While there’s certainly much to do in and around downtown and near Millennium Park, our Chicago Loop hotel on Michigan Avenue is practically a world unto itself. A collection of dining establishments. A fitness center. Sweeping views to Lake Michigan’s blue horizon. Secrets hidden among the trophy and book cases. And small surprises waiting to be discovered throughout.
We’ve collected most of the basic Q&A’s below. Please feel free to contact us if you have additional questions that we haven’t answered yet.
You may check into your room beginning at 4:00pm and we respectfully ask that you check out by Noon to allow time for us to prepare for our next guests.
Gotcha! It’s true, the original Chicago Athletic Association was once known for its deep roster of swimmers—including a five-time Olympic gold medalist with a couple of aliases, Johnny Weissmuller and Tarzan—but today our focus is on (mostly) fully clothed fun and games.
Originally called “The Tank” by club members, the pool has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind Chicago event space ideal for creative public and private gatherings. In fact, the room behind the hotel’s grand staircase near Shake Shack now sports a mosaic tile floor, complete with swimming lanes and “Shallow” and “Deep” markers.
While we do not operate a spa on the property, we do offer in-room spa services through a carefully curated list of preferred providers. Please contact guest services to arrange spa services in the comfort and privacy of your room.
Certainly. And we thank you for sharing the Chicago Athletic Association experience with your friends and loved ones. Please contact the hotel directly at 312-940-3552 for more information.
Yes. Guests have access to a fitness center featuring cardio and strength-training equipment. There is also a vintage basketball court on property!
We gladly provide high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi for registered guests to use throughout the hotel.
You’re welcome to take snapshots of your visit with us! Please note that all professional photography or staged shoots (from weddings & events to senior photos & commercial needs) require a permit obtained from our marketing department in advance, and fees may apply. The team can be reached at press@chicagoathletichotel.com.
We are happy to accept packages on behalf of our guests, and fees may apply. Please contact Guest Services for specific information based on your needs.
As stewards of our landmark building, we are committed to maintaining a smoke-free environment throughout Chicago Athletic Association. Smoking and vaping are not permitted in guest rooms or indoor public areas.
In order to protect our historic interiors and ensure a safe, welcoming experience for all, open flames including candles are not permitted.
A cleaning and restoration fee will apply in the event of a violation.
The Destination Fee supports access to a collection of guest amenities and services. Included offerings may change periodically. Guests should review the most current details when booking.
In order to protect our historic interiors and ensure a safe, welcoming experience for all, open flames including candles are not permitted.
A cleaning and restoration fee will apply in the event of a violation.
Yes. Luggage storage is available for guests arriving before check-in or departing after check-out.
You got it, kid. You’re gonna have to be at least 21 years old to check into the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel.
Yes. Children are welcome throughout the hotel, subject to venue-specific policies.
A temporary authorization of $100 per night will be placed on your card at check-in to cover any incidental charges incurred during your stay. This is not a charge. If no incidentals are posted to your room, the hold will be released by your bank, typically within 5–10 business days after checkout.
Pet Requirements:
Pets can be featherweights or heavyweights—but please no more than two pets per room.
Guests with pets must sign an animal waiver form upon check-in.
Service animals are exempt from restrictions.
Pet Restrictions:
By law, pets are not allowed inside our restaurants and bars—but your pets are allowed to congregate and entertain in lobby areas and relax on the floor of your guest room.
By law, pets must be on leash at all times in public spaces—we can’t have our buddies wandering into traffic or getting lost.
We’re proud of our clean Chicago sidewalks, so please be a good citizen and do not use the sidewalks outside the hotel as dog runs or potty areas. Please see the doorman for a place for your pooch to potty.
Room sizes vary by category. Some accommodations prioritize historic charm and thoughtful design over oversized layouts. Guests seeking additional space may wish to reserve a Junior Suite, Suite, or larger room category.
Some guestrooms feature views of Millennium Park and the downtown Chicago skyline. Guests who prefer these views are encouraged to reserve this room category in advance, as availability is limited and requests cannot always be accommodated.
The hotel is located in a vibrant downtown setting. Interior-facing rooms typically offer the quietest experience, while park-facing rooms provide iconic city views.
Valet parking is available 24/7 at 71 E Madison for $84.00 per night, per vehicle with unlimited in and out privileges.
Guests visiting any of our food and beverage outlets may take advantage of discounted parking at 71 E. Madison Street, with validation available for up to four hours at a rate of $29.
