There’s nothing more motivating for a weary business traveler than the promise of a late-afternoon massage. That was exactly the consolation that awaited me one May day in Chicago after an early flight and a full day of meetings: a visit to the Waldorf Astoria Spa & Health Club at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago.
Pulling up to the five-star property feels more like arriving at a private residence. Part of the building is residential, yet driving into the tucked-away courtyard, circling the fountain and reaching the canopied entrance set against a white stone façade feels exclusive and intimate—grand without being ostentatious.
The hotel offers 215 guestrooms and suites across 19 stories in Chicago’s tony Gold Coast neighborhood. The cozy, elegant atmosphere extends from the lobby—spacious but not overwhelming—to other areas like Bernard’s, the dimly lit, relaxing bar. Years before this visit, Bernard’s had been my first introduction to this luxury hotel, where I stopped for pre-dinner cocktails with a colleague.
Women’s relaxation lounge © WALDORF ASTORIA
On this visit I sought a reprieve and a few moments of calm in the spa, known for its excellent treatments, luxurious facilities and broad selection of services. Checking in for a Waldorf Signature 60-minute massage, I immediately noticed the spa’s atmosphere of quiet and calm. The large locker room was tranquil and empty. After changing into a comfortable robe, I relaxed for several minutes on a heated stone recliner near the sauna with a magazine.
A therapist later escorted me to a separate lounge with cushioned recliners arranged in a semi-circle. Green tea–infused water and a bowl of nuts made a perfect light refreshment as I finished an article and waited. The attentive, low-key presentation helped extend the feeling of being cared for without fuss.
Massages are just one option among the spa’s wide range of wellness offerings. Guests can choose facials, waxing, tinting, body treatments, manicures, pedicures and special-occasion makeup—most services are available in-room for hotel guests. One distinctive menu item is the Ashiatsu massage, offered in 60- or 90-minute sessions: a deep barefoot technique using overhead bars for balance that provides long, flowing compressions uncommon at many spas.
The spa also offers DREAMDRY services—blowouts and updos—cofounded by Rachel Zoe and Robin Moraetes. The Health Club features modern cardio and strength equipment but places strong emphasis on classes, including Pilates, Gyrotonics, Total Body Blast, kickboxing, aqua aerobics and Hydro-Tone. The indoor lap pool hosts water-based classes as well.
Elysian spa Jacuzzi © WALDORF ASTORIA
The 60-minute signature massage I received was blissful. Within minutes I drifted toward a semi-conscious state, relieved as tension eased from my shoulders after a day of travel and meetings. The therapist applied just the right pressure to work out knots caused by carrying a laptop and rolling a suitcase. Soft music, dimmed lights and a mild aromatic oil completed the calming experience, helping my overactive mind slow down and relax.
What defines the Signature massage is customization: therapists draw on a variety of techniques to meet each guest’s needs. Whether you want stress relief, targeted pain relief, or a general sense of calm, the treatment can be tailored to achieve the desired outcome.
Service often reveals the true quality of an experience, and the spa’s attention to detail was impressive. After my treatment I hurried to get ready for an evening appointment, and in the rush I left behind a precious item—my grandmother’s wedding ring. When I called later, staff had already located, labeled and securely stored the ring for me to retrieve the next day. Their prompt, careful response brought immediate relief and demonstrated the dependable level of service throughout my visit.
In short, both my treatment and the attentive staff left me feeling well cared for—secure and soothed by a truly luxurious spa experience.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago
11 E. Walton St.
Chicago, IL 60611
tel 312 646 1300
waldorfastoriachicago hotel.com