Chicago, IL is a city of distinct seasons. In the summer, the lakefront comes alive, and there is nothing better than lounging by an outdoor pool overlooking the skyscrapers. In the winter, when the biting wind-chill sweeps off Lake Michigan and sweeps through the canyon-like streets of the Loop, coming back to a heated indoor pool or a warm steam room is the ultimate luxury. Whether you are traveling for business, a family weekend getaway, or seeking the best hotels with a pool near me Chicago has to offer, having access to a high-quality pool can make or break your trip.
But finding the right pool in Chicago's downtown area requires knowing the layout. Some hotels feature historic, architectural indoor pools, while others offer sprawling, modern outdoor rooftop decks with cabanas and fire pits. To help you choose the perfect property, we have selected five outstanding hotels in Downtown Chicago that offer the best pool experiences, from architectural landmarks to luxury 19th-floor sky pools.
Top 5 Best Hotels in Downtown Chicago With Pool
1. Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel — Lakeshore East, Chicago
Located at 225 N Columbus Dr in the quiet, residential neighborhood of Lakeshore East, the Radisson Blu Aqua sits inside the iconic Aqua tower, designed by architect Jeanne Gang. What makes this hotel stand out is its massive, 80,000-square-foot outdoor recreation deck. It features a heated junior Olympic-sized outdoor pool, a hot tub, a wading pool, fire pits, cabanas, and even a dedicated running track, all surrounded by views of the surrounding skyscrapers. They also have an indoor lap pool for year-round swimming.
Why you should go: The Radisson Blu Aqua offers the absolute best outdoor pool deck in Chicago, combining resort-style amenities with a stunning architectural setting.
2. InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile — Magnificent Mile, Chicago
Located right on the Mag Mile at 505 N Michigan Ave, the InterContinental is famous for its historic "Junior Olympic" indoor pool. Built in 1929 as part of the Medinah Athletic Club, this is one of the oldest and most beautiful swimming pools in the country. The pool room features ornate, hand-painted Spanish tiles, a grand stone fireplace, stained-glass windows, and a classic viewing gallery.
Why you should go: The InterContinental pool is a historic masterpiece, offering a unique opportunity to swim in a beautifully preserved 1920s athletic club setting.
3. The Langham, Chicago — River North, Chicago
Situated at 330 N Wabash Ave in a sleek Mies van der Rohe-designed skyscraper along the Chicago River, The Langham is the pinnacle of luxury. The hotel's 67-foot indoor swimming pool is located next to their award-winning Chuan Spa. The pool room features a glowing, backlit ceiling, comfortable lounge chairs, a hot tub, and a heated aromatherapy cabin. It is designed to feel like a tranquil sanctuary away from the busy River North streets.
Why you should go: The Langham offers the most peaceful, luxurious, and spa-like indoor pool experience in Chicago, perfect for couples and business travelers looking to unwind.
4. Loews Chicago Hotel — Streeterville, Chicago
Located at 455 N Park Dr in Streeterville, just a short walk from Navy Pier and the Chicago Riverwalk, the Loews Chicago is a highly modern, family-friendly hotel. The property features a clean, bright, 75-foot indoor lap pool situated on the third floor. The pool area has large floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light, comfortable seating, and dedicated family swim hours.
Why you should go: Loews Chicago is an excellent, modern, family-friendly choice with a large, clean lap pool located close to Navy Pier and downtown attractions.
5. The Peninsula Chicago — Magnificent Mile, Chicago
Hidden at 108 E Superior St just steps from the historic Water Tower, The Peninsula Chicago is a world-class luxury hotel. The hotel's half-Olympic indoor pool is located on the 19th floor, featuring 20-foot floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of the Magnificent Mile skyline and Lake Michigan. The pool deck is flanked by an outdoor sun terrace where guests can dine or lounge during the summer.
Why you should go: The Peninsula pool offers the best skyline views of any pool in the city, combined with impeccable, five-star service.
Insider Tip: If you swim at the InterContinental’s historic pool, take a moment to look at the plaque near the entrance. The pool was designed by engineering legend Walter Alschlager and was once used by Johnny Weissmuller (the Olympic gold medalist who played Tarzan) for training.
How to Find the Best Hotels with a Pool in Chicago Near You
Before booking your stay, keep these local tips in mind:
- Verify Pool Accessibility: Some historic boutique hotels in the Loop do not have pools at all due to building restrictions. Always confirm the pool is active and not closed for private events.
- Factor in the Weather: If you are visiting between October and May, an outdoor pool is useless. Focus entirely on hotels with heated indoor pools (like The Langham or The Peninsula) during the colder months.
- Check the Amenity Fee: Some downtown hotels charge a daily "destination fee" or "resort fee" that covers pool and gym access. Make sure you read the fine print before booking.
- Look for Lifeguards: If you are traveling with young children, check if the hotel pool is staffed by a certified lifeguard, or if it operates on a "swim at your own risk" basis.
Average Nightly Rates for Chicago Hotels with Pool
Room rates in downtown Chicago fluctuate significantly based on seasonality, conventions, and summer tourism. Here are typical average rates:
| Hotel Category | Average Nightly Rate (Off-Peak: Jan-Mar) | Average Nightly Rate (Peak: Jun-Aug) |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Business (e.g. Radisson Blu) | $140 – $180 | $280 – $360 |
| Luxury Historic (e.g. InterContinental) | $160 – $220 | $320 – $420 |
| Ultra-Luxury Sky Pool (e.g. The Peninsula) | $450 – $600 | $750 – $950+ |
Final Thoughts
A great pool transforms your stay from a simple overnight visit into a relaxing, luxurious retreat. Whether you are swimming laps under the historic Spanish tiles of the InterContinental on Michigan Ave or looking out at the skyline from the 19th floor of The Peninsula, Chicago offers some of the best hotel pool experiences in the country. Find your perfect downtown stay near me and enjoy a relaxing dip in the Windy City.
