You’ve seen the photos. Those white, undulating concrete balconies that make the building look like a giant ripple in the Chicago skyline. It’s the Aqua Tower. But here’s the thing: most people just stand on the sidewalk in Lakeshore East, snap a selfie, and keep walking. They don't realize that the first 18 floors actually house the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, and honestly, staying there is a completely different experience than just looking at it.
Why the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Still Matters
Chicago is a city of "starchitects," but Jeanne Gang really did something different here. Most skyscrapers are cold, glass boxes. This one feels... organic. It’s inspired by the striated limestone outcroppings you find around the Great Lakes. Basically, it’s a giant rock formation made of glass and steel.
When you check into the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, you aren’t just getting a bed; you’re stepping into a piece of architectural history. It was the first Radisson Blu in the United States, and even years later, it hasn't lost its edge. The lobby alone is a mood. Think 50-foot-long fireplaces, reclaimed brick, and polished concrete. It pays homage to Chicago’s industrial roots without feeling like a dusty museum.
People often ask if the balconies are just for show. Nope. Every single one of those "ripples" is unique. They were designed to protect the building from the brutal Chicago wind and provide specific views of landmarks like "The Bean" or Lake Michigan. If you get a room with a balcony—which are considered upgrades, so keep that in mind—the perspective is wild. You’re literally standing on a piece of art.
The Rooftop Secret Nobody Talks About
Most guests head straight to Millennium Park. Fine. But you’re paying an "Urban Fee" (it’s usually around $30, though check for 2026 promos), so you might as well use what you’re paying for. The hotel shares an 80,000-square-foot recreation deck with the building's residents.
It’s massive.
We’re talking about a 1/5-mile running track, gardens, and gazebos right in the middle of the city. There is an indoor lap pool for the serious swimmers and a seasonal outdoor pool with fire pits and cabanas. If you've ever wanted to play basketball while surrounded by skyscrapers, they have an indoor court for that too. It’s easily one of the best fitness setups in any Chicago hotel, period.
Room Styles: "Naturally Cool" vs. "Mansion House"
The rooms here aren't "cookie-cutter." They generally fall into two design vibes.
- Naturally Cool: This is very Scandinavian. Light wood, pale neutrals, airy. It feels like a high-end version of something you'd see in Stockholm.
- Mansion House: This is the moody sibling. Dark wood, clubby atmosphere, more "Executive."
The floor-to-ceiling windows are the real MVP here. Even the standard rooms feel huge because of the light. But a quick tip: the bathrooms can be a bit "minimalist." The walk-in showers are great, but sink counter space is a little tight if you’re traveling with a lot of toiletries.
Eating at Filini (And Where Else to Go)
The on-site restaurant, Filini, is Italian. It’s unpretentious but looks expensive. The bar has these cool LED lights embedded in the tables and a pretty legendary cocktail list. If you’re there for dinner, the handmade pastas are the move.
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However, don't feel trapped. You’re in Lakeshore East. You can walk to the Chicago Riverwalk in five minutes. You’re also right near the Village Market, which is great for grabbing snacks or a quick bottle of wine to enjoy on your balcony while the city lights up.
What to Know Before You Book
Let's talk logistics. This is a 4-star property, and the pricing reflects that.
- Parking: It’s Chicago. It’s expensive. Valet is usually around $80 a night with in/out privileges. Self-parking is slightly cheaper but still hurts.
- Pet Policy: They are surprisingly pet-friendly. They often allow two pets up to 60 lbs, sometimes even for free depending on the package.
- Location: You are tucked away. It’s quiet, which is rare for downtown. But it’s a bit of a trek if you’re trying to hit the deep parts of the West Loop every night.
The Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel isn't just for business travelers, though they definitely cater to them with 28,000 square feet of meeting space. It’s for anyone who actually likes design. It's for the person who wants to wake up and see the lake through a wall of glass and then go for a run on a rooftop.
Actionable Insights for Your Stay
If you are planning a visit, do these three things to maximize the value. First, call ahead and ask for a room on a higher floor with a balcony. The view of Millennium Park from the 15th floor is significantly better than the 4th. Second, budget for the Urban Fee. It covers the gym and pool access, and since these are world-class facilities, don't let them go to waste. Finally, take the architectural river cruise. It docks just a few blocks away, and seeing the Aqua Tower from the water gives you a whole new appreciation for the room you’re sleeping in.
Check for "Pick-a-Perk" promotions or "Urban Fee Waived" deals which the hotel frequently runs during the off-season (usually through April). These can save you roughly $30 a day, which basically pays for your first round of drinks at the Filini bar.