The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago

Hotels
Luxury Collection
9.6 (491 reviews)
521 North Rush Street , Chicago , us

Children allowed
Pets allowed

Facilities

Fitness facilities
WiFi available
Parking
Non-smoking rooms
Air conditioning
Fitness center
24-hour front desk
Restaurant
Room service
Business center
See all facilities

Review Highlights

Pros:
Exceptional service
Great location
Clean and spacious rooms
Cons:
Lack of in-room coffee machine
No 'do not disturb' signs available

Categories

Cleanliness
9.49
Rooms are described as cozy and clean, with a focus on cleanliness.
Service
10
Multiple reviews highlight exceptional service from staff members, notably Judie and Meredith.
Location
9.96
Located in the heart of everything, with a convenient position near attractions.
Room Quality
9.5
Spacious rooms with big bathrooms noted positively.
Amenities
8.45
While amenities like welcome cookies and free water are mentioned, the lack of in-room coffee machine affects the score.
Value for Money
9.48
Overall great experience justifies that the hotel provides good value for the money spent.
Food and Beverage
9.94
High praise for food quality and presentation noted, especially from high tea experiences.
Overall Experience
9.99
Guests consistently rate their experiences as great, with many indicating they would return.
* This sentiment is summarized by AI based on user reviews.
Updated at: 2026-01-16 00:46

Property Description

Luxurious Accommodations
The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago, offers rooms with custom décor inspired by signature sculptures, 65-inch flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi. Each room also includes a fully-stocked minibar and luxury bath amenities for a comfortable stay.

Culinary Delights
Guests can enjoy a unique dining experience at Circa Restaurant And Lounge, offering American fare for all meals. The rooftop terrace, Upstairs at the Gwen, provides panoramic city views and custom cocktails, perfect for a relaxing evening.

Fitness and Business Facilities
The hotel boasts a state-of-the-art fitness centre with a variety of equipment and yoga facilities. Additionally, the fully-equipped 24-hour business centre caters to all business needs, ensuring a productive stay.

Experience luxury and convenience at The Gwen - book your stay now to indulge in the best of Chicago's offerings.

Important information:

Upon check-in photo identification and credit card is required. All special requests are subject to availability upon check-in. Special requests cannot be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.

Please be advised a deposit may be charged for incidentals upon arrival. Additional guests may incur extra charges (see hotel policies).Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.
A deposit may be required at the property.

Check-in and check-out hours:
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Airport code: ORD

Property Policies

  • Pets

    Pets are allowed. Charges may be applicable.

  • Groups

    When booking more than 9 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

  • Children and extra bed policy

    Children of any age are allowed.
    Children up to and including 3 years old stay for free when using an available cot.
    Children up to and including 17 years old stay for free when using an existing bed.
    You haven't added any extra beds.
    Any type of extra bed or child's cot/crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by management.

  • Parking

    Private parking is possible on site (reservation is not possible) and costs USD 75 per day.

  • Internet

    WiFi is available in the hotel rooms and costs USD 19.95 per 24 hours.

Location

Guest Reviews

9.6
Based on 491 reviews
Cleanliness: 9.49
Service: 10
Location: 9.96
Room Quality: 9.5
Amenities: 8.45
Value for Money: 9.48
Food and Beverage: 9.94
Overall Experience: 9.99
N
N2278HKerinm Family United States
10
Highly recommend the Gwen!
Pros:

We had an incredible experience at the Gwen! Luigi went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable!

2026-06-27 via Tripadvisor
J
jenniferqS4923KQ Solo travel
10
SummerTime Fun
Pros:

Had the best dining experience the other night at the Gwen Upstairs!!
The host, Judie, could not have been more pleasant and professional!! Claudia, the bartender, was super kind and proffessional as well. Cecil, the Manager, came over and introdced himself. Great staff, customer service and excellent food!! Thank you to all who made the evening so enjoyable!!

2026-06-27 via Tripadvisor
A
A6732JZmichaels Couples
10
Lovely stay!
Pros:

Loved this hotel! All the accommodations were top notch. Centrally located. The “Upstairs at the Gwen” bar was great. Judie was especially lovely. She helped us feel welcome and answered all our questions. Her bright hospitality was a highlight of our stay!

2026-06-25 via Tripadvisor
9
963shadmans Couples
10
The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel Chicago – A Romantic Honeymoon Paradise for Couples ❤️
Pros:

The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago - A Perfect Honeymoon Retreat for Couples

Located at 521 North Rush Street in Chicago, Illinois, The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, offers an unforgettable experience for couples seeking romance, luxury, and special moments together. Whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply planning a romantic getaway, this elegant hotel provides the perfect setting for love to flourish.

The world of love can be exciting and beautiful. Everyone dreams of finding true love and making meaningful memories with that special someone. For many couples, traveling together and staying at a luxury hotel is the most enjoyable way to celebrate their relationship. The Gwen creates an environment where romance, peace, and happiness come together.

