The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel
A Jazz Age gem on Michigan Avenue
There’s a wonderful sense of place and history at The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel, housed in a 1929 building that fronts Chicago’s iconic Michigan Avenue. The Gwen aims to incorporate the artistry and history of its location with period-specific details that lend the contemporary interiors a decidedly Jazz Age edge.
Named after Gwen Lux, a pioneering female sculptor of the 1920s, the hotel was added to the Luxury Collection's group of character-filled hotels. As you enter the fifth-floor lobby, you’re greeted by rich Art Deco touches and an impressive display of works and artifacts by the hotel’s namesake.
While there is a focus on the heritage of the building, the guest offerings are thoroughly modern and include an American restaurant, an intimate see-and-be-seen bar, a large outdoor terrace and a fitness center.
Named after Gwen Lux, a pioneering female sculptor of the 1920s, the hotel was added to the Luxury Collection's group of character-filled hotels. As you enter the fifth-floor lobby, you’re greeted by rich Art Deco touches and an impressive display of works and artifacts by the hotel’s namesake.
While there is a focus on the heritage of the building, the guest offerings are thoroughly modern and include an American restaurant, an intimate see-and-be-seen bar, a large outdoor terrace and a fitness center.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- The lobby features a sleek, Art Deco–inspired design defined by bold geometric patterns, rich custom furnishings, metallic accents and plush seating areas that create a refined yet inviting atmosphere.
- Each guest room and suite epitomizes the glamour of 1930s Chicago, seamlessly blended with the elegance of contemporary design.
- Upstairs at The Gwen is the hotel’s signature lounge, bar and rooftop terrace overlooking Michigan Avenue, blending refined Art Deco design with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Offering handcrafted cocktails, seasonal bites and sweeping city views, it’s an elevated yet approachable destination for gathering, celebrating, and unwinding above the city.
- The hotel offers pet-friendly accommodations for dogs up to 40 pounds, ensuring furry companions are welcomed with the same thoughtful comfort and care as their owners.
- Head outside and enjoy being in the heart of the city with shops, restaurants, museums and more within easy walking distance.
Things to Know
- The lobby itself has a delightful signature scent, “Lemongrass and Sage,” that greets you as you exit the entry elevator.
- The fitness center is an intimate space with chilled towels, fruit, water and a special purifier so those working out can breathe in clean, fresh air.
- Shoppers will adore The Gwen’s proximity to The Shops at North Bridge, a luxury shopping center (Nordstrom, Kiehl’s, Hugo Boss) connected to the boutique hotel — a huge plus in Chicago’s inclement winters.
- When the weather is pleasant, head outside and enjoy being in the heart of the city with shops, restaurants, museums and more within easy walking distance.
The Rooms
- Rooms have large picture windows, and many of them boast views of the iconic Magnificent Mile and Lake Michigan.
- Bathrooms are clad in marble and have separate soaking tubs and toilets.
- If you’re looking to really soak in Chicago’s splendid architecture, book one of the six suites that have a large outdoor terrace (a rarity in this city). Perched from here, you’ll see the intricate work of the building’s original façade, plus a slew of other Windy City landmark buildings.
The Restaurants
- Upstairs at The Gwen serves hand-crafted cocktails (Creole Maple Old Fashioned, anyone?) and elevated American bites.
- The Terrace is a lovely outdoor space to grab a bespoke cocktail and relax on chic-but-comfortable seating available all year round, with curling available during the colder months.
Getting There
521 North Rush Street, Chicago, Illinois 60611
TEL312-645-1500
TEL312-645-1500
NEARBY AIRPORT(S)
ORD (20-28 min)
