Arrival/Check-In: The moment you enter the historic Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel you sense its storied past — from the black-and-white checkered floor and dark wood paneling to the signature gold couch and art installation behind the reception desk. Opened on April 16, 1910, the hotel quickly became a favorite of movie stars and U.S. presidents. After closing in 1991 and a later restoration, it reopened following a $128 million renovation, preserving many of its historic touches. Two reception desks sit to the left of the entrance, and check-in was completed quickly before I headed up to my room.
Guest Quarters: My deluxe room featured striking views of Lake Michigan and Grant Park. The contemporary décor uses bold accents — bursts of red in the pillows and carpeting, and soft yellow tones in the walls and artwork — that complement classic architectural details. A short entry hallway led to the bathroom on the left, appointed with black-and-white paisley wallpaper, marble countertops and a strong shower, though the lighting was slightly dim for detailed grooming. The bedroom offered a king-sized bed dressed in a plush white duvet, with layered bedside storage on one side and a tall decorative shelving unit on the other. Two pendant lights hang above the nightstands, and opposite the bed sits a desk-bureau combination with a flat-screen television mounted above. The room’s footprint is modest, but the thoughtful layout and design make it feel comfortably spacious and functional.
Services and Amenities: A standout on the property is Mercat a la Planxa, the on-site restaurant operated by Iron Chef Jose Garces. I enjoyed a multicourse dinner on the porch overlooking the park and lake; the bacon-wrapped figs with a fondue-style dipping sauce were a memorable small plate. Mercat a la Planxa also serves breakfast and lunch, and a Starbucks is available for additional breakfast and casual dining options. Room service operates from early morning through late evening, providing flexibility for guests.
The hotel also offers extensive event facilities, totaling 11,396 square feet. Nine distinct event rooms include the Spertus Crown Family Great Hall and various Crystal Ball rooms, with ballrooms and gathering spaces that showcase impressive views and classic details suitable for weddings, conferences and special events.
The Experience: The Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel pairs modern comforts with a strong sense of history. Its prime location on Michigan Avenue places guests within easy reach of the lakefront and downtown attractions, while the hotel’s architecture, public art and design details invite exploration. Whether you stay for the vistas, the dining or the historic ambiance, the property delivers a polished, character-rich experience.
GT CHECKLIST
- Doorman/valet
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Separate tub and shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- High-quality bed linens
- Large, flat-screen television
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Large, complimentary laptop safe
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Complimentary bottled water
- Stocked minibar
- Ample lighting
- In-room coffeemaker
- Iron and ironing board
- On-site restaurant and bar
- 24-hour room service
- 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center
- Turn-down service
Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel
636 S. Michigan Ave.
(lobby entrance on E. Balbo Avenue)
Chicago, IL 60605
tel 312 447 0955
marriott.com