As soon as couples arrive, they are greeted with stylish decor, sophisticated ambiance, and a warm welcome. The hotel’s luxurious rooms and suites offer comfortable accommodations that help guests relax and enjoy quality time together. Soft bedding, elegant furnishings, and stunning views of downtown Chicago create a romantic setting ideal for newlyweds and couples.

Honeymooners especially appreciate the property’s intimate atmosphere. The Gwen provides an escape from everyday life, allowing partners to focus on each other while enjoying premium amenities and personalized service. Romantic evenings can be spent exploring nearby attractions, dining at fine restaurants, or simply enjoying each other’s company in a beautiful setting.

Love is more than romance. It is built on trust, understanding, support, and companionship. Happy couples strengthen their bond through shared experiences and memorable adventures. A stay at The Gwen allows couples to create special memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s enjoying a leisurely morning together, taking photos around the city, or sharing a quiet dinner, every moment becomes more meaningful.

Chicago offers countless attractions for couples to explore. From shopping along Michigan Avenue to visiting iconic landmarks and enjoying beautiful views of the city, there’s always something exciting to experience together. After a day of exploring, couples can return to the comfort and luxury of The Gwen to unwind and relax.

Many travelers choose hotels specifically designed to provide comfort, privacy, and romance. The Gwen stands out as a great choice for couples due to its beautiful setting and exceptional guest experience. The hotel is especially well-suited for honeymoons, anniversaries, romantic getaways, and special occasions where love takes center stage.

Couples often value a peaceful environment where they can spend uninterrupted time together. The Gwen provides that balance of luxury, convenience, and intimacy. Every detail contributes to a memorable stay, helping guests celebrate their relationship in style.

For travelers deciding between family, business, or couples-oriented accommodations, The Gwen is best rated as a couples hotel. While families and business travelers can certainly enjoy the property, its luxurious atmosphere, romantic setting, and high-end amenities make it especially appealing to couples seeking a memorable experience.

Best Uses: Couples
Category: Premier Couples Hotel
Best for: Honeymoon, Romantic Getaway, Anniversary Celebration, Couples Getaway

At The Gwen, love stories continue to grow, beautiful memories are created, and every stay becomes a cherished chapter in a couple’s journey together.

Love shines softly in your eyes,
You fill my day with warmth and light.
Hand in hand we walk as one
Under the moon and the sun together.

Your gentle smile brings me joy,
There can be no sweeter gift.
In every season, near or far,
You are my desire, my guiding star.
With every heartbeat, love will grow
More beautiful than words can show.
Together forever, whatever may be,
My heart is yours with every passing day.
Note.
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Book premium tours, VIP airport transfers, and luxury car or van transportation for a seamless travel experience.
Rental options are also available, offering comfort, convenience, and professional service throughout your journey.

For current options and pricing, visit:
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2026-06-25 via Tripadvisor
A
A7793MRra Business
10
Best restaurant service
Pros:

Meredith literally made my stay!
The first day I came to the lobby restaurant for lunch and got a last minute call that made have to take my lunch with me. She immediately offered to box it, had it done in one minute with separate boxes for the fish and the salad, and all the extras separate.
The next morning I came down for breakfast and was trying to decide what to order and she patiently explained what came in each plate, asked me for my preferences and asked me if I needed to rush the order (she remembered me from the prior rushed day!)
It came right away and again, with the best service I’ve had at a hotel. 5 stars!

2026-06-24 via Tripadvisor
3
345mikeem Friends getaway
10
Tipsy tea experience
Pros:

Everyone was very friendly and the food and service were really good as well.

2026-06-20 via Tripadvisor
J
josiemE3325PY Business
10
Highly suggest The Gwen for Corporate Events - Sales Manager is amazing!
Pros:

I would just like to mention my sales contact at The Gwen, Katherine Ramos. We had our host hotel for a leadership meeting sell out their hotel without contacting me and I was desperate to put 6 employees traveling from all over the US into a close hotel so they had a room and Katherine went out of her way to help me get them rooms and was the most helpful hotel sales person I have ever dealt with so our next meeting is going to be held at The Gwen, not only a beautiful hotel but great employees to make meeting seamless so I highly recommend this hotel for large events or a beautiful place to stay while visiting Chicago.

2026-06-19 via Tripadvisor
A
ARD1988 Business Glendale, California
10
Great Experience at the Gwen
Pros:

I came for a work trip, and it was only my second time in Chicago, but my stay at The Gwen was excellent. It is not only a beautiful hotel with nice architecture and great, spacious rooms as well as a nice restaurant, but the real winner is the outdoor patio area, which thankfully given some magnificent weather the week I was there, made for a very pleasant time both during daytime and evenings for drinks.

I personally want to thank Russell at the concierge, who proactively reached out to me asking if I needed assistance with anything and went ahead and gave me a very helpful, detailed rundown of restaurants and amenities in the area. He was incredibly gracious and helpful.

I certainly would consider staying again at the Gwen when I am back in Chicago.

2026-06-14 via Tripadvisor
J
joseb301 Business
10
Love it at The Terrace
Pros:

Great food and ambience.

Judie and Holly I can't thank you enough! We have a group of around 18-20 people and they helped us acomodate everyone and get everyone served. As I write this review we're still having a great time!

