The 7 Best Hotels on the River in Chicago (2025)

Chicago's city skyline and unique architecture featuring historic buildings peppered with steely skyscrapers are its crowning glory. To best enjoy these views from your hotel we recommend booking a property overlooking the river. Our hotel experts have scoured the area to bring you a collection of the best hotels in Chicago on the river ranging from chic design-led properties to fabulous five-star luxury stays. Whether you want a quiet spot to simply unwind or you would rather a lively stay complete with a happening rooftop restaurant, there is something for everyone here. 

For luxury

• The St Regis Chicago is a luxurious choice in downtown Chicago, right where the river meets the lake. Expect sophisticated rooms, plus an expansive spa, indoor pool, a sultry bar, and buzzing restaurants with river views. Effortlessly elegant.
• LondonHouse is a luxury hotel in downtown Chicago, well placed on Michigan Avenue. Pick this property for its indulgent rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Chicago River and marble bathrooms. With a chic rooftop bar and superb seafood and steak restaurant, this is a spoiling choice.

• The Langham, Chicago is another well-positioned option overlooking the river in downtown. Elegant rooms are classic in their design with views from picture frame windows stealing the show. Amenities include an exclusive members club, gym, restaurant, bar, and indoor pool.

For contemporary style

• Buzzy TheWit Hotel is a playful spot with modern design. Expect spacious rooms and luxury creature comforts including high ceilings and large windows with skyline views. The 27th-floor rooftop bar is a reason to stay in itself and offers epic river and city views.

For a business hotel

• Kimpton Hotel Monaco is a boutique business hotel with lots of soul. Located in a former hat factory, there are fun historical touches throughout. Bedrooms are classic contemporary luxury; highlights include snug window seats, modern art, and a cool but cosy grey and blue palette. Great value and the service is excellent.

For a lively stay

• Virgin Hotel is perfect for the modern traveller. Rooms with all the mod-cons are contemporary and luxurious. With five restaurants on-site and nightly entertainment at the bars, this is a fun stay. The rooftop bar is particularly memorable for the views. Ideal for the young and trendy.
• Moxy Chicago Downtown is a fun boutique-style hotel in the River North district, known for its buzzing nightlife. The decor is contemporary industrial-cool, with splashes of hot pink - pick a Corner City View room for great city skyline views from floor-to-ceiling windows.

Still not sure where to book?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Chicago.
• Refine your search and look at the best hotels in West Loop, Chicago.
• Check out all our recommendations in Illinois.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.