Most visitors find a car unnecessary due to the hotel’s central location and proximity to public transportation, attractions, restaurants, and entertainment.
With so many ways to get around Chicagoland, we do not maintain a hotel shuttle service and recommend a taxi, Chicago’s fine public transportation system or the Go Airport Express shuttle service.
From O’Hare: A taxi to or from O’Hare runs $35-$55, depending on traffic, and can take anywhere from 35 minutes to 1.5 hours.
From Midway: A taxi to or from Midway is about $30-$45, depending on traffic, and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
From O’Hare: Hop on the Blue Line train heading toward Forest Park and hop off at the Washington stop in the Chicago Loop. It’s easy and you’ll get to know Chicago a little more like a local. Back on street level, head east on Washington three blocks toward Millennium Park. You’ll pass under the “L” and then make a right on Michigan Avenue across from the park where you’ll see the beautiful steel and glass awning above the hotel entrance just past Madison Avenue. Welcome!
From Midway: Take the Orange Line train towards the Loop and get off at the Washington/Wabash stop. You will proceed one block east on Madison towards Michigan Avenue. The hotel’s Madison entrance is on 71 E. Madison or turn the corner and enter our Michigan Ave doors at 12 S. Michigan.
Complimentary Heritage Bicycles are available Spring and Summer (weather permitting, we may bring them out earlier or keep them longer). Please ask our front desk or concierge team to reserve.
Yes. The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Chicago directly across from Millennium Park, making it easy to walk to many of the city’s most popular attractions. Guests can reach The Bean, Maggie Daley Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, State Street shopping, the Chicago Riverwalk, and numerous restaurants within minutes.
Many guests choose Chicago Athletic Association because of its historic architecture, central location, unique dining venues, rooftop experiences, and proximity to Chicago’s top attractions.
Chicago Athletic Association is located directly across the street from Millennium Park. Most park attractions, including Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), are less than a five-minute walk from the hotel.
Chicago Athletic Association is located a scenic fifteen-minute walk to Grant Park and the Buckingham Fountain
Chicago Athletic Association is located a short ten-minute walk the city’s theater district.
Midōsuji is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dining experience. It’s an ideal stop before a show in Chicago’s theater district, while waiting for a table at The Ives, or as a destination in its own right. Enjoy a few small plates and drinks before a night out, or settle in for a relaxed evening exploring the menu at your own pace.
Cindy’s is one of Chicago’s most popular rooftop restaurants and bars, offering panoramic views of Millennium Park, Lake Michigan, and the downtown skyline.
Reservations are highly recommended, particularly on weekends, during summer months, and around major Chicago events.
Hotel guests may receive certain access advantages depending on occupancy levels and operational policies. Guests are encouraged to contact the hotel before arrival for the latest information regarding rooftop reservations and availability.
Yes. Cindy’s operates year-round, though menus, seating arrangements, and hours may vary by season and weather conditions.
Yes. Chicago Athletic Association regularly hosts a rotating calendar of public events that celebrate Chicago’s creative community. From art exhibitions and vintage markets to wellness classes, workshops, live performances and cultural experiences, there’s always something happening throughout the hotel. Browse our Events Calendar to see what’s coming up during your visit.
Absolutely. Many of our events are open to both hotel guests and locals, making Chicago Athletic Association a gathering place for Chicago’s creative, culinary and cultural communities. Some experiences are complimentary, while others may require advance registration or tickets.
No two weeks are exactly alike. Throughout the year you’ll find art exhibitions, author talks, live music, fitness classes, creative workshops, vintage markets, seasonal celebrations and unique culinary experiences. Our programming is designed to surprise, inspire and give guests an immersive, culturally rich Chicago experience.
Yes, we offer accessible rooms with roll-in showers and handlebars. To reserve an accessible room, just let us know when booking your room online or via phone at 312-940-3552.
At the Chicago Athletic Association, we are committed to providing equal access and opportunity for individuals with all levels of ability. The features below make our hotel and restaurants more accessible for individuals with changing abilities to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience. Our overall goal is to improve usability throughout the hotel for all guests.
Accessible hotel areas from accessible public entrance:
Accessible amenities:
Yes. Chicago Athletic Association participates in World of Hyatt as part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.
Eligible guests can earn and redeem World of Hyatt points according to current program terms and conditions.
Eligible World of Hyatt elite members may receive benefits based on membership tier, availability, and program guidelines.