2026-06-11 via Tripadvisor
S
StaceyLynn2021 Friends getaway Chicago, Illinois
10
Great birthday experience
Pros:

Everything was soo beautiful Davi, Hannah and Judie took great care of us and we had an amazing time

2026-06-06 via Tripadvisor
L
lorijS4992VV Couples
10
Good food good service
Pros:

Just & Myra were the best. Everyone made us feel welcome.

2026-06-05 via Tripadvisor
S
Soniaschleicher Friends getaway Redondo Beach, California
10
Great hotel!
Pros:

Went with Mom friends for mother's Day weekend and we all had a great time! Luigi at front desk took great care of us giving us recs on where to eat and also helped us check in early which was amazing! We also had the Mother's Day tipsy tea and Sarah & Judie really made us feel so special!! The hotel is also located in an excellent area, can walk everywhere!! We would definitely come stay again!! Thank you to the staff they were amazing!!

2026-06-03 via Tripadvisor
M
Marleen solo_traveller be
8
Pros:

location

Cons:

very loud lobby; not so great room. it was okay but pricy for what it was.

2026-06-02 via Nuitee
A
ajc002019 Family Aurora, Illinois
10
Lovely Staff!
Pros:

I love the ambience here. And Judie and Mayra took such good care of us … especially my 90 year old mom. Lovely people!

2026-05-30 via Tripadvisor
1
113giseleu Friends getaway
10
The Gwen Tea Party
Pros:

Had the most wonderful time at the Tea party but more specifically enjoyed being hosted by Judie, Sarah and Cecil. What an experience. And the food....amazing!Highly recommend.

2026-05-30 via Tripadvisor
E
Excursion36151489753 Couples Burnsville, North Carolina
10
Everything you could want in addition to being a luxury hotel, great shopping, location and dining options
Pros:

A lovely hotel that can provide lots of shopping and dining options without having to leave an undercover area if the weather is inclement. We were also very pleased with the friendly people working at the hotel from the very friendly and professional Luigi at the front desk who checked us in and provided detailed information of my status benefits to virtually everyone we have met so far. The waitress that served us on our first evening while we enjoyed some delicious food and a bottle of wine was also outstanding and very friendly. Sorry I can’t remember her name but her name began with an M.

2026-05-24 via Tripadvisor
K
kourtneyk548 Family
10
Luigi is the star of the show!
Pros:

Luigi helped us at The Gwen and thank goodness he did! Upon arrival he made sure our check in was seamless, and gave phenomenal recommendations — even was able to secure last minute reservations! Beautiful hotels, beautiful rooms, and exceptional service

2026-05-22 via Tripadvisor
R
Roam63674336158 Family
10
Luigi was very friendly and helpful at check in.
Pros:

Nice space, friendly staff quiet room

2026-05-22 via Tripadvisor
K
kristenkS7749OC Solo travel
10
A Century of Chicago History and the Hospitality to Match
Pros:

Walking into The Gwen, I was already impressed by the building itself. Art Deco facade, Michigan Avenue address, nearly a century of Chicago history holding the whole thing up. But what made the check-in experience genuinely memorable was Luigi.

He got me checked in early, which already sets the tone for a trip, but it was the way he did it. Warm, genuinely hospitable, great personality. The kind of person who makes you feel like the hotel is happy you’re there, not just processing your arrival.

That warmth carried through the entire stay, and I think that’s exactly why this property holds a Michelin Key. It’s not just the address or the architecture. It’s the way the people here make you feel.

My room had a view of Michigan Avenue and a soaking tub I did not want to leave. Upstairs at The Gwen is where I’d tell anyone to spend their first evening. The cocktail menu is lovely (they have many options for Mexico lovers with tequila and mezcal). That plus fire pits and a city skyline - yes please.

The gym matters to me more than most things when I travel. I’m a health coach and I work out every day, so a fully equipped fitness center isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s non-negotiable. The Gwen’s gym had everything I needed without having to improvise or skip anything.

If you’re booking Chicago, start here. Thank you for a lovely stay!

2026-05-22 via Tripadvisor
E
Escape574378 Family South Haven, Van Buren County, Michigan
10
We highly recommend The Gwen Hotel for your next visit to Chicago!
Pros:

We stay at The Gwen whenever we stay in Chicago. The location is perfect for sightseeing and visiting favorite restaurants and bars.
All staff members, from the servers in the restaurant to people at the front desk, treat us with the utmost professionalism and care. The rooms are gorgeous, with large, luxurious bathrooms, and the beds are extra comfy.
Good food is important to us, and every meal we've eaten at Upstairs at the Gwen has been outstanding. The menu is seasonal, with a wide selection of entrées. The atmosphere is festive, with a lovely bar, and comfortable seating.
During a recent visit we enjoyed drinks and snacks in the evening at the bar where Claudia took great care of us, and we had a delicious breakfast the next morning, served by Meredith. The Belgian Waffle with fresh berries and citrus mascarpone was delightful.
We're already looking forward to our next visit to the Gwen!

2026-05-17 via Tripadvisor