Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago on North Columbus Drive, you can’t miss that distinctive wavy facade — it’s honestly one of the most striking buildings in the Loop. This four-star property sits right in the heart of downtown Chicago, and I mean right in the thick of things. The lobby has this sleek, contemporary vibe that feels polished without being stuffy, and the staff actually seems genuinely happy to see you arrive.

Location That Actually Matters

You know what’s great about this spot? You’re literally steps from Millennium Park and the lakefront — I’m talking a five-minute walk to see Cloud Gate (the Bean, if you’re being casual about it). The Chicago Riverwalk is right there too, which honestly makes for perfect evening strolls after a long day of meetings or sightseeing. Navy Pier is close enough that you won’t need an Uber, and if you’re into architecture tours, well, you’re basically standing in the middle of the best outdoor museum in America. Parking is available right at the hotel, which — let me tell you — is a huge relief in downtown Chicago.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in had floor-to-ceiling windows that made me feel like I was living in one of those glossy magazine spreads. The beds here are seriously comfortable — and I’m someone who’s pretty picky about mattresses. There’s something about the way they’ve designed these spaces that feels both modern and actually livable, not like you’re staying in a showroom. The bathrooms are spacious enough that you won’t be bumping elbows with your travel companion, and the shower pressure is exactly what you hope for after walking around the city all day.

Dining and Amenities

Breakfast here covers both Continental and American options, which means you can grab something quick or settle in for a proper meal before tackling the city. The restaurant on-site does solid work — nothing that’ll change your life, but definitely reliable when you don’t feel like venturing out. What I really appreciated was the fitness center, which actually has decent equipment and stays open late for those of us who prefer working out after the tourist crowds thin out.

Why Guests Love It

Here’s the thing about this place — it just works. The location score of 9.0 isn’t just some random number; couples especially seem to love it here, probably because you can walk to dinner, catch a show, or just wander along the lake without needing to plan transportation. The staff knows the neighborhood well enough to give you actual recommendations, not just the obvious tourist spots. It’s the kind of hotel where you feel like you’re staying somewhere that matters in the city, not just passing through some generic tower that could be anywhere.

Best hotels in Chicago blend art deco lobbies, craft cocktail bars, and tasting menus of Midwestern harvests.

Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago Accommodations

Reviews of Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago

• Olga from Russia (9/10)

  I like the size of our room. It was very clean except windows. For the room with balcony it's important. I stayed on the 15th floor. I like the floorplan.
  I sent a message to the hotel team and they upgraded my room because of my birthday. It was very nice of them. The balcony was big and we enjoyed the view.

• Honorio from United States (9/10)

  Centrally located for all activities downtown

• Eudora from United States (9/10)

• Robyn from United States (7/10)

  Rooms were big, clean.

• Duncan from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Location and a good atmosphere within the hotel

• Sandy from United States (8/10)

  The location

• Niki from United States (9/10)

  Rooftop pool and hot tub
  Beautiful room, loved the sparkly floor

• B from United States (9/10)

  Location good for walking to Millennium Park. The facilities were generally great, very pretty design, outdoor deck and sitting area was lovely, outdoor pool and hot tub are a nice perk. Clean rooms, comfortable bed, good space layout in the room. Staff was friendly and professional. Good coffee in the room and nice complentary soap, lotion and shampoo that was not overly perfumed. We had a nice view of the Wrigley building peeking between other tall downtown buildings.

• Korey from United States (8/10)

  The room had a very nice view of Lakeshore East Park. And there was a steam room! It is hard to find a decent steam room these days.

• Kristine from Canada (8/10)

  Great location! Good room size and big bathtub. Outdoor pool is an added plus!

Facilities