12 Postcards
Experience luxury at this upscale high-rise, where elegant rooms meet exceptional service, a chic bar, and a serene spa, all in a prime downtown location.
"One look at the huge English courtyard, or the museum-like marble lobby, and it’s clear that this is a full-scale luxury hotel all the way — especially since all this black, white, and polish gives off a dazzling Art Deco vibe. Fortunately, the hotel undercuts its potentially chilly elegance with outstanding service, for which no staff person is allowed to accept a tip." - The MICHELIN Guide
"One look at the huge English courtyard, or the museum-like marble lobby, and it’s clear that this is a full-scale luxury hotel all the way — especially since all this black, white, and polish gives off a dazzling Art Deco vibe. Fortunately the hotel undercuts its potentially chilly elegance with outstanding service, for which no staff person is allowed to accept a tip." - The MICHELIN Guide
"And the team at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago continues its eagle-eye attention past checkout, with personal concierges who will pack up guests' luggage and ship it home for them, helping smooth the pain of reentry."
"You'll feel instantly transported to a French chateau upon arrival to this Gold Coast retreat with all of the comforts of a luxury hotel with a personalized, boutique feel. A sleek charm and upscale amenities (most of the rooms have fireplaces and terraces) evoke a fairytale kind of feel year-round. Dedicated service, alongside a notable spa, restaurant, and cocktail lounge, all draw an array of travelers checking in for an elevated escape, from families to couples seeking romantic retreat. For sunset views over Chicago neighborhoods, opt for a West-facing room, while those jonesing for Lake Michigan views will do well with a room facing North or East. And if you’re looking to experience the property in big ways, consider one of their six residential suites, each boasting a fireplace, marble bathroom, and floor-to-ceiling windows." - CNT Editors
"Why book? For all of the comforts of a luxury hotel with a personalized, boutique feel. Excellent dining options, warm hospitality, and a fantastic location in one of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods, footsteps away from premier shopping, dining, and nightlife. Set the scene You'll feel instantly transported to a French chateau upon arrival to this Gold Coast retreat, with its regal purple awnings and old-world motor court (credit celebrated architect Lucien Lagrange). That entryway is all the more eye-catching around the holidays, when a 25-foot tree and a canopy of string lighting greet guests driving up. But with its sleek charm and upscale amenities (most of the rooms have fireplaces and terraces), the hotel evokes a fairytale kind of feel year-round. Dedicated service, alongside a notable spa, restaurant, and cocktail lounge, all draw an array of travelers checking in for an elevated escape, from families to couples seeking romantic retreat. The backstory The hotel was originally built on land owned by Bernard Heerey, who donated proceeds of the sale to Chicago youth organizations (onsite cocktail lounge Bernard’s is named in his honor). The property is currently owned by Chicago-based Mansueto Office. The rooms A warm white palette modernizes the rooms, while a whimsical, floral headboard from designer Ashley Woodson Bailey serves as a centerpiece. Depending on the length of your stay, try to cushion in some time to chill—you’ll want to cozy up with the Boca Terry robes and take advantage of the Aesop hair and body care (and get a good night’s rest with Frette bedding). For sunset views over Chicago neighborhoods, opt for a West-facing room, while those jonesing for Lake Michigan views will do well with a room facing North or East. And if you’re looking to experience the property in big ways, consider one of their six residential suites, each boasting a fireplace, marble bathroom, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Food and drink Visit Brass Tack on the third floor for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (and weekend brunch). The recently debuted restaurant features modern American fare from chef Nicholas Marino, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients (think grilled porkchop or hand-cut pappardelle). Post-dinner, head to Bernard’s, the second floor’s intimate craft cocktail and Champagne bar that’s become a local favorite. The spa The award-winning Waldorf Astoria Chicago Spa & Health Club offers a range of signature services, including massages, facials, and body treatments. Industry-leading skincare brands like Biologique Recherché, Knesko, and Balmain stock their shelves and inspire offerings (such as their Biologique Recherché Facials). If you book, come early to enjoy amenities like the eucalyptus steam rooms, dry sauna, jacuzzis, and outdoor spa terrace. The neighborhood/area The Gold Coast is home to several popular, nightlife-geared dining options—consider a reservation at any of them a good excuse to shop the neighborhood earlier in the day (it’s one of the city’s best for luxury brands like Veronica Beard or Le Labo). The service The staff here is friendly and attentive, and a Personal Concierge team helps to accommodate special requests and touches before, during, and after stays (e.g. a courtesy car for pick-ups and drop-offs; assistance with shipping goods and luggage). For families Parents will appreciate options for strollers and an in-room pack-n-play, and kids will enjoy thoughtful touches like teddy bears upon arrival or an in-room tent set-up.Eco effort The hotel prioritizes locally sourced ingredients throughout its dining venues, uses recycling systems, and encourages water conservation methods. Accessibility The hotel’s accessible rooms and suites are spacious and comply with ADA regulations—guests can expect step-free access throughout the suite, upper floors accessible by elevator, and accessible parking. Anything left to mention? Try to visit for the property’s annual holiday ceremony, when the Gold Coast’s largest tree is illuminated with 14,000 twinkling lights—an event benefitting Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital. Later in the winter, catch Brass Tack’s special menus for Restaurant Week or Valentine’s Day."
