How did it strike you on arrival?
Time transporting, in the best possible way. The Venetian Gothic exterior gives way to 19th-century interior of carved stone fireplaces, terrazzo floors, and leaded glass, all freshly restored. To call it Handsome and historic barely does it justice.
What’s the crowd like?
Design nerds and history buffs.
The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
Rooms vary in dimension widely, with the most spacious overlooking Millennium Park. But my Classic King in the back of the building was among the original accommodations built for sporting club members. It was small but ergonomic, and still big on style, with a woven luggage rack above the desk.
We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Brass-bed-inspired headboards and Faribault Woolen Mill blankets make even the bed a bit retro, though still cozy by modern sleep standards.
How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?
The signature boxing-style robes are an added comfort, and a fitting nod to the hotel’s athletic club roots.
Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Glass-walled showers and white tile with black accents provide a sense of spaciousness, even if the dimensions are not couple-friendly. Solid amenities come from C.O. Bigelow. The sweatshirt-fabric robes modeled on boxers' cover-ups are a nice change up from the typical hotel offerings.
Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
The Wi-Fi is good and included.
Staff: Did anyone rise above and beyond?
Front desk staffers clearly have training in the architecture and art of the building, and offer tour-guide-level answers to inquiries.
Anything we missed that we should have asked about?
The Drawing Room and Game Room offer relaxed dining experiences in vintage surroundings, while Topgolf Swing Suites and a historic basketball court add to the hotel’s playful spirit. The culinary offerings, led by the acclaimed Boka Restaurant Group, bring a refined touch to the dynamic and storied setting. On the rooftop, and mostly enclosed by an atrium, Cindy's cranks it up with stunning cocktails, seasonal dishes and fresh seafood, and a year-round terrace with some of the best views over Millennium Park. Come for the design and stay for the location and amenities.
What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?
So many love the building that it can be annoying to have to share it with the swells, especially on weekends. But you'll have that lobby to yourself in the morning hours.
Bottom line: Why are we booking here?
Excellent choice for location in Chicago, entertaining in-house amenities, and vintage style.
12 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60603
United States
http://chicagoathletichotel.com/
(312) 940-3552