Chicago Athletic Association: What to Expect
It’s no secret that I happen to love Chicago as a city. It’s the place I hide away to when I want to see great art, admire architecture, and eat incredible food. This city is one of the reasons I started staying in different properties each time I travel—because I discovered how much more you can see and feel of a place when you plant yourself in different neighborhoods.
The Chicago Athletic Association is a very unique property that’s now available to members through the World of Hyatt program. I stayed here for a couple of nights with the intent to be close to the Art Institute and that part of the city. It turned out to be extremely cold during my December stay, so I didn’t explore quite as far as I would have if the sun had been out. But honestly, I didn’t mind. I always enjoy the opportunity to stay in and appreciate a beautiful room.
What’s Great About the Chicago Athletic Association
Walkable location
It puts you so close to so many of Chicago’s iconic sights, including the Cloud Gate sculpture (aka “The Bean”), the Art Institute, Millennium Park, and Lurie Garden. The location is ideal if you want to do your exploring on foot. Being central means you can easily drop into galleries, pop into cafes, or return to the room to warm up without needing transport.
Rooftop
The views from Cindy’s Rooftop are unbeatable. The restaurant and bar overlook Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, and it’s just as popular with locals as it is with guests. You can get drinks or dinner there, but I’d recommend making a reservation—especially on weekends or during events. If you can’t snag a table, it’s still worth heading up for the view.
The architecture
It’s an unusual and older-style building that has so much character. Originally built in 1893 as a private men's athletic club, the property retains many of its historic details—ornate woodwork, mosaic tile floors, and stained glass—while also feeling modern and comfortable. The rooms feel like they’re from another era, in the best way. They’ve done a good job of preserving the original charm while updating the amenities to be practical for today’s traveler.
A Few Helpful Tips Before You Stay at the Chicago Athletic Association
The front of the hotel is on a major thoroughfare (Michigan Avenue), and it might be tricky for your taxi or Uber to stop directly at the entrance. You might need to be dropped off or picked up from the side street next to the hotel (Madison Street).
To get to the rooms, you’ll need to walk through a games parlor that feels like something out of a university bar—think shuffleboard, billiards, and dim lighting. It was a little unexpected for me because I usually prefer my hotel stays to feel more private, but it ended up being part of the charm. It’s a social, lively energy that’s unique to this property.
The elevators are on the slower side. They’re charmingly vintage, so they fit the aesthetic. But if you're in a rush, it's good to plan for a little extra time going up or down.
Rooms facing Michigan Avenue can get street noise, especially on weekends or during parades and events. If you’re a light sleeper, you might prefer a room facing the inner courtyard.
Is There Room Service at the Chicago Athletic Association?
Yes, and it’s very unique. In addition to a solid in-room dining menu that pulls from Cindy’s Rooftop, one of the coolest things is that you can order Shake Shack to your room like room service. It’s part of the hotel building and integrated into their dining offerings. I’ve never seen another hotel do this, and it’s such a fun novelty. If you’re craving burgers or shakes and don’t want to leave your room, it’s the perfect indulgence.
Is There a Globalist Breakfast at the Chicago Athletic Association?
Yes—when I checked in, I was told my Globalist benefit came with a breakfast credit of up to $100. I made the most of it with a slow morning, ordering several types of tea and a hot meal while journaling in the cozy breakfast area. The setting feels like an old study or library with leather chairs and soft lighting. On a winter day, it’s a particularly lovely place to linger.
What Is the Gym Like at the Chicago Athletic Association?
You would expect a property called the Chicago Athletic Association to have a great gym—and it does! The fitness space matches the old-school charm of the rest of the hotel, but it’s equipped with modern gear: treadmills, free weights, machines, and open space for stretching or yoga.
Why Stay at the Chicago Athletic Association?
This hotel is ideal if you want more than just a place to sleep—it’s for travelers who appreciate thoughtful design, a sense of place, and a story behind where they stay. The Chicago Athletic Association manages to feel both historic and trendy, upscale but not pretentious.
You’re close to everything, the rooms are cozy and full of character, and the atmosphere is anything but generic. Whether you’re in town for art, food, or just to explore the city, this hotel puts you in the heart of it all—with just enough quirks to make it memorable.