Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago: A Windy City Stunner

Hang on to your hat in the Windy City when you look upward at the stunning 81-story Aqua Tower in downtown Chicago. Home of the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago (the first 18 floors are hotel; the rest condos), it was the first of the upper-upscale Radisson Blu brand to be built and opened in the U.S. in 2011.

Today, because of the building’s beauty and design (by the environmentally conscious architect Jeanne Gang) it was even pointed out on the popular Architectural River Cruise (which I took while in Chicago)  that has plied the nearby Chicago River for years—noted along with such historic landmarks as the Tribune Tower and Wrigley Building.

Located in the Lakeshore East neighborhood in the heart of downtown Chicago, I knew it was going to be special almost as soon as I arrived at the airport. When I told my cab driver the hotel’s name and address, he nodded approvingly and said, “That is one of the most beautiful new buildings in the city.”

When he dropped me off, I understood what he meant. It’s a showy spectacular building –and the showcase style doesn’t stop once you’re inside. The lobby’s polished concrete, reclaimed brick, and steel beams pay homage to the city’s reputation as the birthplace of the modern skyscraper—yet the furniture, mirrored wall screen of striking Egyptian brass medallions and 50-foot long fireplace softens the space to give it a welcoming vibe. It was summer weather when I visited, so the fireplace wasn’t lit, but I can imagine how cozy it would be come a cold windy winter Chicago night. The entire lobby look is at the same time industrial and art-influenced (there’s even a small art gallery). Check-in is to the left of the lobby “corridor”. Staff—even when met on the elevator–are pleasant and helpful and obviously happy to be working here.

There are 334 rooms, which include various size floorplans and suites, plus a Business Class Level and lounge on the 17^th and 18^th floors. Room styles come in “Naturally Cool” décor—a contemporary and airy vibe with pale neutrals and light wood flooring –while the “Mansion House” style features dark wood and a more clubby atmosphere. (These décor styles are the same in all Radisson Blu brand hotels.) Room rates start at $198—not a bad price for a prime location in downtown Chicago.

My room, number 1304 was considered a standard but corner room (King bed) in the “Naturally Cool” style– with a balcony (which was an upgrade). Balconies are considered upgrades as only about half of the rooms have them—part of the architectural design you can see on the building’s exterior. When I stepped out on mine, the view was terrific. There are no buildings nudged beside the Aqua so I wasn’t looking into someone else’s office or bedroom. I could see Lake Michigan in the distance to the left (I’m directionally challenged) and Millennium Park in front of me. Below me was a landscaped park -like area, which I found out was part of the 80,000 square-foot recreational deck—complete with gardens, gazebos, two outdoor pools, firepits and even a 1/5 mile running trail.  

The room’s floor-to-ceiling windows let in spectacular light as well as city views—and I loved being able to leave the balcony door open if I wanted for fresh air. It was totally quiet with it closed. Yes, to the extra outlets on the bedside tables and double yes to the two adjustable reading lights over the bed and extra substantial blanket draped over the end of the bed. A desk area (free wi-fi), flat screen t.v., and comfy sitting chair by the balcony were part of the compact room’s furnishings. The room was configured abit differently because of being a corner—with more angles and nooks. In one, the mini bar was located with individual coffee/tea maker atop—with real cups—always nice.

The bathroom was spare but spacious (except around the sink where there never seems to be enough room in hotels). I liked the walk-in shower, always appreciate a lighted magnifying mirror, and adored the deep soaking tub. Shopping in Chicago is exhausting work, after all.

Eating, drinking and dining options include a blue-lit walk-up coffee bar that transforms into a wine bar in the afternoon in the lobby “corridor”. I also stopped in at the sophisticated sleek Filini Bar with its sparkling booth seatings (flickering LED lights are embedded in the tables!) for one of its specialty cocktails (a Bramble & Buck: blackberry and apple infused gin, lime juice, ginger beer—yum!)

The Filini Bar

Then I dined in the Filini Restaurant up the stairs—an Italian focused spot with menu offerings such as the buffalo milk burrata (a must order), and the delicious “branzino” entrée—a whole Mediterranean seabass with marinated artichokes. Besides the food, a friendly and accommodating server (Daniele) who was knowledgeable about wines and did not discourage sharing first courses and entrees (in fact, encouraged it as the portions are good-sized) made it all a relaxed, enjoyable affair. A dessert sampling of gelatos and warm beignets with three sauces finished the meal (and me) off.

The good thing about eating such a meal here though is the fact you can work off all the calories the next day at Radisson Blu’s state-of-the-art hotel fitness area (it’s one the largest hotel fitness area I’ve ever seen) There is also an in-door basketball court, and indoor lap pool. On the other hand, sipping a cappuccino by the outdoor pool isn’t a bad way to start the day either.

For more information, check the website. You can also book online through Expedia and Hotels.com.

Review and photos by Donna Tabbert Long who was a guest of the hotel.