to the door staff who remember your name, the service makes you feel like you are the most important person in the building. In the world of luxury travel, this is the gold standard, and the Four Seasons Chicago delivers it consistently.
Conclusion: Who is the Four Seasons Chicago For?
So, after all this, is the Four Seasons Chicago worth it? The answer, as with most things in life, is: it depends on what you’re looking for.
If you are a budget-conscious traveler who plans to spend very little time in your hotel room and is primarily interested in the lowest possible price, then this is probably not the hotel for you. There are many other excellent, more affordable options in the city.
However, if you are looking for an unforgettable luxury experience, the Four Seasons Chicago is absolutely worth the investment. It is perfect for:
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Couples celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary, engagement, or romantic getaway.
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Families who will appreciate the spacious suites, the incredible pool, and the incredibly accommodating staff.
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Business travelers who need a seamless, efficient, and prestigious base of operations.
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Any traveler for whom impeccable service, a prime location, and an overall sense of tranquility and luxury are the top priorities.
My final verdict is this: the Four Seasons Chicago is more than just a place to sleep. It is an integral part of your Chicago experience. It elevates your entire trip, providing a beautiful, serene, and perfectly located sanctuary that you will be excited to return to at the end of each day. It’s an investment in comfort, convenience, and memories. For me, it remains the gold standard against which I measure all other luxury hotels in Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the Four Seasons Chicago connected to any shopping?
A: Yes, it is directly connected to the 900 North Michigan Shops, a high-end mall featuring Bloomingdale’s, Billy Reid, Vince, and many other luxury and contemporary retailers. You can access this mall without ever going outside.
Q2: How is the Four Seasons Chicago for families with children?
A: It is exceptionally family-friendly. The hotel offers connecting rooms, spacious suites, child-proofing amenities, kid-sized robes and slippers, and even a complimentary milk and cookie treat at turndown service. The indoor pool is also a huge hit with children.
Q3: What is the difference between the Four Seasons and the nearby Park Hyatt or Ritz-Carlton?
A: All are excellent five-star hotels. The Four Seasons is often praised for its consistently exceptional service and its fantastic pool and spa facilities. Its location directly on the Magnificent Mile and connected to a mall is also a key differentiator. The Park Hyatt is known for its more modern, minimalist design, and the Ritz-Carlton offers stunning views from its higher-floor location. The choice often comes down to personal preference for style and specific amenities.
Q4: Is there a resort fee?
A: Like most luxury hotels, the Four Seasons Chicago does charge a daily facility fee. This typically includes access to the pool and fitness center, wireless internet, and other ancillary services. It’s always best to check the specific details at the time of booking.
Q5: What is the best way to get to the hotel from O’Hare or Midway Airport?
A: You can take a taxi, use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, or arrange a private car service through the hotel’s concierge. The drive from O’Hare typically takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic, while from Midway it’s usually 30-45 minutes.
