The Blackstone, Autograph Collection

The Blackstone, Autograph Collection Overview

First Impressions

Walking into The Blackstone, Autograph Collection feels like stepping back into Chicago’s golden age — but with all the modern touches you actually want. This four-star beauty sits right on South Michigan Avenue, and honestly, the location alone makes it worth considering. The lobby has this old-school elegance that doesn’t feel stuffy, you know? Dark wood, marble details, and just enough vintage charm to remind you this place has been hosting guests since 1910.

Location & Neighborhood

Here’s what I love about staying here — you’re literally in the heart of Chicago without feeling overwhelmed by it. Grant Park is right across the street (perfect for morning runs or evening strolls), and you can walk to Millennium Park in about ten minutes. The Art Institute is practically next door, which is amazing if you’re into that sort of thing. What really sold me though was how easy it is to get around — the Red Line’s right there, and you can walk to most of the major downtown attractions. Couples seem to get this too, since they consistently rate the location super high.

The Room Experience

The rooms strike this nice balance between historic character and modern comfort. I mean, you’ll find original details like high ceilings and large windows, but the beds are actually comfortable and the Wi-Fi works properly. The room I stayed in had this great view of Grant Park — though honestly, even the city-facing rooms have their charm with all those classic Chicago buildings. The bathrooms are well-updated without losing that vintage feel, and there’s enough space to actually unpack your suitcase, which isn’t always a given in downtown hotels.

Dining & Amenities

The restaurant situation here is solid — Mercat a la Planxa serves up Spanish-inspired dishes that are way better than typical hotel food. Their breakfast isn’t included, but it’s worth splurging on at least once during your stay. The fitness center is small but functional, and there’s a business center if you need to print boarding passes or whatever. What I really appreciated was the 24-hour front desk staff — they actually know the neighborhood and can give you real recommendations, not just the touristy stuff.

Why Guests Love It

Look, this isn’t the newest or flashiest hotel in Chicago, but that’s sort of the point. It’s got character and a prime location that lets you experience the city like a local rather than just another tourist. The staff genuinely seems to care about your experience, and the building itself tells a story that newer properties just can’t match. Plus, with that location score of 9.4, you’re basically in the perfect spot to explore everything Chicago has to offer — from the lakefront to the Loop’s architecture to some of the best food in the country. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re part of the city’s story, not just passing through.

The Blackstone, Autograph Collection Accommodations

Reviews of The Blackstone, Autograph Collection

• Denis from Canada (9/10)

  location
  design
  rooms and view
  gym

• Eleonora from Italy (8/10)

  Everything

• Samantha from United States (7/10)

  The location was great and my room with a view was excellent! The housekeeping staff was very friendly and attentive. Much appreciated thank you!

• Sonia from United States (9/10)

  I liked how clean the place was. I also like that they hold your luggage so you can go explore before checkin or after checkout

• Griffith from United States (9/10)

  The Hotel was very beautiful! We were greeted the a little cocktail while we waited to get checked in. After a stressful drive into the city it was just what we needed!

• Tiffany from United States (8/10)

  Stayed here several times. Great location, comfortable beds, clean, and friendly staff.

• Julie from United States (8/10)

  Room was very spacious and comfortable. Walking distance to parks, lake, river and downtown.

• Thomassine from United States (9/10)

  Very clean, and good location. Central to everything!

• Ron from United States (8/10)

  Clean, comfortable, rooms were nice. A good stay overall.

• Susan from United States (9/10)

  Beautiful property. Lovely rooms with marble tiled bathrooms, luxe bedding, good scents and a tasty restaurant that serves Barcelona inspired dishes.

Facilities